Auk Village Campground

4.42

101 reviews

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Featured in:Best Campgrounds Alaska Family-Friendly Campgrounds Alaska Beach Camping Alaska +2 more

Quick Facts

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Open May 1 - Septemb...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Tongass National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Open May 1 - Septemb...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Tongass National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Auk Village Campground

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Recreation Use Fee is $20 per night during Peak Season (May 1 - September 29). Fees vary by location and additional reservation service fees apply...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-586-8800mramonda@fs.fed.us

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What Campers Say

4.42

Recommended

Based on 101 reviews

23 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefulsites

Some mention

noise

"Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's stunning natural beauty, proximity to Auk Bay, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Privacy and noise levels vary depending on site selection and timing of the visit."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Auk Village Campground

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road, Juneau, AK 99801, USA

Driving directionsFrom the cruise ship terminal on South Franklin Street in downtown Juneau, head northwest along the waterfront. South Franklin Street becomes Marine Way, then Egan Drive, named for William A. Egan (1914 - 1984), first governor of the State of Alaska. Egan Drive becomes Glacier Highway at Milepost 9.4, then Juneau Veterans Memorial Highway from Milepost 12.1. At about 14 miles, exit west on Old Glacier Highway through Auke Village Recreation Area. Toward the end of the recreation area turn left on Pt. Louisa Road, and the campground entrance is on the left side of the road.

Roads are accessible year-round and suitable even for sedans. "Gates open to vehicles at all times." Roads are paved and easy to navigate, though occasional high traffic or noise from nearby day-use areas might affect the experience.

Nearby places

Juneau (15 miles

approximately 25 minutes by car), Auke Bay (1.5 miles

approximately 5 minutes by car)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials, are available at nearby Auke Bay (approximately 1.5 miles away).

Best Time to Camp at Auk Village Campground

Summer brings a symphony of rain that nurtures the emerald forest canopy, creating that quintessential temperate rainforest atmosphere Alaska is famous for. While gray skies and passing storms are common companions during the warmer months, they only add to the dramatic beauty of this coastal setting. The lush greenery reaches its peak during these wet summer days, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, with heavy snowfall blanketing the forest in pristine white and temperatures dropping to create a true northern experience.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open May–Sep with summer peak; reviews overall positive for summer visits.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Open into late Sept; fall brings more rain and fewer visitors though scenery remains strong.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 1; late-spring weather can be variable but trails and access are available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Closed for reservations outside May 1–Sep 29; minimal winter operations.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01, 2025 - September 29, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 1 - September 29 (Peak Season). Closed for reservations outside of this window.

About Auk Village Campground

Nestled high above the sparkling waters of Auk Bay, this intimate campground serves as your gateway to Southeast Alaska's most breathtaking adventures. Surrounded by towering western hemlocks and majestic Sitka spruces, campers find themselves perfectly positioned between the conveniences of nearby Juneau and the wild beauty of Alaska's coastal wilderness. Whether you're catching an early ferry from the nearby Auke Bay Terminal, setting out to explore massive glaciers, or hoping to spot humpback whales breaching in the distance, this peaceful forest retreat offers the ideal basecamp for your Alaskan journey.

Auk Village Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent and RV camping. There are no group or cabin-specific accommodations.

Historical SignificanceThis campground rests along a storied route bearing the name of William A. Egan, the visionary leader who became Alaska's first governor and helped shape the Last Frontier into the 49th state. Its proximity to Juneau, Alaska's capital city, connects visitors to centuries of rich cultural heritage—from the indigenous Tlingit peoples who first called this region home to the gold rush prospectors who transformed these shores into a bustling frontier. Today, campers can feel this living history while enjoying modern access to one of America's most unique state capitals.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings a symphony of rain that nurtures the emerald forest canopy, creating that quintessential temperate rainforest atmosphere Alaska is famous for. While gray skies and passing storms are common companions during the warmer months, they only add to the dramatic beauty of this coastal setting. The lush greenery reaches its peak during these wet summer days, while winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, with heavy snowfall blanketing the forest in pristine white and temperatures dropping to create a true northern experience.

ElevationPerched at an undisclosed elevation above sea level, the campground's hillside location provides the perfect vantage point for taking in the surrounding natural splendor while remaining sheltered within the protective embrace of the coastal forest.

Natural Features and SceneryFrom your forest sanctuary above Auk Bay, the world unfolds in layers of stunning natural beauty. Ancient western hemlocks and Sitka spruces create a verdant cathedral overhead, their moss-draped branches filtering sunlight into ethereal beams. Beyond the treeline, the snow-capped peaks of the Chilkat Range pierce the sky in a dramatic display of granite and ice, while the ocean stretches endlessly toward the horizon, its surface dancing with reflected light. This is bear country—these magnificent creatures regularly patrol the area, reminding visitors that they're guests in one of North America's last great wildernesses. Every view captures the raw, untamed essence of coastal Alaska.

Geological RegionThe campground occupies a remarkable position in Southeast Alaska's complex coastal ecosystem, where ancient forests meet the sea. Dominated by western hemlock and Sitka spruce—the giants of the temperate rainforest—this elevated site above Auk Bay showcases the region's dramatic geological story. The majestic Chilkat Range provides a stunning backdrop, its peaks carved by millennia of glacial activity, while the protected waters below tell tales of fjords and channels sculpted by ice ages past. Wildlife thrives in this diverse habitat, with bears serving as the most impressive regular visitors, moving between forest and shoreline in their eternal search for salmon and berries.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

3:00 PM

Check-out

2:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum of 14 consecutive nights per stay.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Sites have varying capacity depending on dimensions (14 feet - 35 feet). Suggests a limit of 1 vehicle and standard tent/RV setups per site.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are generally spaced out with buffers of dense trees. "Sites were spaced out, lots of trees on sites.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through the contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites can be reserved same-day if available and are accessible on a first-come-first-served basis during Peak Season.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before check-in. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (beginning midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) entail forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee.

AccessibilityThe campground features bear-proof food lockers, accessible trails to the ocean and Pt. Louisa. However, detailed ADA compliance features are not specified.

Site SizeCampsite sizes range from 14' to 35', accommodating both tents and RVs.

PrivacyReviews highlight a mix of privacy levels depending on the site. Some sites (e.g., #3) are more private and closer to the ocean, while others like #2 face frequent foot traffic.

Total Campsites11 campsites

Recommended SitesSite #3 is closest to the ocean and offers views. Site #2 provides amazing views but is heavily trafficked. Site #6 offers privacy and easy access to trails.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers a wide array of activities, including fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, and kayaking. Visitors can also engage in berry picking, boating, trail walks, and picnicking. The proximity to the ocean allows for additional activities like glacier viewing.

HikingHiking trails are accessible from the parking lot, leading campers to the ocean and nearby Day Use areas. Trails are well-maintained and suitable for casual walking.

FishingFishing opportunities are available in the nearby Auk Bay, where commercial operators also offer sport fishing excursions.

BikingThe area supports bicycling activities, but no dedicated bike paths or trails are specified.

BoatingBoating activities such as kayaking, motor boating, and sailing are popular in Auk Bay. Rentals are available from commercial operators.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as bears, dolphins, eagles, and other species can frequently be observed. Bears are particularly notable in the area.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & Alerts"Bears frequent the area; keep food in vehicles or bear-proof containers." Wildlife encounters are common, including bears and squirrels. Noise disturbances from nearby day-use areas have been reported.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food lockers available at every site for safety.

Fire PolicyCampers encouraged to bring their own firewood. Fire rings are available at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours not explicitly mentioned, but noise complaints suggest disturbances until 1-4 AM during peak periods.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Juneau, AK (15 miles away), which includes hospitals, police stations, and fire services.

Trash & RecyclingA central dumpster is available for trash disposal, but no specific recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesClose to Auk Bay and trails leading to the ocean. "Very close to the water with well-maintained trails."

Camp HostHost information not explicitly mentioned.

Weather at Auk Village Campground

Reviews

4.4

101 reviews

Recommended

Auk Village Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are generally positive, highlighting the campground's stunning natural beauty, proximity to Auk Bay, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Privacy and noise levels vary depending on site selection and timing of the visit.

Review Summaries

Based on 101 reviews

What Campers Love

- 'Amazing campground... beautiful.' - 'Felt safe as a lone female camper... very peaceful on a Sunday evening.' - 'Sites were spaced out with lots of trees.' - 'Great views of wildlife... loved the...

Based on 101 reviews

Common Concerns

- Noise issues: 'Extremely loud neighbors and screaming children.' - Firewood availability: 'No wood available despite being promised in the reservation.' - Site cleanliness: 'Found garbage and...

Based on 101 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Choose Site #3 for its ocean proximity and light. - Bring your own firewood. - Reserve early as there are only 11 sites.

Based on 101 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, but some visitors complain about noise during holiday weekends. Winter use is minimal due to operational closures.

Based on 101 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Firewood provided and amazing views of wildlife.' - 'Quiet, private, and nice location on the water.' - 'Great price for what you get!'

Based on 101 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

- Site #3: Limited cell service but close to the ocean and private. - Site #2: Amazing views but low privacy due to foot traffic. - Site #11: Spacious and surrounded by trees.

Based on 101 reviews