Magoun Islands State Marine Park
Magoun Islands State Marine Park is a remote island park in southeastern Alaska known for rugged shoreline, productive marine waters, and wildlife viewing. The park offers a quiet wilderness setting for boating, kayaking, fishing, and beach camping, with dramatic scenery and frequent sightings of seabirds, marine mammals, and intertidal life.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed; keep leashed and under control. Clean up after pets and avoid disturbing wildlife or other visitors.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Remote, quiet islands with excellent wildlife viewing, kayaking, camping, and fishing. Visitors love the pristine scenery, solitude, and true off-grid Alaska experience, but note limited facilities and access.
Tips from Visitors
- Check tides before boating or kayaking.
- Bring binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Pack all water, food, and supplies.
- Use leave-no-trace camping practices.
- Dress for cold, wet coastal weather.
- Watch for changing weather and rough seas.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Magoun Islands State Marine Park is late spring through early fall, when marine weather is generally more favorable and daylight is long. Summer offers the best conditions for boating, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Magoun Islands State Marine Park:
- Tongass National ForestThe surrounding national forest offers extensive marine, island, and rainforest recreation opportunities.Within the park
- Ketchikan Waterfront and Harbor DistrictA busy harbor area with charter boats, museums, and visitor services for Southeast Alaska travel.28 miles away
- Misty Fjords National MonumentA vast wilderness of fjords, cliffs, and waterfalls popular for boat and floatplane tours.35 miles away
Things to Do at Magoun Islands State Marine Park
Camping at Magoun Islands State Marine Park
Camping is not developed at Magoun Islands State Marine Park; no facilities or reservations. Use nearby mainland campgrounds.
Directions
Reach the park by private boat or floatplane from Ketchikan or nearby Southeast Alaska communities. There are no roads, docks, or developed visitor facilities on the islands.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Magoun Islands State Marine Park?
Access is by boat or floatplane only. Most visitors reach the park from nearby coastal communities or as part of a guided trip. There are no roads, docks, or regular ferry services.
Are there camping facilities on the islands?
There are no developed campgrounds or facilities. Visitors who camp should be fully self-sufficient and prepared for primitive, backcountry conditions. Bring all supplies and pack out all trash.
What activities are popular there?
Visitors often come for kayaking, boating, wildlife viewing, fishing, and exploring the shoreline. The area is valued for its remote setting and scenic marine environment.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
Common sightings may include seabirds, marine mammals, and other coastal wildlife. Reviews often mention the area’s quiet, natural feel and good opportunities for observing wildlife from a distance.
Are there trails or visitor services?
No developed trails, visitor center, restrooms, or other services are typically available. Expect a remote marine park experience with minimal infrastructure.
What should I know before visiting?
Weather can change quickly, and conditions on the water may be rough. Bring navigation gear, safety equipment, warm layers, food, water, and emergency supplies. Cell service may be limited or unavailable.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
View Gear Checklist →