Yukon officials have outlined a five-year development plan to enhance Pine Lake Campground, a popular site located near Haines Junction.
The proposal, submitted to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board (YESAB), aims to increase the campground’s capacity and improve its recreational infrastructure, reflecting growing visitor numbers in recent years.
The proposed upgrades include the construction of 16 vehicle-accessible campsites, requiring approximately 350 meters of additional roadway.
Six new walk-in campsites with tent pads will also be added, providing more options for visitors seeking a more rustic camping experience. These new sites will feature standard amenities such as fire pits, picnic tables, and site posts, according to the government’s submission.
To enhance the overall visitor experience, the Yukon government plans to install a nine-hole disc golf course within the Pine Creek trail network.
The course will be integrated into existing trails, creating a recreational draw for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, foot access paths will connect walk-in campsites to nearby parking areas, ensuring ease of access while maintaining a sense of seclusion for campers.
According to an article published by Yukon News on January 10, infrastructure improvements will also include the development of a year-round multi-use trail measuring 1,500 meters. The Pine Creek trail will be re-routed to a shorter 600-meter path, with plans to install a footbridge or boardwalk across low-lying areas prone to water accumulation.
Trail surfaces will be reinforced with wood chips or geotextiles to ensure durability and ease of use in varying weather conditions.
A new campground kiosk and cultural installation are planned as part of the project. The cultural component may include a permanently affixed carving.
Additional site upgrades will see the installation of more outhouses, garbage receptacles, food storage lockers, and firewood boxes to enhance the campground’s functionality and address visitor needs.
According to government figures, Pine Lake Campground, located five kilometers from Haines Junction, recorded over 9,000 visitors in 2023—the highest since 2014. The increased demand aligns with the Yukon Parks 2020 Strategy, which aims to expand camping opportunities within the territory’s parks and campgrounds network. The planned upgrades are expected to address this demand while enhancing the site’s appeal.
Project timelines will be determined by regulatory approvals and available funding. Collaboration with Champagne and Aishihik First Nations (CAFN) is a key component of the plan, ensuring that the project aligns with community interests and respects local heritage. Engagement with CAFN will help determine the sequence and scope of the development phases.
The proposal emphasizes that Pine Lake Campground is a year-round destination, with peak activity during the snow-free months. In winter, locals use the area for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing on Pine Lake.
Currently, the campground offers 42 campsites, along with a boat launch, dock, and day-use area featuring a kitchen shelter, playground, fire pit, and lakefront beach. The planned upgrades will significantly expand the campground’s capacity while maintaining its appeal as a family-friendly destination.
