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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
Amber
What an absolutely beautiful area, and hike. I decided to go last minute here and went alone, if you have the chance, definitely go! You can see the glacier without hiking but the hike leads you to a gorgeous waterfall area. They have a lot of wildlife, be prepared to check the treetops if you’d like to see eagles! You will also find some smaller furry lads on the ground, hopefully. The hike to the waterfall was not bad at all, if you are in even moderately good shape. The bathrooms were clean enough and well maintained. Enjoy the hikes around the park, it’s beautiful. Parking is available at a huge lot down the road and the walk isn’t bad. I definitely want to add: DO NOT take rides from the guys that are “taxis” right at the park. They will scam and nickle and dime you. Either order a ride share, take a tour, or drive up on your own. I say this because I was visiting alone and was made to feel bad, unsafe, and got yelled at because I refused the ride from them. Overall, this didn’t sour my experience but I want others to be aware. Stay safe, and enjoy seeing the world!
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!
Ino Ruiz
Really unique place until the glacier melts then they might have to change the name to Medenhall Glacier Memorial Park. We were able to drop by this on our way to the whale watching tour. We were able to do the short trail, walk up to the lake. If you have time, you can walk up to the Nugget Falls trail in 30min. It's a lot of snow melt, and it's pretty. The visitor center is small, but informative. They do have Junior Ranger program. Small parking lot and facilities to make the time at the park enjoyable. We were really lucky as the sun was out, despite the rainy season. Nice park, great views that near Juneau has to offer.
Dane
4 Stars – Beautiful Glacier Experience with Some Limitations We visited the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center as part of a cruise excursion, and overall it was a memorable stop. The visitor center itself is very well done, full of fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and helpful rangers who provide great insight into the glacier’s history and the surrounding environment. It’s definitely worth spending some time inside before or after exploring the trails. There are three main hiking trails, and we were able to complete two of them during our visit. The most popular trail leads to a stunning waterfall, which was one of the highlights of the day. Standing so close to the powerful rush of water was amazing, and the hike itself was easy and accessible. Just keep in mind that from the waterfall viewpoint you’ll see very little of the glacier’s face, so don’t expect a dramatic glacier backdrop from that angle. One thing to note is that the glacier has receded quite a bit over the past decade, and while it’s still impressive, it’s not quite as massive or striking as older photos might lead you to believe. That said, it’s still a remarkable sight. When we visited, it was both rainy and very crowded, which made it a little less enjoyable. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and large groups, especially if you’re visiting during cruise ship season. Despite those challenges, Mendenhall Glacier is absolutely worth a visit if you’re in Juneau. The combination of the visitor center, easy-to-access trails, and natural beauty makes it a must-see stop, even if the glacier itself isn’t as commanding as it once was.
Kao Saephan
Visiting Mendenhall Glacier was nothing short of magical! From the moment we arrived, we were surrounded by the stunning beauty of Alaska’s wild landscape. The glacier itself is absolutely majestic, framed by snow-capped mountains that looked like something out of a postcard. The weather was perfect—clear skies and just the right amount of cool breeze made it easy to take in the views without any rush. One of the highlights of our visit was spotting bald eagles soaring gracefully above the trees and perched nearby. It felt like something out of a nature documentary! Their presence added a special sense of awe to the already breathtaking surroundings. A short hike led us to Nugget Falls, and wow—what a powerful and refreshing sight! The waterfall thunders down right next to the glacier and offers incredible photo ops. Standing near the base of the falls, with the glacier in the background, was one of the most memorable moments of our trip. If you’re planning a trip to Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is a must-see. With its combination of glaciers, waterfalls, wildlife, and mountain views—all wrapped in beautiful weather—it’s the kind of place that leaves a lasting impression. Highly recommend!
Sarah Rudolph
It may be on the moderate to smaller size, but this place is fun and beautiful and full of surprises, especially if it's your first time! The glacier was awesome, and seeing Nugget Falls and getting that close to it was just wow! We did see a porcupine right by the trail beside the building, and we barely missed seeing a bear and her cubs on the way to the falls. Definitely a fun, educational, interactive place!