Magoun Islands State Marine Park
Alaska

Magoun Islands State Marine Park

Available Activities
  • Wildlife Watching
  • Photography
  • Kayaking

๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ† Ketchikan Islands โ€” 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

DetailInformation
LocationClarence Strait, near Ketchikan, AK
AccessBoat or kayak
Entry FeeFree

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these good for kayaking?

Excellent โ€” 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.

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.

About Magoun Islands

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 โ€” the ocean equivalent of backcountry hiking.

Things to Do

Island camping, kayaking through the island group, wildlife watching, fishing, beachcombing for marine treasures, and connecting marine park campsites on multi-day kayak trips.

๐Ÿ›ถ Visit Magoun Islands SMP

Rainforest islands โ€” kayaking and whale watching in Clarence Strait near Ketchikan.

๐Ÿ“ AK State Parks

Sarah Mitchell

About the Author

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

Last updated: May 10, 2026

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