Museums & culture
Kusawa Territorial Park
2 min read
Turquoise Kusawa Lake bounded by steep Coast Mountain peaks
Kusawa is Whitehorse's backyard big-lake park. The lake itself is 75 km long, glacier-fed, and hemmed in by 2,000-metre peaks of the Coast Mountains. It is the traditional territory and cultural heart of the Kwanlin Dün, Champagne and Aishihik, and Carcross/Tagish First Nations, who co-manage the park. The 45-site campground at the north end sits on a fine sand-and-cobble beach with a boat launch, day-use area and mostly-level tent pads. It is the closest 'real' Yukon backcountry lake to town.
Locals come for lake trout fishing, canoe touring toward the head of the lake (a serious 5-7 day round trip), and fall trumpeter swan watching. The 24 km gravel access road from the Alaska Highway is fine for any car in summer but rough after rain. Cell service ends at the turnoff. Fill up on gas, groceries and a fishing licence in Whitehorse — there is nothing between Whitehorse and the campground except the highway junction store at Champagne.
Hours
Campground mid-May to mid-Sep
Day-use area open 24/7 year-round
Boat launch open ice-free season, typically Jun-Oct
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost?
Day-use is free. Camping is $20/night per site, cash or exact debit at the self-registration kiosk. Yukon anglers licence for non-residents is $20/day or $50/season.
Are there free-entry days?
The day-use area is always free. Camping fees apply every night the campground is open.
How long to visit?
Half day for a swim and picnic, full day if you launch a canoe. Overnight campers usually stay 2-3 nights.
When is it closed?
The campground closes mid-September and reopens mid-May. The day-use gate and lake access stay open year-round for ice fishing and skiing.
Do I need to book?
Yes for weekends in July-August — reserve at Yukon.ca/camping starting the first week of April. Weekdays are usually walk-in fine.
How do I get there?
Drive 60 km northwest from Whitehorse on the Alaska Highway to Km 1543, then 24 km south on the Kusawa Lake Road. No transit; rental car required.
Where to stay
Rooms worth pairing with this guide.
Ready to plan this trip?
Real prices for the places this piece names.
