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Tongass/Mendenhall Lake
Overview
Mendenhall Lake Campground offers a rare opportunity to park your rig within sight of a massive river of ice. Located inside the Tongass National Forest near Juneau, Alaska, this campground serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning glacial landscapes in North America. The atmosphere here is serene and deeply connected to nature, providing a peaceful retreat for travelers who prioritize scenery and outdoor access over commercial bells and whistles. It is widely considered one of the most scenic places to stay in the state.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is situated on the shores of Mendenhall Lake, just 13 miles from downtown Juneau. Surrounded by lush Sitka spruce and hemlock trees, the area is part of the world’s largest temperate rainforest. From your campsite, you can often hear the sound of calving ice or catch glimpses of the Mendenhall Glacier across the water. The weather is often misty and cool, which adds to the mysterious and majestic feel of the Alaskan wilderness that defines this specific region.
Amenities & Park Features
While this is a Forest Service facility, it offers more convenience than many primitive sites. The campground features electric and water hookups at select sites, which is a significant plus for RVers in this remote area. Facilities include paved parking pads, fire rings, and picnic tables at every site. You will also find a centralized dump station and potable water access. There are accessible vault toilets throughout the loops, ensuring that basic needs are met while maintaining the rustic integrity of the forest setting.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The main draw is the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, located just a short distance away. Travelers can hike the Nugget Falls Trail for a close-up view of a thundering waterfall or explore the West Glacier Trail for a more rugged experience. During the summer months, bear viewing at Steep Creek is a popular activity, as salmon return to spawn. For those with kayaks or canoes, paddling across the lake to see icebergs up close is an unforgettable way to spend an afternoon.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature photographers and outdoor enthusiasts who want an immersive wilderness experience. It is best suited for travelers who prefer a quiet, dark-sky environment over the social bustle of a private RV resort. If you enjoy waking up to the sound of birds and the smell of fresh rain on the forest floor, this is your destination. It is a perfect fit for independent RVers looking for a bucket-list stay while exploring the wonders of the Tongass National Forest.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Brian Bogdon
If your in the area it's a really cool spot to check out. You can see the glacier from the parking lot and the waterfall is an easy hike, maybe 2 miles round trip. Children can easily walk it and the path might even be wheelchair accessible until you reach the waterfall. It then turns to gravel and may be difficult but still really cool!
Cindy Bellucci
This area is beautiful and peaceful. We went on Saturday so the visitor center itself was closed,but the museum and bathrooms were open. There are many paths that can be taken and one leads to an amazing view of the waterfall and glacier. It is about 2 miles back and forth plus more for any other path in the area. All worth the fun walk around. It is not super strenuous.
Suresh Jayaraman
It's located 2nd floor, you have the option of elevator or steps. Has useful information, displays and rangers are present to explain glacier history and answer your questions regarding the same. Nugget falls is 1 mile hike (one way from here), photo point is about .3 miles (oneway) You will experience the most beautiful falls if you do plan to hike ( mostly flat).
AJ
We went in September. We took bus to the outside of the park..it took about 30 min to walk to the park entrance and see the glacier. You can walk down to the water, but not actually on the glacier. We also went to the falls which was another 30 mins. It was awesome though. This walk is not just a casual stroll even though the paths are concrete. Walking into the park, walking around to falls, then out to bus stop is probably 6 miles. (Or so it seemed). It's all worth it though.
Bolu Jackson
Great hiking experience in Juneau. The trail is well maintained, I recommend layering up and comfortable hiking boots. Casual 3.5 mile trail was a lot of fun! Be ready for those steps though! Bring your own snacks but PLEASE don't litter. have fun!