Jack Bay State Marine Park

Explore Alaska, the country's last truly wild kingdom, with a stay at Jack Bay State Marine Park. Located outside of Valdez on the state's southern shore, this fascinating nature preserve is a haven for outdoorsmen.

Untamed wilderness

Huge tracts of Alaska are kept uninhabited, lending the state its reputation as a place for people who love the woods. Just outside of the town of Valdez on Prince William Sound rests Jack Bay, a charming little body of water that is easily accessible through Jack Bay State Marine Park.

Camp out

Long-term camping is the order of the day here, once you make the effort to get out to Jack Bay, you want to take a few days to appreciate the area. The best site is actually on a small island in the middle of the bay. Bring your own boat to get there, but it is an incredible spot. The sense of stillness at night is unbelievable, and the clear skies are perfect for stargazing.

Things to do

The primary activities at Jack Bay are hiking and fishing. The spruce and alder forests that surround the campsites are home to a wide variety of animals, and you are often the only person on the trail all day. Anglers cast into Prince William Sound eagerly, but the catch is sometimes uneven. Just floating out on the bay is worthwhile enough.

A trip to Jack Bay State Marine Park is not an excursion for people who want to get coddled in the woods. If you are up for the challenge, it is an incredibly rewarding experience.