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Tongass/Signal Creek
Overview
Overview
Signal Creek Campground is a scenic, publicly operated facility situated within the Tongass National Forest in Alaska. It offers a authentic, rustic immersion into the Alaskan wilderness, providing travelers with a quiet base to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Unlike commercial RV resorts, this site emphasizes a tranquil atmosphere and direct access to the coastal temperate rainforest environment that defines the region surrounding Ketchikan.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is located along the South Tongass Highway, placing it roughly 10 miles from downtown Ketchikan. Visitors are treated to lush, verdant forest views and the calming sounds of the nearby creek. Its placement along the road system makes it accessible for those exploring the island by vehicle while maintaining a secluded feel that feels miles away from the bustling cruise ship docks of the main town harbor.
Amenities & Park Features
As a forest service campground, the facilities are designed for self-contained travelers who appreciate simplicity. The park offers designated campsites suitable for RVs and trailers, though it is important to note that full hookups are generally not available. Travelers will find essential site features such as picnic tables and fire rings, making it an excellent spot for those looking to enjoy outdoor cooking amidst the towering spruce and hemlock trees.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The area is a gateway to world-class outdoor recreation. Guests can explore the nearby Totem Bight State Historical Park, which showcases stunning totem poles and traditional Tlingit architecture. Fishing, wildlife viewing, and hiking the coastal trails are popular pastimes for those staying here. Whether you are interested in spotting bald eagles or salmon running in the local streams, the park serves as a convenient launch point for exploring the Ketchikan waterfront and beyond.
Who This Park Is Best For
Signal Creek is ideal for the adventurous RVer or camper who prioritizes nature immersion over luxury resort amenities. It is a perfect choice for those traveling with smaller to medium-sized rigs who are comfortable with dry camping and want to experience the quiet, rain-drenched beauty of the Tongass National Forest. Travelers seeking a peaceful retreat away from the city center will find this location to be a quintessential Alaskan stopover.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
Rhonda Hetchler
Awesome! Awesome! Awesome! Great weather, quirt, peaceful, eay to get to. Ketchikan was alot of fun! Fishing with Captain Garrett with Barnoff Fishing was awesome! He is the best fishing guide and guide.
MyGina Mitchell
The campsites and bathrooms we're clean. In the past you could rent a campsite with $10 cash. Place it in an envelope, all good. However there is a notice stating they no longer accept cash. You need to pay online. Well there's no service there. So we drove all the to the Ward lake convenient store. When you use your card they charge you extra for it's use... Not a buck or two, but $8 so we ended up paying $18 for a $10 spot... Why?
Ash L
Overall, this is a very nice campground with very reasonable fees and easy online reservations. We will definitely be staying here again. Stayed here for 2.5 weeks in August-September 2021. I would recommend avoiding campsites 3,4,6, and 7, as they flood when it rains (from the lake coming into the campsite). Site 6 will be completely under water the quickest. Site 8 will also take on water. These sites are also directly on the path to Ward Lake...lots of foot traffic right by your campsite, which can be annoying and loud. The outhouses were simple and clean. There is bear proof storage for your food. Bring your own lock to lock the storage bin though. The park attendant was on site most of the time. Unfortunately, we were harassed by a Forest Ranger for our dog not being on a leash on our campsite (not out in the footpath, not running around, he was right by us, small dog). He kept bugging us for our names to put on a warning list. So beware of bored rangers patrolling the campsite looking for things to harass you over. Otherwise, a wonderful stay!
Britton Kimmet
Beautiful place to park, designated trash receptacles are bear proof and also keeps camp site clean. Great lake for fishing, hiking, and if your a little more adventurous take the Perseverance Trail over the Traverse and take a taxi back to camp. This is an epic hike. I did not see showers here but there is a gym in town you could use (rec center). There is a bathroom but just a toilet in a building with a hole in the ground.
Darlene G-Sullivan
It's a great place to camp, but they don't clean the bathrooms enough and trash removal need so little attention but it's a beautiful lake and a beautiful place to camp