🌤 Weather at Magoun Islands State Marine Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 32–58 °F | 48–65 °F | 35–59 °F | 31–41 °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 Ketchikan 10N, 11 mi away, elevation 295 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Ketchikan Islands — Island group in Clarence Strait near Ketchikan with rainforest and marine wildlife
Magoun Islands State Marine Park protects a group of small islands in Clarence Strait near Ketchikan. The islands feature typical Southeast Alaska temperate rainforest, rocky shorelines with tide pools, and sheltered passages between islands ideal for kayaking. Seabird colonies, bald eagles, harbor seals, and passing humpback whales are commonly seen.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Clarence Strait, near Ketchikan, AK |
| Access | Boat or kayak |
| Entry Fee | Free |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these good for kayaking?
Excellent — the sheltered passages between islands offer protected paddling. Be prepared for Southeast Alaska rain and tidal currents. Wet/dry suits recommended for cold water.
About Magoun Islands
Magoun Islands State Marine Park in the northern Prince William Sound protects a group of small islands surrounded by glacial waters. The islands provide sheltered anchorage and camping in a region where tidewater glaciers still calve icebergs into the sea. The surrounding waters are home to humpback whales, orcas, and sea otters.
Magoun Islands State Marine Park protects a group of islands in Prince William Sound that provide sheltered anchorage and primitive camping for kayakers and boaters exploring the sound’s western reaches. The islands are home to bald eagles, harbor seals, and visiting humpback whales. Prince William Sound’s marine parks form a network of wilderness campsites accessible only by water — the ocean equivalent of backcountry hiking.
Things to Do
Island camping, sea kayaking among the islands, whale watching, glacier viewing, wildlife photography, and fishing for salmon and halibut. Access by boat from Whittier or Valdez.
Island camping, kayaking through the island group, wildlife watching, fishing, beachcombing for marine treasures, and connecting marine park campsites on multi-day kayak trips.
Nearby state parks: If you have extra time, Grindall Island State Marine Park is a short drive away, and Settlers Cove State Recreation Site is a short drive away.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Alaska state parks online at alaskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🛶 Visit Magoun Islands SMP
Rainforest islands — kayaking and whale watching in Clarence Strait near Ketchikan.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Magoun Islands 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 Magoun Islands 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 Magoun Islands State Marine Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
