Afognak Island State Park
00 review1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States
Afognak Island State Park
$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
About this campground
Deep in Alaska's untamed wilderness, Afognak Island State Park sprawls across 116,000 acres of pristine backcountry that few ever experience. This remote paradise, reachable only by float plane or boat, rewards adventurous souls with dense Sitka spruce forests that have stood for centuries and crystal-clear streams where salmon complete their ancient journey home. Two lovingly restored cabins perched on serene inland lakes offer the perfect basecamp for exploring this wild sanctuary, where the modern world feels a million miles away.
The park offers a unique camping experience primarily through its public use cabins, which are rustic and designed for small groups. There is no mention of tent or RV camping, making it specialized for those seeking secluded cabin stays.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme on Afognak Island, painting the landscape with 75 inches of rain annually that keep the forests lush and the streams flowing. Summer brings the gentlest conditions, with temperatures dancing between the low 40s and mid-60s – perfect for hiking beneath towering spruces or watching salmon leap upstream. The island's moody weather can shift from sunshine to showers in minutes, and seasoned visitors know that flexibility is key. Pack your rain gear, embrace the mist, and prepare for the possibility that weather might extend your wilderness adventure by a day or two.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where ancient Sitka spruces tower overhead like nature's cathedrals, their moss-draped branches creating a emerald canopy that filters sunlight into ethereal beams. Crystal-clear rivers pulse with life as thousands of salmon surge upstream, their silver bodies flashing in the current. This rugged landscape of peaks and valleys harbors some of Alaska's most iconic wildlife – mighty Kodiak brown bears fish the streams, Roosevelt elk graze in meadows, Sitka black-tailed deer bound through the forest, and countless seabirds wheel overhead, their calls echoing across the wilderness.
Geological RegionThe raw beauty of the Kodiak Island region comes alive in Afognak's dramatic landscape, where rugged mountains plunge toward the sea and ancient forests blanket the terrain. This geological wonderland showcases nature's resilience, with areas once touched by timber harvest now reclaimed by verdant new growth standing alongside centuries-old spruce giants. Bordering the renowned Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, the park serves as a vital corridor for wildlife and a testament to Alaska's enduring wild spirit, where tectonic forces and time have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking diversity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabins are accessible only by floatplane, making them unsuitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeCabins are designed to accommodate up to 6 individuals, but they are compact and functional rather than spacious.
Sites PrivacyEach cabin is situated in a remote location, allowing for significant privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPillar Lake and Laura Lake cabins are accessible by float plane and provide a serene environment surrounded by nature.
Best CampsitesPublic use cabins at Laura and Pillar Lakes are recommended for access and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified. Visitors must plan access according to weather conditions and park guidelines.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights per month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each cabin sleeps up to 4 people comfortably with a maximum of 6 guests allowed.
Groups
- Group camping is not available
- the cabins are designed for a maximum of 6 individuals.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo public-use cabins located on Pillar and Laura Lakes. Additional cabins available at Discoverer Bay and Waterfall Bay.
Open and Closed SeasonAccess to cabins may be restricted due to frozen lakes from mid-October onward.
Walk-in AvailabilityAccess to cabins requires reservations and is limited during winter months due to frozen lakes.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made within 14 days of arrival will not be refunded. Refunds are available for cancellations made at least 15 days prior to arrival except for transaction/cancellation fees.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Afognak Island State Park offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. Marine mammal observation, photography, and potential beachcombing are also highlighted. However, the remote nature of the park means activities are primarily self-guided.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, with rugged topography and old-growth Sitka spruce forests providing scenic trails. However, trails may be challenging for less experienced hikers.Fishing
Fishing is a key activity, with salmon spawning habitats in the area. Specific details on other fish types or permits required are not provided.Boating
Boating is possible via floatplane access to the lakes, although no additional boating facilities or rentals are described.Wildlife viewing
The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sightings of Kodiak brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, Roosevelt elk, and various bird species, including the endangered marbled murrelet.Beach activities
Beachcombing is mentioned as a potential activity, though details on specific beaches or activities are not provided.Winter Activities
Winter access to the cabins may be restricted due to frozen lakes, and no specific winter recreation activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking or canoeing may be possible on the lakes, but this is not explicitly confirmed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Permitted wood heating stoves are available in cabins. Firewood is provided but must be split.
Hazards
General hazardsKodiak brown bears inhabit the area. Visitors must follow bear safety guidelines, including proper food storage and carrying signaling devices. Surface water must be purified before drinking.
Active alertsAccess may be restricted due to frozen lakes in fall and winter.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 68%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
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
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station contact number: 9074866339.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are expected to pack out all their trash. Recycling options are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresCabins are located on inland lakes.
Common complaintsWeather delays for flights and encounters with Kodiak brown bears.
Campground Map
1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States
Driving directionsRemote Island - float plane or boat access only. A number of air charters provide service to the park and the public use cabins located at Pillar and Laura Lakes.
Accessible only via float plane or boat. No road access available. Seasonal conditions such as frozen lakes may restrict access in fall and winter.Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Afognak Island State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
There are no direct user reviews provided in the source material. The available information emphasizes the remote and rugged nature of the park.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Cabin amenities such as the wood heating stoves and provided firewood are practical for the remote setting. The park's seclusion and natural beauty are standout features.
Common Concerns
No reviews to summarize complaints, but potential issues could include limited amenities (e.g., no electricity, flush toilets) and the difficulty of accessing the park.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to prepare for bear encounters and pack extra food and supplies in case of weather delays. Bringing a cook stove, lantern, and water purification tools is recommended.
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal access is affected by winter conditions, as lakes may freeze as early as October, restricting floatplane access.
Camper Quotes
No direct user quotes are available.
Site-Specific Reviews
There are no user reviews available for specific cabin sites.
Accessibility Features
No user reviews on accessibility are available, but the remote nature of the park limits accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.
Pet-Friendly Features
No user reviews on pet experiences are available, but pets are allowed at the cabins.
Last updated August 10, 2025