🌤 Weather at St. James Bay State Marine Park by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24–57 °F | 42–63 °F | 28–56 °F | 22–37 °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 Gustavus 2 NE, 23 mi away, elevation 20 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Lynn Canal Marine — Sheltered bay on Lynn Canal — North America’s longest and deepest fjord
St. James Bay State Marine Park protects a sheltered bay on the western shore of Lynn Canal between Juneau and Haines. Lynn Canal is North America’s longest (over 60 miles) and deepest (over 2,000 feet) fjord. The park provides calm anchorage surrounded by Sitka spruce rainforest, with views across the canal to the Chilkat Range. Humpback whales, Steller sea lions, and harbor porpoises frequent the waters.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Lynn Canal, AK (between Juneau & Haines) |
| Access | Boat |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Fjord | Lynn Canal (longest/deepest in N. America) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Lynn Canal special?
At over 60 miles long and 2,000+ feet deep, Lynn Canal is North America’s longest and deepest fjord. The steep-walled channel funnels powerful tidal currents and weather — check marine forecasts before crossing.
What is the Alaska Marine Highway?
Alaska’s state ferry system connects 33 communities across 3,500 miles of coast — from Bellingham, Washington to Dutch Harbor in the Aleutians. It’s one of the great sea voyages in the world and the only way to reach many Southeast Alaska towns.
More parks nearby: Sullivan Island State Marine Park is a short drive away, while Point Bridget State Park lies within about an hour’s drive.
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Alaska state parks online at alaskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🏔️ Visit St. James Bay SMP
North America’s deepest fjord — sheltered bay on Lynn Canal with whales and mountain views.
About St. James Bay
St. James Bay State Marine Park near Juneau protects a scenic bay on the Lynn Canal, accessible by boat from Alaska’s capital. The bay offers camping in old-growth temperate rainforest with abundant wildlife. Humpback whales and Steller sea lions frequent the nearby waters, and brown bears forage along the shoreline.
Things to Do
Camping in the old-growth forest, whale watching, bear viewing from a safe distance, sea kayaking, fishing, and exploring the Inside Passage. Access by boat or kayak from Juneau.
Insider Tips
Lynn Canal beauty: St. James Bay sits on Lynn Canal — North America’s longest and deepest fjord (90 miles long, 2,000 feet deep). Pro tip: The Alaska Marine Highway ferry from Juneau to Haines/Skagway passes through Lynn Canal — one of the most scenic ferry rides in the world. Photography: Snow-capped peaks rising directly from sea level create dramatic perspectives.
Best Time to Visit
June-August: Best boating weather. July: Humpback whales feeding in the canal. Fall: Bald eagles concentrate as salmon runs end. Winter: Spectacular but extreme conditions.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at St. James 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 St. James 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 St. James Bay State Marine Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
