Last Chance

Summary

Last Chance Campground is located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, situated in the Tongass National Forest of Southeast Alaska. The campground offers hiking, freshwater fishing, wildlife viewing, picnic sites, drinking water and vault toilets. Surrounded by an old-growth temperate rainforest, visitors are invited to explore the area's abundant wildlife and scenic vistas.

Overview

Last Chance Campground is located in the Ward Lake Recreation Area, 9 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and about 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. This campground straddles Last Chance Creek and lies next to Ward Creek with easy access to fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing.

Recreation

Hiking is a popular option, as the Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven trails. The Ward Lake Nature Trail meanders 1.3 miles around the lake. A large day-use complex with picnic sites and shelters is also available. Freshwater fishing, wildlife viewing and scenery are favorite draws at Ward Lake.

Facilities

Last Chance Campground is designated to be fully accessible. Each campsite contains a picnic table, a campfire ring with grill and a gravel parking spur. Two hand pumps for drinking water and three vault toilets are provided. Firewood may be provided but is not guaranteed. Firewood and other assistance may be obtained from the campground host located 2 miles away at Signal Creek Campground.

Natural Features

Last Chance is surrounded by an old-growth temperate rainforest comprised primarily of western hemlock and Sitka spruce. Last Chance Creek flows through the campground, and Ward Creek runs alongside.

At nearly 17 million acres, the Tongass National Forest covers most of Southeast Alaska and is the largest forest in the national forest system. The Tongass surrounds the Inside Passage, the network of waterways that buffers the jagged Alaskan Coast and a cluster of coastline islands.

The Tongass offers visitors a chance to view wildlife, including eagles, bears and spawning salmon. Expansive vistas, including fjords, glaciers and mountain peaks abound.