Bartlett Cove Campground
05 reviewsPO Box 140, Gustavus, AK, 99826, USA
Bartlett Cove Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping at Bartlett Cove Campground is free, as stated by the National Park Service. No fees are charged for the stay.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shoreline of Glacier Bay, Bartlett Cove Campground offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience just a quarter-mile stroll from the historic dock. This National Park Service gem welcomes adventurers free of charge, providing thoughtfully designed amenities that blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Each campsite features bear-proof food storage lockers for peace of mind, while a cozy warming shelter stocked with firewood invites evening gatherings around the communal fire pit. With clean vault toilets and a walk-in design that preserves the area's tranquility, this campground serves as your gateway to one of Alaska's most spectacular marine wilderness areas.
Bartlett Cove Campground is a walk-in, tent-only campground, free for visitors and located in a scenic area near the shoreline. It is not reservable and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceBartlett Cove stands as a testament to nature's resilience and renewal, anchoring Glacier Bay National Park's incredible story of glacial retreat and ecological rebirth. This protected haven preserves one of the world's most dramatic examples of plant succession, where life has reclaimed land once buried beneath thousands of feet of ice. The cove serves as both a scientific treasure trove for researchers studying climate change and biodiversity, and a spiritual sanctuary that continues to hold deep significance for the Huna Tlingit people, whose ancestors called this bay home before the glaciers advanced.
Weather and SeasonsEmbrace the authentic Southeast Alaska experience where misty mornings give way to dramatic cloud formations dancing across Glacier Bay. Winter brings crisp temperatures hovering between 28°F and 33°F, painting the landscape in ethereal frost while occasional rain showers create a symphony on the forest canopy. Summer transforms the campground into a vibrant basecamp, with extended daylight hours perfect for wildlife watching and kayaking adventures. The region's maritime climate means rain gear is essential year-round, but the ever-changing weather patterns create some of the most stunning atmospheric conditions you'll witness anywhere in Alaska.
ElevationPerched at sea level where the forest meets the tide, Bartlett Cove Campground offers the rare opportunity to fall asleep to the rhythmic lapping of Glacier Bay's waters just steps from your tent. This waterfront elevation provides unparalleled access to both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, allowing campers to explore tidal pools at low tide and venture into old-growth forests without gaining a single foot in elevation.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the haunting calls of loons echoing across mist-shrouded waters, where dense Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests cascade down to meet the rocky shoreline. The campground's waterfront location offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater – watch humpback whales breach in the distance, sea otters play in the kelp beds, and bald eagles soar overhead. Morning light filters through the forest canopy, illuminating moss-draped trees and revealing hidden wildlife trails. As evening approaches, the setting sun paints Glacier Bay in shades of gold and purple, creating perfect conditions for photography and quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionSet within the crown jewel of Alaska's Inside Passage, Bartlett Cove Campground sits at the heart of Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve – a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing 3.3 million acres of dynamic glacial landscapes. This remarkable region tells Earth's story through exposed bedrock, advancing and retreating glaciers, and fjords carved by ancient ice. The park encompasses temperate rainforest, alpine tundra, and over 1,000 miles of coastline, creating one of the most biologically diverse marine ecosystems on the planet. Here, tectonic forces continue to shape the landscape, with the land rising nearly two inches per year as it rebounds from the weight of departed glaciers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelbarrows are provided to assist with transporting gear. Detailed information about access for individuals with disabilities is not available.
Sites SizeThe sites are described as spacious and well-maintained, although no numeric dimensions are provided.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight the high level of privacy at the campsites. Aaron Pressel mentioned, 'Very clean, very private, excellent views.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTent camping is ideal due to the lack of access for RVs and vehicles. Sites along the shoreline offer optimal views of Bartlett Cove.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Stays are limited to 14 days.
Groups
Group sites are not referenced in the information provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of designated walk-in tent sites. Wheelbarrows are provided for transporting gear.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis. As reservations are not required, visitors should obtain a free camping permit upon arrival at the Visitor Information Station near the dock.
Cancellation PolicyBartlett Cove Campground does not require reservations, as it is free and operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. Consequently, there is no cancellation policy.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
WiFi
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bartlett Cove Campground offers a serene environment that caters to tent campers who enjoy natural and scenic beauty. Activities are centered around enjoying the nearby shore and exploring the surrounding area.
Winter Activities
Winter-specific activities are not described in the provided information.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is provided for use in the designated warming shelter and fire pit.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters, particularly with bears. Food storage lockers are provided to mitigate risks.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 89%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are based in Gustavus, which hosts medical facilities, police departments, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is in close proximity to Bartlett Cove, offering shoreline access and views of Glacier Bay.
Campground Map
PO Box 140, Gustavus, AK, 99826, USA
Driving directionsThe campground is located about 1/4 mile by trail from the main dock in Bartlett Cove. It has designated sites, a warming shelter, vault toilets, and bear-proof food caches. Wheelbarrows are available to help transport gear. Stop by the Visitor Information Station near the dock to obtain a free camping permit for the campground.
The campground is accessible only by trail from the Bartlett Cove dock. There is no vehicle access, making it ideal for tent campers. Gear transportation is aided by wheelbarrows provided on-site.Nearby places
Gustavus is the nearest city with postal services and basic amenities
distance details are not explicitly provided.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are located in Gustavus. Specific proximity metrics are not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Bartlett Cove Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, privacy, scenic beauty, and well-maintained facilities. Several reviews highlight the natural and peaceful environment as major draws.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the 'clean and very modern' vault toilets, as noted by Jonas Henn. Others applaud the high level of privacy and natural beauty, with Aaron Pressel describing it as 'very...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
One review by Chrissi St noted that the firewood provided could be 'rather wet.'
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to bring their own firewood if possible, as the provided firewood may be damp. Additionally, guests can shower at Glacier Bay Lodge for $5. Wheelbarrows are available to help...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews do not explicitly distinguish between seasons, but the campground's appeal for its natural beauty and proximity to the shore may make it more popular in warmer months.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. Chrissi St: 'Nice campground with plenty of spaces. Food cache, toilet and firewood (rather wet) available. Bathrooms with warm water are located at the Ranger station and at the nearby Glacier...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are not provided, but the campground as a whole is described positively and suitable for tent camping.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features such as wheelbarrows for gear transport are noted, but there is no detailed feedback from users with disabilities.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews do not mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025