Tongass National Forest
About Tongass National Forest
Tongass National Forest is one of the most sought-after camping destinations in Alaska. With a variety of campsite types — from tent-only spots tucked in the trees to full-hookup RV pads — there's something for every kind of camper. Reservations fill up fast, especially on weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
The park sits within a stunning natural setting with access to hiking trails, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Many visitors return year after year and have their favorite sites booked months in advance. Setting a Camping Alert is the best way to snag a cancellation.
Next Weekend: Sat, Jul 11 – Sun, Jul 12
Campgrounds in Tongass National Forest
Availability shown for Next Weekend: Sat, Jul 11 – Sun, Jul 12
Booking Tips
Book as early as Recreation.gov allows — most sites open for reservations exactly 6 months in advance. Set a calendar reminder and be ready at exactly 10:00 AM EST on release day.
- Target mid-week arrivals. Monday–Thursday nights have significantly lower competition than weekend bookings.
- Watch for cancellations. Campers frequently cancel 2–3 days before arrival. Set a Camping Alert and you'll be notified the moment a spot opens.
- Flexible dates win. If you can move your trip by a day or two, you'll find far more availability.
- Check shoulder season. Late September and October offer uncrowded campsites, cooler temps, and stunning fall color — often with same-week availability.
Never miss an opening at Tongass National Forest
Get notified the moment a campsite becomes available — by email or SMS. Sub-5-minute scans on paid plans.