Dyea Campground
4.8212 reviewsDyea Campground
$0.00 - $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
The campground has a nominal fee during summer months that ranges up to $10. It is free outside peak season (end of August, per user review).
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil haven of Dyea Campground, where towering trees create a natural cathedral above your tent and the melodic Taiya River provides nature's soundtrack. This peaceful retreat offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience with pit toilets and no running water, perfect for those seeking to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with Alaska's raw beauty. Each campsite feels like your own private wilderness sanctuary, thoughtfully spaced to ensure the solitude and quiet reflection that only untouched nature can provide.
The Dyea Campground offers spaces for tent and RV camping, with emphasis on a rustic, natural environment.
Historical SignificanceCamp in the shadows of history at Dyea, where gold rush dreams once flourished in the nearby historic townsite. Just steps from your tent, the legendary Chilkoot Trailhead beckons modern adventurers to follow in the footsteps of prospectors who once risked everything for fortune. The ghosts of the past whisper through the trees, sharing tales of the boomtown that was once Alaska's largest city during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1897-1898.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Dyea, where summer brings endless daylight and wildflower meadows, while winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland beneath heavy blankets of snow. The weather here tells the story of the far north, with conditions that can shift from gentle sunshine to dramatic storms, reminding visitors of nature's powerful presence in this corner of the world.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a pristine woodland sanctuary where ancient spruce and hemlock trees stand sentinel along the crystal-clear Taiya River. Morning mist dances across the water while eagles soar overhead, and the gentle rustle of leaves creates a natural symphony that soothes the soul. This serene landscape offers photographers endless opportunities and provides a peaceful backdrop for contemplation, whether you're watching salmon navigate the river or simply enjoying the dappled sunlight filtering through the forest canopy.
Geological RegionDiscover your basecamp in the heart of Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest, where the Taiya River has carved its path through glacially sculpted valleys for millennia. This enchanting wooded sanctuary sits at the convergence of river and forest, creating a unique ecosystem where moss-draped trees lean over rushing waters and the ancient geology of the Coast Mountains shapes every vista.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as level and suitable for both tents and RVs. Some pull-through sites may not be ideal for larger rigs.
Sites PrivacyThe sites are noted to be quiet, private, and surrounded by large trees, providing a secluded camping experience.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations suggest choosing smaller rigs for better access.
Best CampsitesNone specifically identified.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are described as level, with options for tents and smaller RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonThe Dyea Campground is open when free of snow.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available for this campground, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. User reviews confirm availability and usage patterns.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are managed through Recreation.gov; fees and penalties may apply depending on timing.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Dyea Campground is located near the historic townsite of Dyea and the Chilkoot Trailhead, making it an excellent spot for historical exploration and hiking. Wildlife viewing, including bears and foxes, is also noted by visitors.
Hiking
The campground is half a mile from the Chilkoot Trailhead, offering easy access to historical and nature hiking trails.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with reports of bears and a red fox seen near the campground.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors have attended ranger-led tours that discuss the history of the area and the natural reclamation of land.Winter Activities
Winter camping is not explicitly mentioned but would depend on snow conditions as the campground is open when snow-free.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific rules provided.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife, including bears and foxes, is present in the area.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services are likely found in nearby Skagway, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesCamping fees apply during the summer months, ending in August.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not described in the provided sources.
Proximity to water featuresLocated along the Taiya River.
Common complaintsSome sites may not accommodate large rigs effectively.
HostNational Park Service rangers monitor the campground.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe Dyea Campground is located 9 miles from Skagway and .5 miles from the Chilkoot Trailhead.
The campground can be reached via a drive from Skagway, which makes it accessible. However, user reviews suggest that larger rigs may have difficulty with pull-throughs.Nearby places
Skagway is the closest major town, located 9 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can likely be obtained in Skagway, 9 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.8
12 reviews
Dyea Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Dyea Campground is praised for its quiet, secluded atmosphere with clean facilities and free firewood. Visitors enjoy its proximity to nature and the Chilkoot Trailhead.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes the quiet and private atmosphere, clean pit toilets, free firewood, and the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Based on 12 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some pull-through sites may not be suitable for large RVs. A lack of running water is a noticeable downside.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Plan ahead for no potable water on-site. Bring sufficient water for your stay and take advantage of the free firewood.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is noted to be chargeable only until the end of August, with some reviews mentioning it as a free camping spot during off-season months. Summer months are popular for accessibility and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great little state campground. Very quiet and private. No running water - just a heads up." - Tyson Doonan. "Free firewood. Camp host on site." - Edward Brown. "You can't beat the nightly price of...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight the level sites and emphasis on privacy, though larger RV owners may need to be cautious about site suitability.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific mentions of accessibility features or reviews by disabled campers are provided.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not discussed in the provided reviews.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025