Hey there campers and welcome to my post where we will take a look at my 10 best campsites in Alaska. Now, we all know the joys that camping can bring, from experiencing the great outdoors, to time with family and of course, just doing nothing around the campfire. But where should you go?
There are of course so many different options out there so if you looking for a good campsite in Alaska, or have one in mind but are not sure what it has to offer, here are 10 good options below.
Let’s check them out…
10 Best Campsites in Alaska
Often referred to as “The Last Frontier”, Alaska is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes and pristine wilderness areas in the United States. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts offering a wealth of opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and, of course, camping. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide where to pitch your tent. Here are some good suggestions for you.
1. Denali National Park and Preserve – Riley Creek Campground
Denali National Park and Preserve, home to the highest peak in North America in Mount Denali. At the heart of this iconic park, you’ll find Riley Creek Campground which a fantastic base for exploring the stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife that Denali has to offer. Amenities and Facilities
The campground offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay including over 140 campsites for both tent and RV, many of which come equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. Other amenities include flush toilets, potable water and a dump station for RVs. There’s also a well-stocked mercantile nearby, where you can purchase groceries, firewood, and other camping essentials as well.
In addition, the park’s shuttle bus system stops at the campground, making it simple to explore the park’s vast landscapes and reach popular trailheads. This makes it the perfect base for exploring the many recreational opportunities available in Denali National Park and hiking enthusiasts will find a variety of trails nearby ranging from short, easy strolls to more challenging backcountry adventures. Popular trails here include the Horseshoe Lake Trail, Triple Lakes Trail and the challenging Mount Healy Overlook Trail.
If you’re interested in wildlife viewing, the park is home to an incredible array of animals, including grizzly bears, caribou, Dall sheep, and moose. The shuttle bus system can take you to prime wildlife viewing spots along the park road, or you can join a guided bus tour to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna from an expert.
Book your campsite here.
2. Chugach National Forest – Williwaw Campground
Located off the scenic Seward Highway, approximately 48 miles south of Anchorage and nestled in the heart of the magnificent Chugach National Forest, Williwaw Campground is a serene and picturesque destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Surrounded by pristine glaciers, lush forests and crystal-clear streams, this idyllic campground offers a unique opportunity to experience Alaska’s breathtaking beauty while enjoying a wide range of recreational activities.
The campground features 60 campsites suitable for tents and RVs, many of which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring and picnic table providing a comfortable and convenient space to relax after a day of exploration. There is also access to vault toilets, potable water and bear-proof food storage lockers for your convenience and safety.
With its prime location in the heart of Chugach National Forest, Williwaw Campground offers a plethora of recreational opportunities. Anglers will appreciate the excellent fishing opportunities in Williwaw Creek, which teems with salmon during spawning season and the nearby Portage Valley also provides opportunities for canoeing and kayaking as well as birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Hikers will be delighted by the nearby Trail of Blue Ice, a 5-mile, multi-use path that meanders through the stunning Portage Valley and offers panoramic views of glaciers, mountains and wetlands. This relatively flat trail is suitable for all skill levels and is also accessible by bike as well. For a more challenging hike, consider the nearby Byron Glacier Trail, a 1.4-mile out-and-back trail that takes you to the base of Byron Glacier.
Book your campsite here.
3. Kenai Fjords National Park – Exit Glacier Campground
Situated near the edge of the Harding Icefield, Exit Glacier Campground is located just off Exit Glacier Road, approximately 12 miles from the town of Seward. The campground is designed to provide a rustic camping experience and features 12 walk-in tent sites, each equipped with a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring. On-site facilities include vault toilets, potable water and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure the safety of both campers and wildlife.
Exit Glacier Campground is perfectly situated for exploring the many attractions of Kenai Fjords National Park where just a short walk from the campground, you’ll find the Exit Glacier, a striking river of ice that descends from the Harding Icefield. The nearby Exit Glacier Nature Center offers educational exhibits, guided walks, and ranger-led programs to help you learn more about the park’s unique glacial environment.
Hiking enthusiasts will find an array of trails accessible from the campground, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. The Exit Glacier Outwash Plain Trail, a flat 1-mile loop, offers stunning views of the glacier and the surrounding landscape or for a more challenging experience, consider tackling the Harding Icefield Trail, an 8.2-mile round-trip hike that ascends above the tree line to reveal panoramic views of the sprawling icefield.
In addition to hiking and glacier viewing, Kenai Fjords National Park offers a wealth of other recreational opportunities including wildlife watching, birding and sea kayaking. Also keep an eye out for the diverse array of marine life that inhabits the park’s fjords such as whales, seals, sea lions and seabirds as well.
The campground is open seasonally, typically from late May to early September and it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
4. Wrangell-St. Elias National Park – Kendesnii Campground
Situated off the Nabesna Road in the northern region of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Kendesnii Campground provides a rustic and secluded camping experience while still offering essential amenities for a comfortable stay. The campground features 10 spacious campsites, accommodating both tents and small RVs and each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets and potable water are available on-site for your convenience however there are no electrical hookups or dump stations at this campground.
Kendesnii Campground serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the many recreational opportunities available in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park including a vast network of hiking trails for all skill levels. Nearby trails include the Caribou Creek Trail, Lost Creek Trail and Copper Lake Trail, each offering unique opportunities to experience the park’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
In addition to hiking, Wrangell-St. Elias National Park is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities where you’ll find a variety of fish species, including Salmon, Grayling, and Dolly Varden. Additionally, for those interested in the park’s rich history, a visit to the nearby historic mining sites such as the Kennecott Mines National Historic Landmark is a must as well.
The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is open seasonally – typically from late May to September. It’s also important to note that the road conditions can be rough and may require a high-clearance vehicle.
5. Seward Waterfront Park and Campground
Conveniently located just off the Seward Highway, Seward Waterfront Park and Campground, Seward Waterfront Park and Campground is set on the picturesque shores of Resurrection Bay. It provides for stunning views, easy access to the beach and a short walk to the charming town of Seward.
The campground itself features a variety of camping options to accommodate different preferences including tent sites, RV sites with and without hookups and dry camping areas. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring and many sites offer panoramic views of the bay and surrounding mountains. There is also a good range of other amenities including restrooms, showers, potable water and a dump station for RV campers.
Seward Waterfront Park and Campground’s prime location along Resurrection Bay offers numerous recreational opportunities where campers can enjoy beachcombing, kayaking or paddleboarding in the bay’s calm waters. Alternatively, simply relax on the shoreline where there are frequent sightings of sea otters, seals, sea lions and a variety of seabirds as well.
For those interested in exploring the surrounding area, the nearby Kenai Fjords National Park offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities and the charming town of Seward is just a short walk from the campground, offering a range of attractions and amenities too.
Book your campsite here.
6. Kachemak Bay State Park – Halibut Cove Lagoon Campground
Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Kachemak Bay State Park, Alaska’s first state park, Halibut Cove Lagoon Campground offers a secluded retreat for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path camping experience. Accessible only by boat or floatplane, this remote campground provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the Alaskan wilderness, with abundant wildlife encounters, breathtaking views, and a true sense of seclusion.
The campground is designed to provide a rustic and remote camping experience, offering a limited number of tent sites with basic amenities. Each campsite features a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring allowing you to fully connect with the surrounding natural environment. On-site facilities include vault toilets, bear-proof food storage lockers and a water source (note that water must be treated or boiled before consumption).
With its pristine location in Kachemak Bay State Park, Halibut Cove Lagoon Campground offers a wealth of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park boasts a variety of hiking trails, ranging from leisurely strolls to challenging treks, with many trails offering stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and the bay. Popular trails in the area include the Grewingk Glacier Lake Trail, China Poot Lake Trail, and the Poot Peak Trail.
The waters of Kachemak Bay are teeming with marine life, making the park a prime destination for kayaking, wildlife watching and fishing. Paddle along the coastline, exploring hidden coves and inlets, or cast a line in the bay’s rich waters for a chance to catch Salmon, Halibut or Rockfish.
Book your campsite here.
7. Katmai National Park – Brooks Camp Campground
Situated on the shores of Naknek Lake within Katmai National Park, Brooks Camp Campground is another one accessible only by floatplane or boat. This unique campground offers visitors the chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of bears fishing for Salmon in their natural habitat as well as enjoy the park’s stunning volcanic landscapes and fascinating history.
The campground features 60 tent sites, each equipped with a tent pad, picnic table and food storage locker to ensure the safety of both campers and wildlife. Due to its remote location and focus on conservation, there are no RV sites or electrical hookups available at this campground however on-site facilities do include vault toilets, potable water and a central fire pit for shared use.
As above, one of the main attraction of Brooks Camp Campground is the opportunity to witness the park’s famous brown bears fishing for Salmon at the nearby Brooks Falls. A series of elevated viewing platforms allows visitors to safely observe these magnificent creatures in action, providing a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
In addition to bear viewing, Katmai National Park offers a wealth of other recreational opportunities including the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, a vast ash-filled valley created by the 1912 eruption of Novarupta volcano. Hiking trails in the area range from short walks to multi-day treks, with options suitable for all skill levels.
Fishing enthusiasts will also find the waters of Naknek Lake and Brooks River teeming with Salmon, Trout and other fish species and for bird watchers, the opportunity to sight a few of the over 200 species of birds documented within its boundaries.
Book your campsite here.
8. Mendenhall Glacier Campground – Juneau
Situated just 12 miles from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier Campground is easily accessible by car via Mendenhall Loop Road. Set within the lush Tongass National Forest and adjacent to the iconic Mendenhall Glacier, this scenic campground provides an ideal base for exploring the area’s many natural wonders, while still offering convenient access to the amenities and attractions of Juneau.
As a campground, it offers a variety of camping options to accommodate different preferences, including tent sites, RV sites with and without electrical hookups and walk-in tent sites for those seeking a more secluded experience. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring with many offering stunning views of the glacier and surrounding landscape.
There is also a range of amenities including restrooms, potable water and a dump station for RV campers with a covered pavilion and group picnic area also available for shared use.
The main attraction of Mendenhall Glacier Campground is, of course, the stunning Mendenhall Glacier itself. A short walk from the campground leads to the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, where you can learn about the glacier’s formation, history, and the local ecology. The center also offers panoramic views of the glacier and access to several scenic trails, including the Photo Point Trail, Nugget Falls Trail, and the more challenging West Glacier Trail.
In addition to glacier exploration, the surrounding Tongass National Forest offers a wealth of recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife watching and fishing. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife species including black bears, bald eagles and spawning Salmon in season.
Book your campsite here.
9. Quartz Lake State Recreation Area – Delta Junction
Located approximately 10 miles north of Delta Junction off the Richardson Highway, Quartz Lake State Recreation Area is a serene lakeside retreat in Alaska’s Interior. This picturesque campground offers an idyllic setting for camping, fishing, boating and wildlife watching, all set against the backdrop of Quartz Lake’s crystal-clear waters and the surrounding boreal forest.
Quartz Lake State Recreation Area offers a variety of camping options to suit different preferences including tent sites, RV sites with and without electrical hookups and ADA-accessible sites. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring and many sites offer scenic views of the lake and surrounding forest.
The campground also provides a range of amenities, including restrooms, potable water and a dump station for RV campers. A boat launch, picnic shelters, and a sandy beach are also available for shared use.
The lake’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for boating, canoeing, kayaking and swimming and the sandy beach provides a relaxing spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply taking in the stunning lake views. Fishing enthusiasts will find Quartz Lake teeming with a variety of fish species, including Rainbow Trout, Arctic Char and Silver Salmon.
The surrounding boreal forest and wetlands also provide ample opportunities for wildlife watching and birding with frequent sightings of Moose, Beavers, waterfowl, and songbirds. Several hiking trails are available within the park, offering leisurely strolls or more challenging treks through the diverse forest and wetland habitats as well.
Book your campsite here.
10. Eagle River Campground – Chugach State Park
Located just 12 miles north of Anchorage off the Glenn Highway, Eagle River Campground offers a scenic wilderness gateway for campers seeking a convenient yet immersive Alaskan experience. With its prime location along the banks of the Eagle River, this picturesque campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the park’s diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and numerous recreational opportunities.
The campground features a variety of camping options to suit different preferences including tent sites, RV sites with and without electrical hookups and ADA-accessible sites. Each campsite comes with a picnic table and fire ring and many sites provide captivating views of the Eagle River and the surrounding mountains. The campground offers a range of amenities, including restrooms, potable water and a dump station for RV campers. Additionally, visitors can enjoy picnic shelters, a playground and access to the Eagle River Nature Center for shared use.
The park features over 280 miles of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels, from leisurely strolls along the river to challenging treks through the rugged mountain terrain. Fishing enthusiasts can also take advantage of the Eagle River’s abundant fish populations, including Salmon, Dolly Varden and Arctic Grayling.
Wildlife watching is a popular activity in the area with frequent sightings of moose, black bears, bald eagles and various bird species. The river is also suitable for rafting and kayaking, providing opportunities for water-based adventures as well.
Book your campsite here.
Conclusion
There you have it, my best campsites in Alaska. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
