🌤 Weather at Joe Mace Island State Marine Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32–58 °F | 49–64 °F | 34–58 °F | 29–38 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Wrangell Airport, 9 mi away, elevation 56 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Wrangell Islands Marine — Small island marine park near Wrangell in the Inside Passage
Joe Mace Island State Marine Park is a small island park near Wrangell in Alaska’s Inside Passage. The island provides beach camping, tide pool exploration, and sheltered waters for kayaking. The surrounding waters are rich with marine life including harbor seals, sea lions, and salmon — supporting a thriving bald eagle population.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Wrangell, AK (Inside Passage) |
| Access | Boat or kayak from Wrangell |
| Entry Fee | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is it from Wrangell?
The island is a short boat ride from Wrangell. Local charter operators can provide transport. Kayakers should be experienced with tidal currents in the Inside Passage.
About Joe Mace Island
Joe Mace Island State Marine Park near Ketchikan protects a small island in the waters of southern Southeast Alaska. The island provides camping and anchorage for boaters navigating the Inside Passage. The surrounding waters are rich with salmon, halibut, and crab.
Joe Mace Island State Marine Park protects an island in Prince William Sound’s island-studded western channels. The island provides primitive camping and kayak-accessible recreation in one of North America’s last truly wild marine environments. Prince William Sound supports over 200 bird species, 30 marine mammal species, and the southernmost tidewater glaciers on the Pacific Coast.
Things to Do
Island camping, fishing for salmon and halibut, crabbing, kayaking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. Access by boat from Ketchikan — a good waypoint for Inside Passage travelers.
Primitive island camping, kayaking, wildlife watching for whales, seals, and sea otters, fishing, beachcombing, and experiencing wilderness marine camping in Prince William Sound.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Thoms Place State Marine Park is a short drive away, and Beecher Pass State Marine Park is a short drive away.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Alaska state parks online at alaskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🏝️ Visit Joe Mace Island SMP
Inside Passage island — beach camping and tide pools near Wrangell.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Joe Mace Island State Marine Park
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Alaska State Parks and campgrounds when leashed and accompanied by the owner; unleashed dogs are allowed in the backcountry if under voice control.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash not exceeding 9 feet required in developed facilities (campgrounds, picnic areas, trailheads, swim beaches, boat ramps).
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- No statewide pet ban on beaches; swim beaches count as developed facilities where the 9-foot leash rule applies.
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- In the backcountry leashes are not required but pets must remain under voice control; in trapping areas (e.g. Chena River SRA) leashing is strongly advised for dog safety.
Are dogs allowed at Joe Mace Island State Marine Park?
Pets are welcome in Alaska State Parks and campgrounds when leashed and accompanied by the owner; unleashed dogs are allowed in the backcountry if under voice control. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via dnr.alaska.gov. More: Alaska state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Joe Mace Island State Marine Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
