Starrigavan Recreation Area
Scenic USFS recreation area with bay-view picnic sites, fire rings, and convenient amenities near Sitka.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gates open until 9 PM
Starrigavan Recreation Area
Best Time
Gates open until 9 PM
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic USFS recreation area with bay-view picnic sites, fire rings, and convenient amenities near Sitka.
"Beautiful bay views from picnic sites with fire rings, but mind the strict sunset gate closures!"
⏰ Check Gate Hours
Gates close at sunset, varying by season. Plan accordingly to avoid being locked in!
🐻 Bear Sightings Possible
Be aware of wildlife. Brown bears have been spotted in the area.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Beachfront Picnic Sites
Along the bay
Enjoy stunning bay views from picnic sites with fire rings, perfect for a beachside cookout.
Wooded Picnic Areas
Near the shelter
Secluded picnic spots nestled in the woods, offering a peaceful atmosphere with nearby fire rings.
Bay Views
Throughout the recreation area
Panoramic vistas of the bay provide a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor activity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand Park Hours
Picnic Site Convenience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Check Gate Hours
Gates close at sunset, varying by season. Plan accordingly to avoid being locked in! +1
🐻 Bear Sightings Possible
Be aware of wildlife. Brown bears have been spotted in the area.
🚗 Convenient Parking
Ample parking is available near picnic sites and restrooms.
🔥 Fire Rings Provided
Each picnic site has fire rings, perfect for cooking or a campfire.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Check Gate Hours
Gates close at sunset, varying by season. Plan accordingly to avoid being locked in! +1
🐻 Bear Sightings Possible
Be aware of wildlife. Brown bears have been spotted in the area.
🚗 Convenient Parking
Ample parking is available near picnic sites and restrooms.
🔥 Fire Rings Provided
Each picnic site has fire rings, perfect for cooking or a campfire.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Starrigavan Recreation Area for its beautiful bay-view picnic sites, each equipped with fire rings both on the beach and in wooded areas. The convenience of nearby restrooms and ample parking is also a significant plus, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. However, the strict gate closing times, which vary by season and can be earlier than expected, are a common point of concern, potentially leading to inconvenient situations if visitors are caught unaware.
"The picnic sites at Starrigaven are beautiful overlooking the bay each one (site) having two fire rings on in the wooded area near the shelter and another on the beach. Each site is super close to the bathrooms and a larger parking area making it a convenient gathering spot. I would like to correct another person’s review below. Starrigaven is NOT a state park but a Federal Park under the care of the USFS so the rules and hours will differ. Vehicle access to the roads ends when the sunsets or close to it for example in September it will close around 7 pm but in November it will close at 4 pm. During April and August, it will close around 8 pm (9 pm late May) all gates are marked with the gate hours. The USFS has a host cabin onsite when occupied the representative will be more than happy to unlock the gate for anyone accidentally locked in."
GG Tucker
"Hours limited... State park started locking gates at 8PM... should be 10PM.. if you car gets locked in... long walk back to town"
George Burnstein
"Saw a brown bear twice at our cabin"
J M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Starrigavan Recreation Area is located near Sitka, Alaska. Access is typically via local roads from Sitka. The area is managed by the US Forest Service (USFS).
No, Starrigavan is not a state park. It is a Federal Park managed by the US Forest Service (USFS), so rules and hours may differ from state parks.
From Sitka, follow Airport Road towards the Sitka Rocky Gutierrez Airport. Starrigavan is located just past the airport, accessible via a well-marked road.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on specific fees is not readily available, but as a USFS managed area, day-use fees or permits might apply. It's best to check with the USFS for current pricing.
Vehicle access roads close at sunset, with closing times varying by season. For example, expect closures around 4 PM in November and 9 PM in late May. Gates are clearly marked with hours.
If you accidentally get locked in, there is an onsite USFS host cabin. The representative can unlock the gate for you if they are present. Otherwise, it's a long walk back to town.
While specific reservation details aren't provided, the picnic sites are described as convenient gathering spots, suggesting they are available on a first-come, first-served basis unless otherwise noted by the USFS.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Starrigavan is ideal for picnicking, enjoying bay views, and potentially wildlife viewing. The picnic sites are a major draw for gatherings.
Yes, restrooms are conveniently located near the picnic sites, making it a comfortable spot for day use.
Absolutely! Each picnic site is equipped with fire rings, allowing for campfires and cooking.
Yes, there have been reports of brown bear sightings in the area, so keep an eye out for local wildlife.
The area features both wooded sections and beach access, with picnic sites situated to offer views of the bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Starrigavan Recreation Area is primarily a day-use area focused on outdoor activities like picnicking. There are no restaurants on-site, but picnic sites are equipped for cooking.
Yes, each picnic site comes with fire rings, making it perfect for grilling or cooking meals outdoors.
Bring your own food, drinks, and any cooking supplies you'll need for the fire rings. Don't forget essentials like trash bags to pack out what you pack in.
📸 📸 Photography
The beachfront picnic sites offer stunning bay views, especially during sunrise or sunset. The wooded areas also provide scenic backdrops.
Capture beautiful coastal landscapes, wildlife (if you're lucky!), and candid moments of friends and family enjoying the picnic areas.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the area offers beautiful bay views, it's important to supervise children closely, especially near the water and any wooded areas. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as bear sightings have been reported, and teach children about respecting nature and maintaining a safe distance.
🚗 Day-Trippers
Pack a picnic, enjoy the bay views, and perhaps even spot some local wildlife. It’s a straightforward and enjoyable stop that provides a taste of Alaska's natural beauty without requiring extensive planning.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding USFS Management and Hours
This USFS management also influences the overall feel and amenities of the area. While not a full-service park, it provides essential facilities like restrooms and well-maintained picnic sites. Understanding that it's a federal recreation area helps set expectations regarding services and operational policies, ensuring a smoother visit for everyone.
Picnic Site Experience
Accessibility is another strong point, with each picnic site being conveniently close to both restrooms and a larger parking area. This thoughtful layout makes Starrigavan a popular choice for group events and family outings. Whether you're planning a casual lunch or a more elaborate cookout, the amenities at these picnic sites are designed to enhance your outdoor enjoyment.
Social
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