Shoup Bay State Marine Park is a public state park in Alaska near Valdez in Unorganized Borough County. Spanning 4,560 acres and established in 1983, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Alaska |
| Nearest City | Valdez |
| County | Unorganized Borough |
| Park Size | 4,560 acres |
| Established | 1983 |
Location & Getting There
Shoup Bay State Marine Park is located near Valdez, Alaska. The park’s coordinates are 61.1381, -146.5900.
Things to Do
Alaska state parks protect some of the most pristine wilderness left in North America — from tidewater glaciers and massive ice fields to boreal forests, volcanic peaks, and vast tundra. Activities include hiking through untouched wilderness, fishing for all five species of Pacific salmon, kayaking among icebergs and through fjords, camping in truly wild settings, wildlife viewing for bears, moose, caribou, and whales, cross-country skiing on groomed winter trails, stargazing under northern lights (aurora borealis), and river floating through roadless backcountry.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June–August) is the primary season, offering extended daylight (up to 22 hours), accessible trails, peak salmon runs, and the best overall weather. July and August are warmest. Fall (September) brings spectacular tundra color and the first aurora appearances. Winter offers northern lights viewing, dog mushing, and Nordic skiing for the adventurous, but most park facilities close. Spring (May) is thaw season — trails can be icy and muddy.
Visitor Tips
Alaska state parks charge day-use parking fees at most trailheads ($5-$10). Annual parking pass available ($60). Camping is often first-come, first-served. Bear safety is mandatory — carry bear spray, use bear-proof food containers, and know how to respond to bear encounters. Weather changes rapidly — bring rain gear and warm layers even in summer. Many parks are accessible only by boat or bush plane. Mosquitoes and biting flies are legendary from June through August — bring head nets and strong DEET repellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Alaska state parks?
Day-use parking fees vary by location but typically range from $5-$15 per vehicle. Annual parking permits are available. Some remote parks have no fees but also no services.
Do I need bear protection at Alaska state parks?
Yes, bear spray is essential at most Alaska state parks. Both black bears and brown/grizzly bears are common. Store food in bear-resistant containers, cook away from your tent, and make noise while hiking.
What are the best state parks in Alaska?
Chugach (near Anchorage), Denali (southern approach to Denali), Kachemak Bay (Homer area), Chilkat Bald Eagle Preserve (largest eagle gathering), and Wood-Tikchik (largest state park in the US at 1.6 million acres).
What is the best time to visit Alaska state parks?
June through August offers the warmest weather and longest days (up to 20 hours of daylight). July is typically the warmest month. September brings fall colors and northern lights. Most facilities close from October through April.
Explore More Alaska State Parks
Shoup Bay State Marine Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Alaska. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Alaska guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Jack Bay State Marine Park (a short drive away) or Sawmill Bay State Marine Park (a short drive away).
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Shoup Bay 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 Shoup Bay 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 Shoup Bay State Marine Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
