Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park
00 review1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States
Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park
$5.00 - $5.00 / 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
All Kodiak road-based state parks have a $5 per vehicle day-use fee, payable by cash or check at a self-pay station or via annual vehicle sticker. Additional $5 entrance fee applies to the Kodiak Military History Museum.
About this campground
Where history meets wilderness on Alaska's Emerald Isle, Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park stands as a testament to both natural wonder and wartime heritage. Here, mysterious WWII bunkers emerge from ancient spruce forests, while dramatic ocean cliffs frame sweeping views of the North Pacific. This 186-acre sanctuary seamlessly weaves together the echoes of military history with the timeless beauty of Kodiak's rugged coastline.
The park offers a limited range of camping options, with a focus on small-scale and walk-in sites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to America's Pacific fortress days, where concrete gun emplacements and hidden bunkers tell the story of Kodiak's crucial role in WWII coastal defense. These weathered sentinels, once vigilant against enemy approach, now serve as fascinating windows into military history. The crown jewel of the park's historical offerings is the Kodiak Military History Museum, ingeniously housed within an authentic WWII Ready Ammunition Bunker, where artifacts and exhibits bring the past vividly to life.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic moods of Alaska's maritime climate throughout the year. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures hovering between 33-34°F as Pacific storms roll through. Come spring, the landscape awakens as temperatures climb to a pleasant 57-61°F, perfect for exploration. Ocean breezes maintain their presence year-round, with winds typically gusting 25-36 mph, bringing the fresh scent of sea spray. While rain and snow punctuate the cooler months, summer often rewards visitors with clearer skies and gentler conditions.
ElevationPerched atop Kodiak's dramatic coastline, the park's terrain rises and falls with the island's characteristic ruggedness. Visitors traverse varied elevations as trails wind from sea-level beaches to clifftop vantage points, offering ever-changing perspectives of the surrounding seascape and forested interior.
Natural Features and SceneryNature puts on a spectacular show at every turn, from thundering waves crashing against vertical cliffs to serene meadows painted with seasonal wildflowers. Ancient Sitka spruce forests create cathedral-like groves where filtered sunlight dances on moss-covered trails. In summer, the meadows burst with chocolate lilies, lupines, and wild geraniums, while eagles soar overhead and sea otters play in the kelp beds below. As one enchanted visitor noted, this is truly a 'picturesque park on Kodiak Island' where every vista seems crafted for wonder.
Geological RegionCarved by millennia of Pacific storms and tectonic forces, Kodiak Island showcases nature's raw power through its dramatic coastal geology. The park exemplifies the island's signature landscape: towering ocean cliffs that plunge into churning seas, dense temperate rainforests that have stood for centuries, and rolling meadows that soften the rugged terrain. This remarkable convergence of ecosystems exists atop ancient bedrock, creating a geological tapestry that also served as an ideal strategic location for World War II coastal defense installations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible campsites, picnic shelters, and vault toilets are available within the facility.
Sites SizeThe park features five small vehicle sites and three walk-in sites.
Sites PrivacyNot explicitly described in the source material.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend exploring sites near the old fort for the best views.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
The official materials mention a group area '726,' but specific details about its size or capacity are absent.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with 5 vehicle sites and 3 walk-in sites.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonal availability not specified.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platform details not provided.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo explicit information on walk-up/first-come-first-served availability for sites was provided.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules not specifically outlined.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The park provides a range of activities that emphasize both recreation and education. These include hiking on approximately seven miles of trails, fishing for trout in Lake Gertrude, wildlife and bird viewing, marine mammal observation, and exploring the WWII remnants through self-guided tours. Other advertised recreational opportunities include canoeing, surfing, beachcombing, and participating in summer naturalist programs.
Hiking
The park has around seven miles of hiking trails that wind through spruce forests and around Lake Gertrude. These trails offer scenic views of ocean bays, coastal cliffs, and distant mountain landscapes.Fishing
Trout fishing is available in Lake Gertrude.Boating
Non-motorized boating such as canoeing is available.Wildlife viewing
Campers can enjoy wildlife and marine mammal viewing, along with bird watching.Beach activities
Beachcombing and tidepooling are available along the park's coastline.Cultural and Educational Programs
Summer naturalist programs and access to the WWII historical remnants and the Kodiak Military History Museum provide cultural and educational experiences.Winter Activities
Not mentioned in the source material.Water Sports
The park supports water-based recreational activities including canoeing and tidepooling.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsBears occasionally visit the park, primarily during berry season. Wildlife encounters require caution.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station: 9074866339; Additional emergency services not explicitly detailed in source.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates were not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingNo specific details mentioned about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLake Gertrude offers trout fishing; scenic ocean overlooks and tidepooling opportunities are available.
Campground Map
1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States
Driving directionsTo reach the park from the ferry dock and downtown, go west on Center Street, and make a right onto Rezanof Drive, follow Rezanof Dr. for 3.7 miles and turn right onto Abercrombie Drive which leads to the park. If starting from the Kodiak State Airport, make a right onto Rezanof Drive, follow Rezanof for 8.5 miles and turn right onto Abercrombie Drive.
Access to the park is straightforward via paved roads. Abercrombie Drive connects directly to the main Rezanof Drive, which is accessible from both the ferry dock (3.7 miles) and Kodiak State Airport (8.5 miles). Seasonal closures or challenging terrain are not mentioned.Nearby places
Kodiak (3.7 miles from ferry dock, 8.5 miles from airport)
Nearby supplies
Sources for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are not explicitly mentioned in the materials provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews suggest that Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park is a well-maintained and picturesque destination with a unique combination of historical and natural attractions.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects highlighted by users include the scenic views, well-maintained trails, and the historical context provided by the WWII remnants. The park's small size and cleanliness also received...
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Common Concerns
No significant complaints were noted in the user reviews.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
None provided in the user reviews.
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends in reviews were not explicitly discussed.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great State Park with some historical relevance adding to its charm. Plenty of trials and camping options. Views from the old fort are fantastic.' - Stufer W, July 2021
2. 'Beautiful and well...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews were mentioned.
Accessibility Features
No accessibility-specific user reviews were available.
Pet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet-related experiences in user reviews.
Last updated August 10, 2025