Harris River Campground

4.60

10 reviews

PO BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921

Quick Facts

262 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Open May 22, 2025 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

262 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

8 campsites

Season

Open May 22, 2025 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Harris River Campground

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Facility rates are $8 for both Standard Nonelectric and Tent Only Nonelectric sites during peak season (May 22, 2025 - September 7, 2025).

Standard Site Fee$8.00

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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What Campers Say

4.60

Top-Rated

Based on 10 reviews

7 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacious

"User reviews generally praise Harris River Campground for its tranquility, cleanliness, and proximity to local attractions such as the ferry terminal. The gravel campground and lack of potable water are mentioned as downsides."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921

Harris River Campground

PO BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921

Driving directionsFrom Ketchikan take the Inter-Island Ferry to Hollis on Prince of Wales Island. From Hollis, take Highway 924 for approximately 10 miles. The campground will be on the left (south) side of the road just past the Hydaburg Road junction adjacent to the Harris River.

The campground is easily accessible via paved Highway 924 from the Hollis Ferry Terminal (10 miles away) and Craig/Klawock area (20 miles away). Parking spurs are narrow and perpendicular to the road, meaning large RVs may face difficulty.

Nearby places

Hollis Ferry Terminal (10 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive), Craig/Klawock area (20 miles)

Nearby supplies

Prince of Wales Island offers nearby access to boat rentals, fishing supplies, and other conveniences a short drive away. Specific distances are not listed.

Best Time to Camp at Harris River Campground

From May through September, Harris River Campground basks in Alaska's most inviting weather, with temperatures hovering comfortably between 53°F and 65°F—perfect for outdoor adventures without extreme heat or cold. Summer visitors are rewarded with up to 15 glorious hours of daylight, extending exploration time well into the evening. While the temperate rainforest occasionally lives up to its name with a 25% chance of rain, these gentle showers keep the forest lush and rivers flowing, often creating magical misty mornings. The typically dry humidity ensures comfortable camping conditions, making peak season ideal for experiencing all the campground has to offer.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open May–Sept; temperatures 53–65°F and peak usability in summer make it ideal season.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.0 / 5

Accessible into early Sept; reviews note off-peak solitude but visitation drops after Labor Day.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 22 (late spring); weather can be pleasant but true spring access is limited.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is closed outside May 22–Sept 7.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 22, 2025 - September 7, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 22, 2025 to September 7, 2025.
Current Alerts: Roads may be under construction; check local updates for accessibility.

About Harris River Campground

Nestled deep within the ancient Tongass National Forest, Harris River Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. Here, where the pristine Harris River winds through towering evergreens, campers wake to the sound of rushing water and the calls of native birds. Days unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into the river's promising waters, explore winding forest trails that reveal nature's secrets at every turn, or simply sit quietly as bears fish for salmon and bald eagles soar overhead. While embracing rustic simplicity with pit toilets and no running water or electrical hookups, the campground provides essential comforts including accessible campsites, sturdy picnic tables, campfire rings for evening gatherings, and regular trash collection—everything needed for an immersive forest retreat.

Harris River Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent camping and standard non-electric sites. Accessible campsites are a notable feature, alongside the option for primitive camping without water or electric hookups.

Historical SignificanceEvery trail at Harris River tells a story of conservation and community. The Harris River Interpretive Trail invites visitors to discover the fascinating world of river restoration, where informative displays reveal ongoing habitat management experiments that help sustain the region's legendary salmon runs. Meanwhile, the One Duck Trail carries its own legacy—lovingly carved from the wilderness by the Youth Conservation Corps in the 1980s, this pathway stands as a testament to young environmental stewards who helped make this pristine landscape accessible to future generations. Walking these trails connects modern visitors to decades of careful forest management and the enduring human connection to this remarkable ecosystem.

Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Harris River Campground basks in Alaska's most inviting weather, with temperatures hovering comfortably between 53°F and 65°F—perfect for outdoor adventures without extreme heat or cold. Summer visitors are rewarded with up to 15 glorious hours of daylight, extending exploration time well into the evening. While the temperate rainforest occasionally lives up to its name with a 25% chance of rain, these gentle showers keep the forest lush and rivers flowing, often creating magical misty mornings. The typically dry humidity ensures comfortable camping conditions, making peak season ideal for experiencing all the campground has to offer.

ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation within the coastal forest ecosystem, where the gentle terrain makes exploration accessible to campers of all abilities.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in one of Earth's last great temperate rainforests, where ancient Sitka spruces and western hemlocks create a living cathedral along the Harris River's banks. The landscape shifts dramatically from dense forest groves to mysterious muskeg meadows, each microhabitat supporting its own community of life. Morning mists often drift through the moss-draped branches, while afternoon sun filters through the canopy, illuminating the river's crystal-clear pools. This is prime wildlife territory—black bears emerge from the forest to feast on spawning salmon, while bald eagles perch majestically in riverside snags. The very air seems alive here, rich with the scents of cedar and fresh rain, creating an atmosphere that rejuvenates the soul.

Geological RegionHarris River Campground claims its place on Prince of Wales Island, a crown jewel within the vast Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest. This temperate rainforest wilderness encompasses a breathtaking tapestry of deep fjords carved by ancient glaciers, towering mountain peaks that pierce low-hanging clouds, and a labyrinth of coastal waterways that shelter countless islands. The Tongass wraps around the famous Inside Passage like a verdant cloak, creating one of the planet's most biologically rich ecosystems. From mysterious muskeg bogs that have accumulated over millennia to dynamic tidal zones where forest meets sea, this geological wonderland offers campers a front-row seat to the raw power and delicate balance of Southeast Alaska's natural forces.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time not explicitly stated.

Check-out

Check-out time not explicitly stated.

Stay Limit

Maximum 14 consecutive nights during a visit.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground layout includes a loop area with gravel roads and trails connecting sites and facilities.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityInformation about first-come, first-serve or walk-up sites is not explicitly stated.

Cancellation PolicyCustomers may cancel a reservation anytime before their arrival date for a refund, minus a $10 cancellation fee and any reservation fees. Late cancellations incur additional fees such as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.

AccessibilityAccessible campsites are equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings. Accessible pit toilets are provided to ensure usability for all visitors.

Site SizeSpots were big & private.

PrivacySpots were big & private.

Total Campsites8 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 007 has a picnic table and clean outhouse access. Site 008 is described as spacious and private with well-maintained facilities.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Harris River Campground provides recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Highlighted trails include the Harris River Trail and Twentymile Spur Trail, which pass along the Harris River and lead to beaver ponds. The Harris River Interpretive Trail nearby offers educational insights on river restoration work.

HikingHiking trails are popular among visitors, with notable ones like the Harris River Trail and Twentymile Spur Trail offering scenic experiences. The Twentymile Spur Trail ends at a set of beaver ponds, adding unique interest to the hike.

FishingFishing is a major draw for visitors, with user reviews noting the "good fishing in the river." The Tongass National Forest features spawning salmon, which could enhance fishing opportunities.

BoatingPrince of Wales Island offers boat rentals and fishing supplies a short drive away, enabling boating activities.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing includes opportunities to see eagles, bears, and spawning salmon. "Always a great stop to get out and stretch, use the restrooms, hear and view Harris River rushing under the campgrounds foot bridge," notes one user review.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsNearby attractions include the Harris River Interpretive Trail, which provides information on river restoration work and habitat management experiments.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is noted; food and trash storage is mandatory in approved containers.

Active AlertsRoads may be under construction; check local updates for accessibility.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within the provided campfire rings.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours details not provided.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are likely found in Craig/Klawock area, 20 miles from the campground.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is provided on-site as part of the amenities.

Water FeaturesLocated along the Harris River, with fishing opportunities and a footbridge crossing the river to access picnic areas.

Camp HostNo park host was available during Amanda Hamell's visit in 2020.

Weather at Harris River Campground

Reviews

4.6

10 reviews

Top-Rated

Harris River Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally praise Harris River Campground for its tranquility, cleanliness, and proximity to local attractions such as the ferry terminal. The gravel campground and lack of potable water are mentioned as downsides.

Review Summaries

Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes the campground's cleanliness ("Bathrooms were clean & well maintained"), spacious and private spots ("Spots were big & private"), and accessibility to trails and the ferry...

Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of potable water on-site ("No water available") and limited facilities, such as picnic tables only being available at half the sites.

Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend preparing for the lack of water by bringing supplies and being mindful of bear country regulations to store food properly. Arriving early to secure sites with picnic tables is...

Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is less visited overall, with user quotes like "We were the only ones there" during the off-peak season following Labor Day. The campground's peak usability aligns with summer months,...

Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bathrooms were clean & well maintained." "No park host, no water." "Very convenient to catch the morning ferry with only 15 minute drive."

Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback mentions campsite 007 as lacking water and picnic tables, leading to a rating of 3 stars. Campsite 008 is praised for its cleanliness and privacy, with a rating of 4 stars.

Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible pit toilets and campsites are positively mentioned in user reviews. Features such as wide, private spots enhance the experience for campers with disabilities.

Based on 10 reviews

0 review