18
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND
Overview Last Chance Campground is located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, 9 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and about 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. This campground straddles Last Chance Creek and lies next to Ward Creek with easy access to fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing. Recreation Hiking is a popular option, as the Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven trails. The Ward Lake Nature Trail meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, wildlife viewing and scenery are favorite draws at Ward Lake. Facilities Hiking is a popular option, as the Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven trails. The Ward Lake Nature Trail meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, wildlife viewing and scenery are favorite draws at Ward Lake. Natural Features Last Chance is surrounded by an old-growth temperate rainforest comprised primarily of western hemlock and Sitka spruce. Last Chance Creek flows through the campground, and Ward Creek runs alongside. At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest covers most of Southeast Alaska and is the largest forest in the national forest system. The Tongass surrounds the Inside Passage, the network of waterways that buffers the jagged Alaskan Coast and a cluster of coastline islands. The Tongass offers visitors a chance to view wildlife, including eagles, bears and spawning salmon. Expansive vistas, including fjords, glaciers and mountain peaks abound.
- 18 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- Most common site type: unknown (18).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND special
Tucked into the lush, moss-draped forests of the Ward Lake Recreation Area, Last Chance Campground sits just nine miles north of Ketchikan along a tumbling creek that fills the air with its steady murmur. This is Southeast Alaska at its most accessible — towering Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and the unmistakable scent of the rainforest surround every site. A network of easy trails winds through the recreation area, connecting Ward Lake, Ward Creek, and a peaceful picnic area that makes for perfect afternoon wandering. Anglers will appreciate the creek access for trout and salmon fishing during summer runs, while birders can spot bald eagles, Steller's jays, and the occasional marbled murrelet overhead. The campground is modest in size, so arriving early or snagging a reservation ahead of peak season is wise. Summer months from June through August offer the longest daylight and mildest temperatures, though you should always pack rain gear — Ketchikan averages over 150 inches of rainfall a year. With the Alaska Marine Highway terminal nearby and Ketchikan's colorful downtown just a short drive south, Last Chance makes an ideal base for exploring the Tongass National Forest and the Inside Passage without sacrificing creature comforts.
Campsite Inventory
18 sites to choose from
Unknown
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
2:00 PM
Condition Rating
Basic
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway surface
Gravel, Paved
Max guests
10
Max vehicle length (ft)
20, 25, 30, 35
Minimum guests
Yes
Shade
Full, Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
907-225-2148
Getting There
From the Alaska State Ferry Terminal, take Tongass Highway north 4.8 miles. At milepost 7, turn right on Revilla Road and drive for 3 miles. The campground is on the right.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND?
LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND currently lists Unknown (18).
Where is LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND located?
LAST CHANCE CAMPGROUND is in Alaska. Coordinates: 55.4323, -131.6860.
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