Signal Creek Campground
4.0326 reviewsTONGASS-KETCHIKAN
Quick Facts
Price
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
25 campsites
Season
Open May 21 - Octobe...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$10/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
25 campsites
Season
Open May 21 - Octobe...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsSignal Creek Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation use fees are $10 per night for standard non-electric sites during peak season.
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$10.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider907-225-2148
What Campers Say
4.03
Satisfactory
Based on 26 reviews
15 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanlakesites
Some mention
noise
"User reviews highlighted the campground's natural beauty, the simplicity of its facilities, and its affordability. However, issues like flooding at certain sites, noise from foot traffic, and limited maintenance of restrooms were noted."
Fees & Passes at Signal Creek Campground
$10/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Reservations can be cancelled any time before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations incur a...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Tongass National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Signal Creek Campground
Summer brings Signal Creek to life with mild, comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration, though visitors should come prepared for Ketchikan's legendary rainfall that keeps the forest lush and vibrant. The frequent showers create a mystical atmosphere as mist drifts through the towering trees, while brief sunny breaks reveal the forest in stunning clarity. Winter transforms the landscape into a quieter, more intimate setting, with freezing temperatures and heavier precipitation creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and dramatic scenery.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 21 - October 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 21 - October 31.
About Signal Creek Campground
Nestled within the enchanting Ward Lake Recreation Area of Tongass National Forest, Signal Creek Campground offers an authentic Alaskan rainforest experience where towering evergreens meet pristine waters. This tranquil retreat welcomes groups of up to 10 people per campsite, providing the perfect basecamp for adventures that range from casting a line in Ward Lake's crystal-clear waters to paddling through morning mist in your kayak. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings for evening gatherings, while seasonal drinking water and vault toilets ensure comfort during your wilderness stay. Whether you're hiking moss-draped trails, spotting eagles soaring overhead, or simply breathing in the forest's ancient rhythms, Signal Creek delivers the quintessential Pacific Northwest camping experience.
Signal Creek Campground offers standard nonelectric campsites suitable for tent and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceSignal Creek sits within a landscape that tells the story of Alaska's natural heritage and human connection to the land. As part of the iconic Inside Passage, this area has served as a vital corridor for indigenous peoples, explorers, and modern travelers alike. The Ward Lake Recreation Area stands as a testament to conservation efforts that have preserved these ancient forests for future generations, allowing visitors to experience the same awe-inspiring wilderness that has captivated people for thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings Signal Creek to life with mild, comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor exploration, though visitors should come prepared for Ketchikan's legendary rainfall that keeps the forest lush and vibrant. The frequent showers create a mystical atmosphere as mist drifts through the towering trees, while brief sunny breaks reveal the forest in stunning clarity. Winter transforms the landscape into a quieter, more intimate setting, with freezing temperatures and heavier precipitation creating a wonderland for those seeking solitude and dramatic scenery.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the gentle murmur of Signal Creek as it winds through your campsite, its clear waters reflecting the cathedral-like canopy of ancient western hemlock and Sitka spruce overhead. The campground's prime location along Ward Lake's shoreline creates a stunning backdrop where forest meets water, offering ever-changing vistas as morning fog lifts to reveal mirror-like reflections. This old-growth rainforest sanctuary provides intimate encounters with nature, from the haunting call of bald eagles perched in towering snags to the possibility of spotting black bears foraging along the water's edge. Every corner reveals moss-draped logs, fern-filled understories, and the kind of primeval beauty that makes the Tongass unforgettable.
Geological RegionSignal Creek Campground occupies a privileged position within the Tongass National Forest, America's largest temperate rainforest and a geological marvel spanning 17 million acres. This extraordinary ecosystem thrives where ancient glacial valleys meet the sea, creating a landscape defined by dramatic fjords, countless islands, and rivers that have carved their paths through bedrock over millennia. The campground's setting showcases the region's signature old-growth forest, where western hemlock and Sitka spruce giants have stood for centuries, their roots intertwined with a complex understory that represents one of the planet's most productive and biodiverse temperate ecosystems.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit accessibility features were mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeEach campsite can accommodate up to 10 people.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across sites. Some sites, especially those near trails or water pumps, may experience foot traffic and noise. Specific sites like #7 and #14 have been highlighted for their proximity to activity centers and their flooding potential.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites #3, #4, #6, and #7 during the rainy season due to flooding issues and noise from foot traffic and water pumps. Sites #12 and #14 are better choices for staying dry.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Checkout time is 2PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Signal Creek Campground's sites can accommodate up to 10 people.
Groups
Group camping options were not detailed in the source.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are distributed along Signal Creek and near Ward Lake. The campground includes gravel parking spurs and hand pumps for water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 21 - October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled any time before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. Ward Lake and its surrounding trails are key highlights that attract visitors.
Hiking
The Ward Lake Recreation Area features seven trails, with the Ward Lake Nature Trail being a popular 1.3-mile loop. User reviews praised the hiking options, describing trails as great for exploration and suitable for adventurers looking for more challenging paths, like the Perseverance Trail.Fishing
Freshwater fishing is a key attraction, with Ward Lake providing opportunities to catch local fish species. Specific details on fish types were not mentioned.Biking
Biking opportunities are noted as enjoyable, with trails near the lake offering suitable terrain.Boating
The lake supports non-motorized boating activities like kayaking and canoeing. Facilities for docking or launching were not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable activity, with species like eagles, bears, and salmon commonly sighted. The campground's location in an old-growth temperate rainforest enhances the wildlife experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed, though the campground remains open year-round.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are available on the lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours apply.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are prevalent, particularly in late summer. Flooding occurs at certain campsites during heavy rainfall. Dead fish smell may be noticeable during salmon spawning season.
Weather at Signal Creek Campground
44
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Slight rain showers
Precipitation: 1.2%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 86%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 17.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Very Light Rain - (1.20% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain showers
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services include medical facilities and police in Ketchikan, approximately 7 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21 - October 31.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available to maintain cleanliness and safety. However, maintenance, such as trash removal, occasionally needs attention according to user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Ward Lake and Signal Creek, offering fishing and kayaking opportunities.
Common complaintsFlooding at sites near the lake and the middle of the campground during heavy rain. Lack of toilet paper in outhouses. Noise from children playing with water pumps and trail traffic.
HostA park attendant lives on-site and is generally available.
Campground Map
TONGASS-KETCHIKAN
Driving directionsFrom the State ferry terminal, take Tongass Highway north 4.8 miles to milepost 7. Turn right onto Revila Road. Go 1.4 miles and turn right at the Ward Lake Road Intersection. Travel 1.1 miles past Ward Lake Day Use Area to the entrance sign for Signal Creek Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads leading from Tongass Highway and Revila Road. Seasonal accessibility may vary due to weather conditions.Nearby places
Ketchikan (7 miles, approx. 15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries and camping gear, can be found in Ketchikan, which is approximately 7 miles away.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
26 reviews
Signal Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlighted the campground's natural beauty, the simplicity of its facilities, and its affordability. However, issues like flooding at certain sites, noise from foot traffic, and limited maintenance of restrooms were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the scenic setting, proximity to Ward Lake, and the cleanliness of campsites. The availability of bear-proof storage and the presence of an on-site host were appreciated. "Wonderful...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints included flooding at specific campsites, particularly #3, #4, #6, and #7. Some users reported noise issues due to nearby trails. "No TP in the outhouse," noted one user, pointing...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Frequent tips include bringing tarps due to high rainfall, avoiding low-lying sites prone to flooding, and ensuring proper food storage to avoid wildlife encounters.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and early fall bring heavy rains, creating muddy and flooded conditions at several campsites. Users recommend visiting during drier weeks.
Based on 26 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The park attendant was on-site most of the time," "Bring a tarp to put over your tent," "We woke up with the lake in our campsite," "Beautiful place to park, designated trash receptacles are...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #3, #4, #6, and #7 are prone to flooding. Site #14 was mentioned as a better alternative, with only minor puddling. Site #22 was described as muddy and difficult to use during rains.
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews on accessibility features were identified.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but strict leash rules are enforced. One user recounted being harassed by a ranger for not leashing their small dog despite it being close by.
Based on 26 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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