Chilkat Islands State Marine Park
Chilkat Islands State Marine Park protects a chain of remote islands and intertidal waters at the mouth of the Chilkat River in northern Lynn Canal. The park is known for wildlife viewing, kayaking, boating, and quiet beach camping, with dramatic coastal scenery and strong tidal currents.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed; keep under control and leashed where required. Clean up after pets and protect wildlife and nesting areas.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Remote, scenic islands with abundant wildlife, kayaking, fishing, and quiet camping. Visitors love the pristine wilderness, birdwatching, and peaceful solitude, though access can be challenging.
Tips from Visitors
- Check tides before boating or beach landing.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Pack out all trash and waste.
- Dress for cold, wet coastal weather.
- Respect nesting birds and marine mammals.
- Carry navigation tools; weather changes quickly.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Chilkat Islands State Marine Park is late spring through early fall, when daylight is long, marine conditions are generally calmer, and wildlife activity is high. Summer offers the best paddling and camping weather.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Chilkat Islands State Marine Park:
- Haines Borough Public Boat HarborThe main launch point for reaching the park by boat, with services and access for visiting mariners.8 miles away
- Chilkat Bald Eagle PreserveA world-famous eagle viewing area along the Chilkat River, especially active in fall when salmon draw large numbers of bald eagles.18 miles away
- Chilkoot Lake State Recreation SiteA scenic freshwater recreation area near Haines offering camping, fishing, and mountain views.22 miles away
Things to Do at Chilkat Islands State Marine Park
Camping at Chilkat Islands State Marine Park
Primitive camping only; no developed sites, hookups, cabins, or reservations. Check park rules, tides, and weather before visiting.
Directions
Reach Haines by road or ferry, then launch from the Haines boat harbor or nearby public access points. The park is accessible only by boat; plan for tides, weather, and marine charts before crossing Lynn Canal.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Chilkat Islands State Marine Park?
The park is only accessible by boat or floatplane. Most visitors launch from Haines or nearby Chilkat Inlet communities, and many use guided tours or private boats because there are no roads or developed visitor facilities.
What can I do there?
Visitors usually come for wildlife viewing, kayaking, boating, fishing, and photography. Reviews often mention the quiet, remote setting and opportunities to see seabirds, marine mammals, and other coastal wildlife.
Are there camping facilities on the islands?
There are generally no developed campgrounds, cabins, or amenities. If you plan to camp, expect primitive, self-supported backcountry conditions and check current regulations before going.
What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings can include seabirds, shorebirds, seals, sea lions, and sometimes whales in nearby waters. Wildlife varies by season, and visitors often report that bird activity is especially noticeable around the islands.
Is the park good for kayaking?
Yes, many visitors enjoy kayaking here because of the scenic shoreline and wildlife viewing. Conditions can change quickly with tides, wind, and weather, so experience and careful trip planning are important.
When is the best time to visit?
Late spring through summer is often the most popular time for wildlife viewing and calmer travel conditions. That said, weather in Southeast Alaska can be wet and changeable any time of year, so flexible plans help.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →