Thumb Cove State Marine Park
00 reviewP.O. Box 1247, Soldotna, Alaska, 99669, United States
Thumb Cove State Marine Park
$45.00 - $60.00 / 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
Fees range from $45 to $60 depending on the cabin. No additional fees for campsite rentals or amenities are specified.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of Resurrection Bay, Thumb Cove State Marine Park captivates visitors with its dramatic landscape where ancient rock faces plunge into crystalline waters and cascading waterfalls echo through the forest. This cherished Alaska destination offers cozy public-use cabins as your gateway to experiencing the raw beauty of the Kenai Peninsula, where tranquility reigns and nature's grandeur unfolds at every turn.
The campground provides public use cabins but does not accommodate tent or RV camping due to its remote, boat-access-only location.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of Thumb Cove remains quietly tucked away, the land itself tells an ancient story through its pristine forests and untouched shores, offering visitors a chance to connect with Alaska's timeless wilderness heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dynamic climate where winter transforms Thumb Cove into a snow-laden wonderland with temperatures dipping below freezing and heavy snowfall blanketing the landscape. Summer brings refreshingly cool days perfect for exploration, though afternoon winds can stir the waters into dramatic displays. Year-round, the bay's moods shift from glassy calm to wild seas, reminding visitors of nature's powerful presence in this coastal paradise.
ElevationThe park's varied terrain creates natural amphitheaters and vantage points throughout the landscape, though specific elevation details await your personal discovery as you explore the trails and shoreline.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and alder creates a lush emerald canopy overhead, while beneath your feet, the shoreline transitions from fine sand to smooth beach gravel along Thumb Cove's protected waters. The park's crown jewel, the magnificent Porcupine Glacier, dominates the skyline with its ancient ice formations, creating a backdrop so stunning it seems almost surreal against the forested slopes below.
Geological RegionSituated in the spectacular Kenai/Prince William Sound region, Thumb Cove showcases Alaska's geological diversity where ice-carved mountains meet the sea. The park's southeast shoreline reveals nature's artistry through beaches composed of fine sand and water-polished gravel, while towering above, the Porcupine Glacier stands as a testament to the powerful forces that shaped this landscape over millennia. Dense forests of spruce, hemlock, and alder carpet the uplands, creating a living geological timeline where ancient ice meets thriving coastal ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Spruce Glacier Cabin is fully wheelchair accessible, but assisted access is needed from the water landing to the cabin.
Sites SizeEach cabin features two full-size bunk beds.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels of campsites are not explicitly mentioned.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe Spruce Glacier Cabin is wheelchair accessible but requires assisted access from the water landing to the beach berm.
Best CampsitesThe Porcupine Glacier Cabin and Spruce Glacier Cabin are the only two available public-use cabins.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
No maximum consecutive nights specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each cabin accommodates up to 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCabins are scattered, with no specific layout described.
Open and Closed SeasonThe park is open year-round; however, access during winter months can be difficult due to wind, rain, and heavy seas.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platforms are not specified but likely involve contacting the Direct Line or Ranger Station.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not applicable as cabins are reservable only.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy details provided.
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
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities that highlight the scenic natural beauty of Resurrection Bay and its surroundings. Activities include hiking, fishing, and sea kayaking.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are mentioned as an available activity, although specific trails, difficulty levels, and lengths are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing is permitted within the park, but details regarding types of fish or specific fishing locations are not provided.Boating
Boating is a central activity at Thumb Cove. The park is accessible only by private boat, floatplane, or commercial water taxi. Visitors are advised to secure small watercraft to avoid losing them during high tide or surf conditions.Beach activities
The park features a long beach with fine to medium sand and beach gravel, making it suitable for beach activities.Winter Activities
Winter activities may be limited due to wind, rain, and heavy seas, making access to the park potentially difficult.Water Sports
Sea kayaking is mentioned as a popular activity in the park, leveraging the coastal waters and scenic views.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Open fires are permitted only on ocean beaches below mean high tide. Fires elsewhere must be in portable stoves or designated fire sites.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include afternoon winds and hazardous seas in Resurrection Bay, which can pose challenges to small watercraft. Visitors should secure their boats to avoid loss due to high tide or surf conditions.
Active alertsNo active alerts are specified.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services are not readily available within Thumb Cove State Marine Park, and visitors must be prepared to handle emergencies themselves. The nearest staffed ranger station is seasonal and may not always be available. For medical emergencies, Seward offers healthcare facilities.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is not provided. Visitors are required to pack out all trash. Proper waste disposal methods such as burying human waste away from trails and water sources are recommended.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground includes Thumb Cove, a water body itself.
Common complaintsVisitors must bring their own wood for the stove as wood may be scarce and wet. An axe and saw may not be available due to theft.
HostStaffing is seasonal by rangers and volunteers, who are not always available.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 1247, Soldotna, Alaska, 99669, United States
Driving directionsThumb Cove State Marine Park is located on the east side of Resurrection Bay, approximately 7.5 miles from Seward. The park and cabins can only be reached by private boat, floatplane, or commercial water taxi service. If using a private boat, please use the caution necessary for coastal Alaskan waters with respect to tides, weather, currents and your party's abilities and experience level. The waters of Resurrection Bay are generally choppy in afternoons and can become hazardous to small watercraft. Anchoring is at your own risk. If pulling a kayak, inflatable or small skiff ashore, be sure to secure your boat to avoid losing it at high tide or to surf conditions. Charter boats are available in Seward and provide shuttle services to and from the park and its cabins. These cabins may be difficult to reach during the winter months due to wind, rain, and heavy seas. Please check the current weather forecast before heading out to Thumb Cove.
Access to Thumb Cove State Marine Park is highly dependent on water-based transportation. Roads do not lead directly to the park, and it is accessible via private boat, floatplane, or commercial water taxi service. Afternoon winds and hazardous seas in Resurrection Bay pose challenges for small watercraft.Nearby places
Seward (approximately 7.5 miles, travel via boat or floatplane required).
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, are available in Seward, which is approximately 7.5 miles away by boat or floatplane.
Camper Reviews
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Accessibility Features
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Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025