Overview
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area is a serene and picturesque campground located on the shores of Prince William Sound, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. This campground is special due to its unique setting, with towering trees, abundant wildlife, and access to a variety of outdoor activities. The scenery is characterized by lush forests, rugged coastlines, and majestic mountain peaks, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the unique features of Whiskey Point is its proximity to the Sound, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
The campground is situated in a secluded area, yet it is still accessible by road, making it an attractive option for those seeking a wilderness experience without being too far from civilization. The area is rich in history and culture, with evidence of ancient Native American settlements and early European exploration. Visitors can explore the surrounding area, which is filled with interesting geological formations, such as glaciers, fjords, and waterfalls.
Location & Directions
To get to Whiskey Point State Recreation Area, take the Seward Highway (AK-1) from Anchorage, and turn onto Portage Glacier Road at mile marker 78. Continue on Portage Glacier Road for approximately 5 miles, then turn left onto Whiskey Point Road. The campground is located at the end of Whiskey Point Road, near the shoreline of Prince William Sound. The GPS coordinates for the campground are 60.7833° N, 148.9333° W.
Driving from Anchorage, the journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions. The road is generally well-maintained, but it can be narrow and winding in some areas. Be cautious of wildlife, such as moose and bears, when driving through the area. It is also essential to check the weather forecast before embarking on your journey, as the road can be slippery and icy during the winter months.
Campground Details
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area has a total of 20 campsites, including 10 tent sites, 5 RV sites, and 5 walk-in sites. The RV sites have hookups for water and electricity, while the tent and walk-in sites have access to potable water and vault toilets. The maximum RV length is 35 feet, and the campground has a dump station available for RVs.
The current fees for camping at Whiskey Point are $20 per night for tent and walk-in sites, and $30 per night for RV sites. Reservations can be made through reserveamerica.com, but some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Check-in time is 2 pm, and check-out time is 12 pm. The campground is open from May 15th to September 15th, but it is essential to check the official website for any updates on the opening and closing dates.
It is recommended to make reservations in advance, especially during peak season, as the campground can fill up quickly. Be sure to review the campground’s rules and regulations before your visit, including any specific guidelines for food storage, campfires, and wildlife encounters.
Campsite Amenities
- Picnic tables and fire rings at each site
- Potable water and vault toilets
- Dump station for RVs
- Bear boxes for food storage
- Boat launch and dock access
Facilities & Amenities
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area has a range of facilities and amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. The campground has potable water available at the campground entrance, as well as hand pumps at various locations throughout the campground. The restrooms are vault toilets, but they are well-maintained and clean.
Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground entrance. There are also bear boxes at each site for secure food storage, which is essential in bear country. The campground has a boat launch and dock access, making it an ideal destination for boaters and fishermen.
The dump station is available for RVs, and there is a fish cleaning station for anglers to clean their catch. The campground also has a day-use area with picnic tables, a playground, and a beach access point. The day-use area is perfect for those who want to spend the day exploring the area without camping overnight.
Hiking & Activities Nearby
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area is surrounded by a range of hiking trails, offering something for every skill level and interest. The nearby trails include the Whiskey Point Trail, a 2-mile loop that takes you through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the Sound. The Portage Glacier Trail is a 1-mile trail that takes you to the foot of the glacier, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Other activities in the area include fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Sound is home to a variety of marine wildlife, including whales, sea lions, and sea otters. The area is also famous for its berry picking, with a range of wild berries available in the summer months. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Whittier, which has a range of shops, restaurants, and amenities.
For those interested in fishing, the nearby Portage River and Prince William Sound offer a range of fishing opportunities, including salmon, halibut, and trout. The area is also home to a range of outdoor adventure companies, offering guided hiking, fishing, and kayaking trips.
Nearby Trails
- Whiskey Point Trail: 2 miles, easy to moderate
- Portage Glacier Trail: 1 mile, easy
- Portage River Trail: 3 miles, moderate to difficult
Fishing Opportunities
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area is a fisherman’s paradise, with a range of fishing opportunities available in the nearby rivers, lakes, and Sound. The Portage River is home to a range of fish species, including salmon, trout, and char. The Sound is famous for its halibut and lingcod fishing, and the nearby lakes are home to a range of fish species, including trout and grayling.
Visitors can fish from the shore, or rent a boat to explore the Sound and surrounding waters. The area is also home to a range of fishing guides and charter companies, offering guided fishing trips and expert advice. Be sure to check the local fishing regulations before you head out, as they can change frequently.
The best techniques for fishing in the area depend on the species and location. For salmon, try using a spinning rod with a lure or fly. For halibut, try using a heavy-duty rod with a bait or jig. For trout, try using a fly rod with a dry fly or nymph.
Fishing Regulations
- Check the local fishing regulations before you head out
- Obtain any necessary permits or licenses
- Respect catch limits and size restrictions
- Handle fish gently and humanely
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Whiskey Point State Recreation Area is from May to September, when the weather is warm and the days are long. The peak season is from June to August, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the wildlife is most active. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so be prepared for crowds and long lines.
To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season, from May to June or September to October. The weather is still mild, and the scenery is just as beautiful, but the crowds are smaller. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable.
Mosquito season typically runs from June to August, so be sure to bring insect repellent and protective clothing. The area is also home to a range of other insects, including flies and bees, so be prepared for a range of biting insects.
Weather Patterns
- Summer: warm and sunny, with average highs in the 60s and 70s
- Winter: cold and snowy, with average lows in the 10s and 20s
- Shoulder season: mild and unpredictable, with average highs in the 40s and 50s
Wildlife & Bear Safety
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area is home to a range of wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. The area is also home to a range of smaller mammals, including beavers, otters, and marmots. When visiting the area, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid wildlife encounters.
Bears are a significant concern in the area, and visitors should take all necessary precautions to avoid encounters. This includes storing food and trash properly, making noise while hiking, and carrying bear spray. If you encounter a bear, stay calm and follow the proper protocols, including giving the bear plenty of space and avoiding eye contact.
Moose are also common in the area, and can be aggressive if they feel threatened. Be sure to keep a safe distance and avoid approaching moose, especially during the rutting season. Eagles and other birds of prey are also common in the area, and can be a significant concern for small pets and children.
Bear Safety Tips
- Store food and trash properly
- Make noise while hiking
- Carry bear spray
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Avoid approaching bears or other wildlife
What to Bring
When visiting Whiskey Point State Recreation Area, it is essential to be prepared with the right gear and clothing. The area is known for its unpredictable weather, so be sure to bring layers, including a waterproof jacket and pants. The area is also home to a range of biting insects, so be sure to bring insect repellent and protective clothing.
A good pair of hiking boots or shoes is essential for exploring the area, as well as a backpack or daypack for carrying gear and supplies. A camera and binoculars are also a must, as the area is home to a range of wildlife and scenic views. Be sure to bring a map and compass, as well as a GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app.
Firewood is available for purchase at the campground entrance, but be sure to follow the campground’s firewood policy. The policy requires that all firewood be purchased from the campground or brought from a certified supplier, to prevent the spread of invasive species.
Packing List
- Layers, including a waterproof jacket and pants
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Backpack or daypack
- Camera and binoculars
- Map and compass
- GPS device or smartphone with GPS app
- Insect repellent and protective clothing
- Firewood (if planning to have a campfire)
Nearby Attractions & Towns
Whiskey Point State Recreation Area is located near the town of Whittier, which has a range of shops, restaurants, and amenities. The town is also home to a range of outdoor adventure companies, offering guided hiking, fishing, and kayaking trips.
Other nearby attractions include the Portage Glacier, which is accessible by road or hiking trail. The glacier is a popular destination for hiking and ice climbing, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The nearby town of Girdwood is also worth visiting, with its range of shops, restaurants, and amenities.
For those looking for other camping options, there are several nearby campgrounds, including the Williwaw Campground and the Granite Creek Campground. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities and activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Nearby Towns
- Whittier: 10 miles, 20 minutes
- Girdwood: 30 miles, 45 minutes
- Anchorage: 60 miles, 1 hour
Tips from Experienced Campers
Experienced campers recommend arriving early to secure a campsite, especially during peak season. They also recommend bringing a range of gear and supplies, including layers, insect repellent, and a good map and compass.
Cell service can be spotty in the area, so be sure to bring a phone with a good signal or a two-way radio. Noise considerations are also important, as the area is home to a range of wildlife and other campers. Be sure to keep noise levels down, especially in the evening and at night.
Sunrise and sunset are also worth experiencing, with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterways. Be sure to bring a camera and binoculars to capture the moment, and to take in the stunning scenery.
Finally, be sure to follow the campground’s rules and regulations, including any specific guidelines for food storage, campfires, and wildlife encounters. This will help to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all campers, and to protect the area’s unique and fragile environment.
Insider Tips
- Arrive early to secure a campsite
- Bring a range of gear and supplies
- Be aware of noise considerations
- Bring a camera and binoculars
- Follow the campground’s rules and regulations