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Tongass Home » Districts & Offices » Sitka

Starrigavan Artesian Well

The well is located within the Estuary Loop, the main camping loop of Starrigavan Recreation Area. To encourage safe and a reasonably quiet camping environment in that loop, vehicle access is restricted to camping vehicles and vehicles assessing the artesian well. A NO THRU TRAFFIC sign is posted at the entrance to the loop to inform visitors of what vehicles may enter. Vehicle assess hours differ during the various seasons of the year.

  • Peak Camping Season - May 1 through late August vehicle access to the well is limited to 9 a.m. through 9 p.m. except for emergency closures due to high bear activity or road maintenance issues. Late August through September 30 vehicle access is 9 a.m. until about 7 or 8 p.m. (or gates close before dark).
  • Non Peak Season - October 1 through April 30 vehicle access to the well is limited to 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily as long as there is no snow or ice on the roadway.
  • At any time - Access is possible by walking in to the well.

Where to find current vehicle access information?

  • At the information board adjacent to the well.
  • At both gates entering the Estuary Loop where the well is located.
  • By calling the Forest Service Pre-Recorded Information Line 747-6685 anytime.
  • By calling the Starrigavan Recreation Area manager at 747-4216, M-F, 7a.m. to 3:30p.m.

Why is vehicle access to the well limited?

  • The Estuary Loop where the artesian well is located in the main camping area for Starrigavan. It must be managed to maintain the safe, quiet and private camping experience/environment expected by campers.
  • Excessive non camping vehicle traffic disrupts the camping experience and environment at any time of the year as camping and use of Starrigavan Creek Cabin is allowed at all times of the year.

Who do I call for questions regarding the artesian well?

The Starrigavan Recreation Area manager at (907) 747-4216, M-F, 7a.m. to 3:30p.m.

USDA Forest Service - Tongass National Forest Accessibility Statement
Last Modified: September 09, 2011


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