24
Total Campsites
Campground
24
Reservable Sites
Check by phone
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND
Overview Signal Creek Campground is a year-round facility located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, 7 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and about 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. The campground straddles Signal Creek and lies on the banks of Ward Lake, 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 Travel meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking, 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 Travel meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, canoeing, kayaking, wildlife viewing and scenery are favorite draws at Ward Lake. Natural Features The campground is surrounded by an old-growth temperate rainforest comprised primarily of western hemlock and Sitka spruce. Signal Creek flows through the campground, and Ward Lake is adjacent. 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.
- 24 total campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (24).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND special
Signal Creek Campground sits within the lush Ward Lake Recreation Area, just seven miles north of Ketchikan on Alaska's Inside Passage. With 24 sites nestled among towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock, this year-round campground offers a rare chance to experience the Tongass National Forest — the largest national forest in the country — from a comfortable base camp. The air here carries the scent of cedar and rain-soaked earth, and the creek that gives the campground its name provides a constant, soothing soundtrack. Ward Lake itself is a short walk away, offering fishing for trout and Dolly Varden char, along with an easy lakeside trail perfect for morning strolls. Ketchikan, known for its totem poles, colorful Creek Street boardwalk, and world-class salmon fishing, is close enough for day trips but far enough that the campground feels like its own quiet corner of the rainforest. Because Signal Creek is open all year, it attracts visitors across every season — though summer months from June through August bring the longest daylight and the warmest temperatures. Southeast Alaska is famously wet, so pack quality rain gear regardless of when you visit. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis during the off-season, but reservations are strongly encouraged for summer stays.
Campsite Inventory
24 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
24
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
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 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.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND?
SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (24).
Where is SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND located?
SIGNAL CREEK CAMPGROUND is in Alaska. Coordinates: 55.4082, -131.6998.
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