Sawmill Creek

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Blue Lake Road is not maintained for vehicle access from November through mid-May. The campground reopens for vehicle access around May 15.

About

Sawmill Creek Campground is a primitive, no-fee camping area managed by the U.S. Forest Service on Baranof Island in Tongass National Forest. Located approximately 7 miles southeast of Sitka, this lightly-used campground provides 4 overnight campsites plus 1 covered day-use picnic shelter. Each campsite features a picnic table and fire ring. A vault toilet is available, but there is no potable water on-site; campers must treat water from Sawmill Creek or bring their own. The campground is accessible via Sawmill Creek Road and Blue Lake Road, a combination of paved and gravel roads. From downtown Sitka, follow Sawmill Creek Road 5.2 miles to Blue Lake Road, then turn left and continue 1.5 miles on gravel to the campground sign. The road is open to vehicles from mid-May through early November; outside these dates, the campground is accessible by foot, cross-country skis, or bikes year-round. As this is bear country, food storage lockers are provided at the campground. Brown bears can be present at any time. The campground operates under a Pack In, Pack Out policy, and a 14-day camping limit per year is monitored and enforced. Campground hosts are present when possible. Some sites or the entire campground may be available for reservation on Recreation.gov, though walk-up first-come, first-served camping is typical during the season.

Directions

From downtown Sitka, follow Sawmill Creek Road 5.2 miles to Blue Lake Road. Turn left on gravel Blue Lake Road and continue 1.5 miles to the Sawmill Creek Campground sign.

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