Last Chance Campground

About

Last Chance Campground sits in the heart of the Ward Lake Recreation Area within Alaska's Tongass National Forest, about 9 miles north of downtown Ketchikan and 4 miles north of the State ferry terminal. The campground straddles Last Chance Creek with Ward Creek running alongside, creating excellent opportunities for freshwater fishing and wildlife viewing. The surrounding old-growth temperate rainforest, comprised primarily of western hemlock and Sitka spruce, provides a quintessential Southeast Alaska camping experience. The campground features 19 drive-in sites accessible via paved road, with 17 sites designed as fully wheelchair accessible. Each campsite includes a picnic table and campfire ring with grill on a gravel parking spur. Three vault toilets serve the campground, along with garbage collection. Hand pumps are available but water may not be potable, so campers should bring drinking water. The Ward Lake Recreation Area boasts seven hiking trails, including the popular 1.3-mile Ward Lake Nature Trail that meanders around the lake. Black bears frequent the area from August through September when salmon are spawning, so proper food storage in vehicles or bear boxes is essential. A large day-use area with picnic sites and shelters is also nearby.

Directions

From 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.