How much does camping cost at Mendenhall Campground?

Camping fees at Mendenhall Campground range from $20-$36/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mendenhall Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Mendenhall Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mendenhall Campground before I book?

Yes! Mendenhall Campground has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mendenhall Campground?

Mendenhall Campground is open May 15 to September 14. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mendenhall Campground?

Yes, Mendenhall Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Mendenhall Campground?

Fire policies at Mendenhall Campground: Campers are encouraged to bring their own firewood.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Mendenhall Campground have?

Mendenhall Campground has 69 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mendenhall Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Mendenhall Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Mendenhall Campground?

Mendenhall Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Sewer Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mendenhall Campground?

Popular activities at Mendenhall Campground include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mendenhall Campground

4.18

192 reviews

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsTent CampingSummer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Alaska

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

100 ft

Price

$20 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

69 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Juneau Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

100 ft

Price

$20 - $36/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

69 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Full HookupsShowers

Book on Juneau Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Mendenhall Campground

$20.00 - $36.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Sewer, Water, Electric: $36.00; Standard Non-Electric, Basic Site: $20.00; WALK TO - Basic Site: $20.00; Water, Electric: $34.00. Plus Recreation.gov...

Hike and Bike Site Fee$20.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-586-8800

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Mendenhall Campground

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Nearby places

Juneau, AK (13 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive).

Driving directionsBy ferry: turn right out of the Ferry Terminal parking lot. Drive 1.7 miles to DeHart's Store above Auke Bay marinas. Take a left turn onto Back Loop Road. Travel 2.5 miles to Montana Creek Road. Turn left onto Montana Creek Road. Drive 0.3 miles to Skater's Cabin Road. The campground is 0.3 miles down the road. From the airport: go 0.1 mile to the junction of Yandukin Shell Simmons Drive. Turn left on Shell Simmons Drive and travel 0.3 miles to stoplight at the intersection of Old Glacier Highway. Turn left on Old Glacier Highway and travel 0.5 mile to the stoplight at the intersection of Egan Drive. Continue on Mendenhall Loop Road 2.2 miles to the intersection of Back Loop Road. Turn left on Backloop Road. Continue 1.4 miles to the intersection of Montana Creek Road. Turn right and travel 0.3 miles to Skater's Cabin Road. Turn right and travel 0.3 miles to campground.

Weather at Mendenhall Campground

Current alerts(6)

Bears frequent the area; keep food and anything with a scent in vehicles or bear-proof containers that are available for free for backpackers (ask the host).
Campground reservations may be made the same day as arrival, if a site is available.
Campsite check-in time is 3:00pm. Check-out time is 2:00pm on the day of departure.
Commercial outfitters or guides not allowed; institutional outfitters (universities, schools and clubs) may require a special use permit before making reservations; contact the Juneau Ranger District at 907-586-8800.

Best Time to Camp at Mendenhall Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, most accessible experience at Mendenhall — long daylight (up to ~18+ hours in June), mild temperatures (generally 50–65°F / 10–18°C), and full facility/boat-launch availability. Hiking to Nugget Falls, kayaking on Mendenhall Lake, guided glacier/boat tours, and abundant wildlife viewing (including coastal and salmon-run activity) are all at their peak. Expect moderate to heavy crowds in July–early August, so reserve a site (campground reservations are open May 15–Sept Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Best season: 50–65°F, long daylight, full facility access and peak trail/boat activity.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 15 to September 14 for reservations. The facility is accessible out-of-season, but booking is unavailable.

About Mendenhall Campground

Mendenhall Campground sits in the Tongass National Forest near Juneau, offering views of Mendenhall Glacier and lake access. Operated by the Juneau Ranger District, this mid-sized campground provides tent, RV, and primitive camping options with full hookups, showers, and flush toilets. Campers hike to Nugget Falls, watch for wildlife along salmon runs, and explore the surrounding rainforest during long summer days.

Mendenhall Campground accommodates various camping styles, including RV camping, tent camping, and walk-in backpacker sites. Primitive camping is also offered.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, most accessible experience at Mendenhall — long daylight (up to ~18+ hours in June), mild temperatures (generally 50–65°F / 10–18°C), and full facility/boat-launch availability. Hiking to Nugget Falls, kayaking on Mendenhall Lake, guided glacier/boat tours, and abundant wildlife viewing (including coastal and salmon-run activity) are all at their peak. Expect moderate to heavy crowds in July–early August, so reserve a site (campground reservations are open May 15–Sept Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation100 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a glacial moraine landscape at 100 feet elevation, where spruce-hemlock rainforest meets Mendenhall Lake's shoreline. The glacier calves into the lake's far end, visible from many sites. Nugget Falls thunders down a nearby cliff face. Surrounding peaks rise between 4,000 and 7,000 feet. In late summer, wild blueberries carpet the forest floor. Expect mist and the smell of wet hemlock. This is temperate rainforest, not alpine tundra.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging is available within the campground; camping accommodations include RV sites, tent sites, walk-in backpacker sites, and primitive camping setups.

Programs & ActivitiesNo explicit mention of cultural or educational programs is available.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site type.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or mobile app.

AccessibilityThe campground is well-equipped to accommodate campers with disabilities. 56 sites are fully accessible, and the facilities include accessible vault and flush toilets, shower facilities, and water faucets.

Site SizeThe sites are spacious with plenty of room for RVs, tents, and parking, offering varied options from pull-through RV spots to walk-in backpacker sites. "Our camp site was spacious and level.

PrivacySites provide varying levels of privacy. Some are secluded, while others are closer together, encouraging family groups. "Camp sites provide a good amount of privacy, also. You're not crammed on top of other people.

Total Campsites69 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites along the lake for glacier views and privacy. Be aware of cold winds at glacier-facing sites.

Best CampsitesReviews highlight site B26 in the backpacker section. Glacier-facing sites provide the best views but come with wind. Secluded sites toward the back of loops offer more privacy, though spacing varies throughout the campground.

Need help booking Mendenhall Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Mendenhall Campground provides a wide range of amenities and accommodations designed to cater to various types of campers, including RV travelers, tent campers, and backpackers. There are 69 campsites, 56 of which are fully accessible. Nine are full-service RV sites with electric, water and sewer hookups, and nine are partial-service RV sites with electric and water hookups. Seven sites are designated for walk-to backpackers. All campsites are equipped with picnic tables, tent pads, and combination fire rings with grills. Potable water is available through accessible water faucets. The campground offers accessible vault toilets and two accessible flush toilets, along with shower facilities. Additional facilities such as a dump station, trash dumpsters, and bear-proof containers are provided. User reviews highlight the campground's well-maintained facilities but also note occasional issues such as theft and noisy campers.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Sewer hookups

Flush toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Mendenhall Campground offers diverse recreational activities for all types of campers, from hiking scenic trails to wildlife viewing near Mendenhall Lake. The nearby Mendenhall Glacier adds to the appeal with its stunning vistas and outdoor exploration opportunities. Trails within the campground feature interpretive signs offering insights into the area's ecology and wildlife.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredLockers are spacious and provide secure storage to mitigate bear risks.

Fire PolicyCampers are encouraged to bring their own firewood.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are provided on-site, and bear-proof containers are available to store items safely. "Bear-proof containers that are provided for free (ask the host)."

Cell CoverageUser reviews mention cell phone coverage is generally reliable, making it convenient for campers to stay connected. "No problems with cell phone coverage."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

192 reviews

Satisfactory

Mendenhall Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Mendenhall Campground are mixed, with many praising its scenic views, well-maintained facilities, and spacious campsites. However, concerns about theft, noise, and some staff interactions have been raised.

Review Summaries

Based on 192 reviews

What Campers Love

- Scenic views of Mendenhall Glacier and lake - Clean and well-maintained facilities - Accessible amenities - Spacious campsites

Based on 192 reviews

Common Concerns

- Noise from campers and helicopters - Theft incidents (food, gear, and hammocks) - Inconsistent staff behavior - Shower limitations (timing and cleanliness) - Reservation system challenges

Based on 192 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific feedback includes praise for spacious and glacier-facing sites but also notes issues like theft and proximity to noisy neighbors. Site #009 offers views of the glacier, while site #053...

Based on 192 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring your own firewood - Use bear-proof containers for food storage - Choose glacier-facing sites for breathtaking views but be prepared for colder winds - Opt for secluded sites for more...

Based on 192 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are generally favorable, highlighting the beauty of the campground and its accessibility to recreational activities. Winter reviews are sparse, with limited details on usability due to...

Based on 192 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Amazing campground, one of the best I have ever reserved." - Daniel "Shower rooms may be closed. You can check on recreation.gov app." - Alisa Perkins "Restrooms were well maintained." - Rachel...

Based on 192 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are praised, with users highlighting the fully accessible sites and pathways. "The campground is well-equipped to accommodate campers with disabilities."

Based on 192 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Mixed reviews on pet policies. Some users appreciate pet-friendly accommodations, while others note issues with enforcement of leash rules. "People need to keep their dogs on a leash!! It needs to be...

Based on 192 reviews

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Go if

You want developed amenities near Mendenhall Glacier with hiking and wildlife viewing during Alaska's long summer days.

Skip if

You need 24-hour gate access or want to avoid bear-active areas and potential campground noise.

Nearby Campgrounds

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

John Muir Cabin sits at 1,550 feet in the Tongass National Forest foothills above Juneau, accessible only by trail. Operated by the Juneau Ranger District, this remote rental cabin offers propane heat, vault toilets, and sweeping views of Auke Bay and surrounding peaks. Visitors hike in for wildlife viewing and subalpine solitude during the summer season.

Mendenhall Campground

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Mendenhall Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Mendenhall Campground

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Mendenhall Campground

Planning Tips

About Mendenhall Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mendenhall Campground?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

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Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Mendenhall Campground

Current alerts(6)

Best Time to Camp at Mendenhall Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Mendenhall Campground?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews