Magoun Island

Magoun Island State Marine Park protects a forested island in the waters of Southeast Alaska. The marine park provides primitive camping and anchorage in the island-rich waters of the Alexander Archipelago. The park offers authentic island wilderness experiences accessible by boat from nearby communities.

The island supports black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and smaller mammals typical of Southeast Alaska. Harbor seals and sea otters frequent surrounding waters, while eagles nest in the tall trees. Salmon pass through adjacent waters during seasonal migrations, attracting marine predators.

Old-growth temperate rainforest covers the island, with Sitka spruce and western hemlock forming the canopy. The understory features dense devil's club, salmonberry, and ferns. Moss covers every surface in the wet maritime climate. Rocky shorelines support intertidal marine communities.

Magoun Island consists of the metamorphic and volcanic rocks typical of the Alexander Archipelago, formed as oceanic terranes were added to North America. Glacial erosion shaped the island during the ice ages, and wave action continues to modify the shoreline.

Maritime climate brings mild temperatures and abundant precipitation year-round. Summer temperatures typically reach the 50s-60s°F while winters rarely experience extreme cold. Rain is possible any day, with annual totals often exceeding 100 inches.

Tlingit peoples have utilized islands throughout the archipelago for countless generations. The complex waterways served as transportation routes and resource areas. The island's name reflects the layered history of indigenous and European American presence in Southeast Alaska.

Magoun Island State Marine Park was established to preserve public access to island camping and anchorage. The marine park provides wilderness recreation opportunities in a region where much land is in federal or private ownership.

Island exploration and primitive camping are the primary activities. Old-growth forest hiking offers immersion in the rainforest ecosystem. Wildlife viewing includes bears, deer, and marine mammals. The remote setting provides genuine solitude.

The marine park provides primitive camping and anchorage. No developed facilities exist; visitors must be fully self-sufficient. Access is by boat or kayak from nearby Southeast Alaska communities.

The marine park protects old-growth forest and natural shorelines. Leave-no-trace practices are essential for preserving the island's wilderness character.