Last Chance Campground
4.1814 reviewsTONGASS-KETCHIKAN
Last Chance Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Peak season standard nonelectric and RV nonelectric sites are priced at $10 per night. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the legendary Tongass National Forest, Last Chance Campground offers an intimate gateway into Alaska's pristine wilderness. This fully accessible retreat in the Ward Lake Recreation Area invites adventurers to immerse themselves in a world where ancient trees tower overhead and crystal-clear streams whisper through the forest floor. Whether you're casting a line into the rushing waters of Last Chance Creek, exploring moss-draped trails, or simply listening for the haunting call of eagles overhead, this campground serves as your basecamp for authentic Alaskan experiences.
The campground offers standard non-electric sites suitable for both tent and RV campers. Each site includes essential amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and gravel parking spurs.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Last Chance Campground places you within the embrace of the Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest and a living testament to Southeast Alaska's rich natural and cultural tapestry. This vast wilderness has sustained indigenous peoples for thousands of years and continues to tell stories through its ancient trees, abundant wildlife, and pristine waterways. Here, visitors don't just observe history—they become part of an ongoing narrative that connects past, present, and future in one of Earth's last great temperate rainforests.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythms of Southeast Alaska's maritime climate shape every season at Last Chance Campground. Summer days unfold in a gentle dance of mist and sunshine, with temperatures hovering comfortably between the low 50s and mid-60s Fahrenheit—perfect for outdoor exploration without the sweltering heat found elsewhere. Come winter, the landscape transforms into a dramatic tableau of snow and rain, where freezing temperatures create crystalline mornings and cozy evenings by the campfire. The region's signature rainfall weaves through every season, nurturing the lush rainforest and creating the mystical atmosphere that makes this corner of Alaska so enchanting.
ElevationCradled in Southeast Alaska's characteristic low-lying coastal terrain, the campground rests at sea-level elevations where the forest meets the shore. This gentle topography creates an accessible wilderness experience, allowing visitors of all abilities to explore the wonders of the temperate rainforest without challenging climbs or altitude concerns.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of towering western hemlock and majestic Sitka spruce, where shafts of filtered sunlight illuminate a forest floor carpeted in emerald moss and delicate ferns. The campground's crown jewels—Last Chance Creek and Ward Creek—thread through the landscape like liquid silver, their banks lined with devil's club and salmonberry bushes. This old-growth temperate rainforest creates an otherworldly atmosphere where every turn reveals new wonders: nurse logs supporting miniature forests, eagles perched on weathered snags, and the occasional glimpse of salmon fighting upstream during their epic spawning runs.
Geological RegionLast Chance Campground sits within the magnificent Tongass National Forest of Southeast Alaska, a geological wonderland where ice-carved valleys meet the sea and ancient forests thrive in the planet's largest intact temperate rainforest. This remarkable ecosystem, dominated by towering western hemlock and Sitka spruce, represents millions of years of geological evolution—from tectonic shifts that shaped the coastline to the patient work of glaciers that carved the dramatic landscape visitors experience today.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is fully accessible, with amenities designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campsites vary in size; some are large enough to accommodate RVs.
Sites PrivacySome campsites offer a sense of isolation despite the presence of nearby groups. However, privacy levels may vary depending on the specific site and the number of visitors.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose creekside sites for better views and quieter settings. Avoid the campground during busy holiday weekends for a more peaceful experience.
Best CampsitesCampsites along the creek, including 006, 001, and 016, are highly rated for their views, privacy, and proximity to natural features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Checkout time is 2 PM.
Check-out
Checkout time is 2 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. You may stay up to 13 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact number of guests per site is not specified.
Groups
No specific details about group camping are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with 20 individual campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 21, 2025, to October 27, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned; reservation is encouraged to guarantee a spot.
Cancellation PolicyCancelations are allowed before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 1 day before check-in) will also forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Last Chance Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking on seven trails within the Ward Lake Recreation Area, freshwater fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating. The Ward Lake Nature Trail is a notable 1.3-mile loop. Visitors often enjoy the scenic old-growth rainforest and the opportunity to observe salmon spawning in nearby creeks.
Hiking
Hiking is a key activity with trails like the 1.3-mile Ward Lake Nature Trail. The area's seven trails offer diverse hiking experiences.Fishing
Freshwater fishing opportunities are available in Last Chance Creek and Ward Creek, with salmon being a notable species.Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an activity, but no specific designated areas, facilities, or safety measures are detailed.Boating
Boating is listed as an activity, but details on the types of boats allowed or docking facilities are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The area is known for its rich wildlife, including eagles, bears, and spawning salmon. One user noted seeing 'eagles swooping in' during their stay.Winter Activities
The campground is officially closed during winter, but one user noted that visitors can still enjoy outdoor activities like walking and wildlife viewing during this season.Water Sports
No specific details about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood availability is not guaranteed.
- Quiet hours are recommended but not strictly enforced; noise can be an issue during busy weekends.
Hazards
General hazardsCommon hazards include black bears (especially in August and September), uneven terrain, and wet conditions. Visitors are advised to store food securely and exercise caution.
Active alertsNo active alerts are listed; caution is advised due to frequent presence of bears.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations in Ketchikan.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21, 2025, to October 27, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo explicit trash and recycling facilities are mentioned. One user noted that litter was an issue, remarking, 'It would be nice if campers would pick up their litter.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Last Chance Creek and Ward Creek; Ward Lake is nearby for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Common complaintsUsers have reported noise during holiday weekends, unlevel campsites, and litter issues. Some reviews highlighted chainsaw noise and other disturbances.
HostFirewood and assistance are available 2 miles away at Signal Creek Campground, staffed by campground hosts.
Campground Map
TONGASS-KETCHIKAN
Driving directionsFrom the Alaska State Ferry Terminal, take Tongass Highway north 4.8 miles. At milepost 7, turn right on Revilla Road and drive for 3 miles. The campground is on the right.
Accessible via paved roads from Tongass Highway and Revilla Road.Nearby places
Ketchikan (9 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Ketchikan, approximately 9 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
14 reviews
Last Chance Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Last Chance Campground are mixed, with most appreciating the natural beauty, accessibility, and quiet weekdays, while some reported issues like noise disturbances, litter, and unhelpful staff during busy weekends.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the scenic location along the creek, spacious campsites, and opportunities for hiking, fishing, and observing wildlife. Many found the campground quiet and peaceful during weekdays.
Based on 14 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints included noise from other visitors, especially during weekends and holiday periods, litter left by previous campers, and negative interactions with Forest Service staff.
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommended bringing rain gear due to frequent rain, securing food due to bear activity, and coming prepared with firewood and trash bags.
Based on 14 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is reported to be quieter and more enjoyable on weekdays and outside major holidays. Bear activity peaks in late summer, making food storage crucial during this period.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'It was very pretty camping along the stream.' (MARY H) 2. 'Enjoyed the campsite!! Saw eagles swooping in.' (CHRISTI D) 3. 'The facilities were wonderful, the weather great, but the campground was...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site 006: 'My favorite campsite on the island. Hiking was fun, and I got to see salmon spawning.' (OMA L) 2. Site 019: 'Full of family and kids during Memorial Weekend. A blast!' (HOPE A) 3. Site...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground is fully accessible. However, no specific user reviews about accessibility experiences are available.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews on pet policies or experiences with pets are available.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025