The State of Alaska maintains 120 state parks, including recreation areas and historic parks. Those around Alaska’s most accessible mountains and glaciers are frequented by many travelers and locals year-round. But some of the parks are a little more remote, and they don’t receive as much attention from the public. Here are some of these lesser-known State Parks to visit in Alaska, that protect the beautiful parts of our states’ wild land and wilderness. These are a little off the beaten path, but they are definitely worth the journey. Visit these absurdly gorgeous, lesser-known state parks in Alaska, in no particular order.

1. Chilkat State Park, near Haines
Chilkat State Park, Haines, AK 99827, USA
~dgies | Flickr
The temperate rainforest forest rises majestically in the lush island parks of Southeast. Chilkat State Park is a Marine Park near Haines, and is a staggeringly beautiful place to explore. If you’re in the area, you’re definitely going to want to do some exploring. Check out this entire selection of trails in Chilkat State Park if you want to do some serious exploring in this gorgeous southeastern Alaskan rainforest.
2. St. James Bay State Marine Park, near Juneau
Saint James Bay State Marine Park, Haines, AK 99827, USA
Joseph | Flickr
On the west side of Lynn Channel, this gorgeous park has ample opportunities for outdoor recreation including fishing, hiking, boating and views for days. It’s 35 miles northwest of Juneau, and well worth the trip. Love the area and can’t bear leaving? Spend the night in the public use cabin nearby so you can extend your stay!
3. Wood-Tikchik State Park, near Dillingham
Wood-Tikchik State Park, Dillingham, AK 99576, USA
Travis | Flickr
This is Alaska's largest state park and the only one located in the western half of the state. It covers 1.6 million acres, and is actually the largest state park in all of the United States. The Wood River and Tikchik River are the major drainages in the system, with the gorgeous Wood River Mountains in the distance. You'll love the quiet, the fishing, and the endless skies in southwestern Alaska. It’s a remote park that isn’t easily accessible, and many people choose to float 130 miles of river to truly get a firsthand look at this beautiful park.
4. Sullivan Island State Marine Park, near Haines
Sullivan Island State Marine Park, Haines, AK 99827, USA
Joseph | Flickr
This area off the Lynn Canal is perfect for kayaking, and you can explore the shores with gear rented in nearby Haines, although it’s only recommended to explore solo if you have plenty of previous experience adventuring Alaska’s backcountry. It’s a beautiful place to explore the ocean, but the winds can be quite fierce. The island is open for exploration are year long. Book a tour with any of these fun adventure companies and get your gear and a guide!
5. Driftwood Bay State Marine Park, near Seward
Sullivan Island State Marine Park, Haines, AK 99827, USA
Nicholas D. | Flickr
Day Harbor is a rocky amphitheater located on the Kenai Peninsula. You'll adore the views from this area near Seward. There’s a small, rocky beach to explore, and is a quiet spot for beach camping. It is primarily a day-use park for activities on the water, and the wildlife viewing from the beach is spectacular.

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6. Shoup Bay State Marine Park, near Valdez
Shoup Bay State Marine Park, Valdez, AK 99686, USA
b k | Flickr
Within an hour's boat ride of Valdez, you can find this wonderful place for day recreation. Shoup Glacier is the focal point of the area you can visit by boat for a wonderful day of exploring Alaska's natural beauty. If you’d prefer to hike one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Alaska, hop on the Shoup Bay Trail, a lengthy but beautiful 10 mile round trip hike out to the glacier.
7. Big Delta State Historical Park, Delta
Big Delta State Historic Park, Historical Site Rd, Delta Junction, AK 99737, USA
J. Stephen Conn | Flickr
Check out Rika's Roadhouse, a unique example of the Alaskan historical roadhouses that covered the state and welcomed travelers throughout the 1900's. One of the best parks in Alaska to explore some of the historical aspects of our state, Big Delta State Historical Park is a great way to spend the day with your family. Don’t forget to stop by Rika's Roadhouse Café and Gift Shoppe for homemade sandwiches and baked goods.
8. Sealion Cove State Marine Park, near Sitka
Kruzof Island, Sitka, AK, USA
Mack Lundy | Flickr
On the north end of Kruzof Island, approximately 25 miles northwest of Sitka, you'll find a population of sealions! Take a boat to Kallinin Bay and explore the sandy beaches, see the sealions, and enjoy this beautiful corner of Alaska. If you’re looking for things to do outside in Alaska, a trip to Sealion Cove State Marine Park is a total winner. Camping is allowed if you’d like to spend the night, but there are no developed facilities. Please respect the wildlife and area by leaving no trace when you exit.
9. Beecher Pass State Marine Park, near Wrangell
Beecher Pass State Marine Park, Petersburg, AK 99833, USA
werner_chris | Flickr
Located on Big Saltery Island, you'll adore this beautiful 660 acres of undeveloped land. This spot is used extensively by the local community for hunting and fishing, and is a stunning area to visit. There is a public use cabin for visitors that you can reserve. One of the most underrated, yet best state parks in Alaska, this beautiful place is quiet and peaceful.
10. Moon Lake State Recreation Area
Moon Lake State Recreation Site, Moon Lake State Recreation Site Rd, Tanacross, AK 99776, USA
Kelly | Flickr
This beautiful lake in the interior is ringed with campsites and is a perfect place to escape in the summer months. Fishing, swimming and camping are perfect ways to enjoy this pristine area. Located just 15 miles northwest of Tok, this is a popular getaway for Alaskan locals. Camp, host a picnic, or break out those water skis. You may even see some float planes land, making it a uniquely Alaskan experience. Make sure to bring enough cash for your campsite fee.

More information on Alaska State Parks here.

If you like these state parks, check out Some Of The Least Visited National Parks In The Country Are In Alaska And They’re Incredibly Beautiful.

How many of these lesser-known state parks to visit in Alaska have you been to? Which one is your favorite? Is there one we left off of the list? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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More to Explore

State Parks To Visit In Alaska

Megan McDonald | February 08, 2022

How many state parks are in Alaska?

Alaska has 156 park units throughout the state, including state parks, monuments, historical parks, national parks, and preserves. This state is teeming with natural beauty and historical and cultural significance, and there’s so much to see!

 

How many national parks are in Alaska?

There are eight fantastic national parks in Alaska, one of which is the largest national park in America. Wrangell-St Elias National Park is the largest national park in America, coming in at 13.2 million acres large.

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