🌤 Weather at Thoms Place 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, 12 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 Marine — Sheltered marine park near Wrangell in the Stikine River delta
Thoms Place State Marine Park provides anchorage and beach camping near Wrangell in the Stikine River delta region. The Stikine River — one of the great undammed rivers of North America — creates a vast delta teeming with wildlife. The marine park provides access to excellent fishing, bird watching (especially during spring shorebird migration), and the historic Tlingit town of Wrangell.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Wrangell, AK (Stikine River delta) |
| Access | Boat from Wrangell |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| River | Stikine River (undammed) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Stikine River?
The Stikine is one of the last great undammed rivers in North America, flowing 330 miles from British Columbia to the sea near Wrangell. Spring migration brings millions of shorebirds to the delta — one of the most important staging areas on the Pacific Flyway.
How old are the Wrangell petroglyphs?
Wrangell’s Petroglyph Beach contains rock carvings estimated at 8,000+ years old — among the oldest evidence of human habitation in Southeast Alaska. The Tlingit people have inhabited this area for thousands of years.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Joe Mace Island State Marine Park (a short drive away) or Beecher Pass State Marine Park (a short drive away).
Camping reservations: Book campsites and cabins for Alaska state parks online at alaskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
🐦 Visit Thoms Place SMP
Stikine River delta — undammed wilderness river and Pacific Flyway birding near Wrangell.
About Thoms Place
Thoms Place State Marine Park near Wrangell in Southeast Alaska protects a sheltered cove and beach on the Inside Passage. The park provides camping and anchorage amid the ancient Tlingit homeland. The surrounding old-growth Tongass National Forest is the largest temperate rainforest in the world.
Things to Do
Camping in the temperate rainforest, boater anchorage, fishing for salmon and halibut, kayaking, wildlife viewing (bears, eagles, whales), and exploring the world’s largest temperate rainforest. Access by boat from Wrangell.
Insider Tips
Wrangell area: Thoms Place is accessible from Wrangell — one of Southeast Alaska’s most authentic and least touristed towns. Pro tip: Wrangell’s Petroglyph Beach has ancient rock carvings (8,000+ years old) — you can make rubbings with paper and crayon. Anan Bear Observatory: Book a permit for the nearby Anan Creek bear observatory — one of the best bear viewing sites in Alaska.
Best Time to Visit
July-August: Bear viewing at Anan Creek peaks. June: King salmon fishing. May: Shorebird migration. September: Silver salmon and fall colors.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Thoms Place 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 Thoms Place 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 Thoms Place State Marine Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
