Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Big Lake, AK is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Big Lake and user-submitted reviews.
Eagle River campground is located along the beautiful Eagle River. The campground has 57 sites with picnic tables, fire pits, water, latrines, flush toilets and dump station. Overflow camping area of 10 sites, and a Campground Host. Downtown Eagle River is a short 5 minutes from the campground and has all the amenities of a small town.
★ ADA Facility - Yes ★ 57 Campsites (see fee page) ★ No RV size limit ★ Camping Limit - 4 nights ★ Daily Parking Fee - (see fee page) ★ Toilets - ♿ ★ Water - ♿ ★ Picnic Sites ★ Picnic Shelter (1) ★ Sanitary Dump Station
Eklutna - Chugach State Park is a fantastic spot nestled just off the Glenn Highway, north of Anchorage. This place is a hidden wonder, especially during the autumn when the colors are simply breathtaking. The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations, making it a versatile choice for all kinds of campers.
The sites are first-come, first-served and are quite wooded, providing a good amount of privacy. However, the dense canopy might be a bit of a challenge if you're relying on solar power. The bathrooms are basic but clean, with vault toilets, and water is available at spigots throughout the campground loop.
One of the standout features here is Eklutna Lake, which is perfect for flat water paddling and fishing. Just be cautious, as the lake can get pretty choppy on windy afternoons. If hiking is your thing, the Twin Peak trailhead is nearby, offering some excellent trails. For those who enjoy cycling, the main road provides a good workout with its steep climb up to the lake.
Visitors have mentioned that the campground feels remote and wilderness-like, yet it's conveniently within an hour's drive of Anchorage. There's even a local tourist ice cream shop a few miles down the road that offers food, showers, and laundry during the summer months. If you're planning a visit to the Musk Ox Farm in Palmer, this campground is a great nearby option, about 30 miles away.
Overall, Eklutna - Chugach State Park offers a peaceful retreat with stunning natural beauty and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. Whether you're here for the hiking, paddling, or just to soak in the scenery, you won't be disappointed.
$5 - $100 / night
98 sites.
The recreation area combination of lakes, wetlands, and forests create an ideal habitat for many mammals and birds. Perhaps most noticeable to the summer visitor are water dwellers, especially beaver and waterfowl. Beavers are active in lakes and ponds throughout the park and visitors can see evidence of their work. These animals are vital to maintaining crucial water levels in the ecosystem; their dams and lodges must not be disturbed.
Welcome to Centennial Camper Park, a convenient spot near Anchorage, AK, perfect for those who want a taste of the outdoors without straying too far from city comforts. This campground operates from May 15 to September 30, offering a mix of tent and RV accommodations.
Centennial Camper Park has a few standout features that make it a practical choice. For one, it allows pets, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. The campground also provides showers and toilets, which are always a plus when you're out in nature. If you enjoy a good campfire, you'll be happy to know that fires are allowed, and you can even purchase firewood on-site.
Some visitors have noted that the campground is a good base for exploring nearby attractions. It's close enough to Anchorage that you can easily pop into town for supplies or a meal. However, be prepared for some highway noise, as it's not too far from the main roads.
The campground has a bit of a mixed reputation. Some folks appreciate the spacious sites and the convenience of being near the city, while others have mentioned that it can feel a bit sketchy at times. There have been reports of long-term campers and some questionable activity, so it's always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings.
Despite these concerns, Centennial Camper Park offers a decent spot to set up camp if you're looking to explore Anchorage and the surrounding areas. Just remember to pack your food securely, as there have been bear sightings in the area. Enjoy your stay and make the most of what this campground has to offer!
$25 / night
★ ADA Facility - No ★ 36 Acres ★ 30 Campsites ★ No RV size limit ★ Camping Limit - 15 days ★ Toilets ★ Water ★ Picnic sites (15) ★ Picnic Shelter ★ Boat Launch
$25 / night
$10 - $20 / night
$51 / night
Welcome to Bird Creek Campground in Chugach State Park, just a short drive from Anchorage. This spot is a favorite for many, offering a mix of tent, RV, and cabin accommodations. The campground is open from May to September, making it a perfect summer getaway.
Bird Creek Campground is known for its spacious sites, though only about half can fit larger RVs. If you're rolling in with a tent, you'll find plenty of room to set up. Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table, and the vault toilets are kept clean. Just remember, there's no drinking water, so bring your own or be prepared to boil what's available.
One of the standout features here is the Bird to Gird trail, a beautiful biking and walking path that runs right through the campground. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, and if you make it to Girdwood, treat yourself to some blueberry fritters at Alpine Cafe and Bakery.
For those looking to explore further, the area offers some fantastic natural attractions. Byron Glacier is an easy hike, and if you time it right, you can catch the bore tide—a wave big enough to surf. Just be cautious of the tidal mud; it can be like quicksand.
Girdwood, nearby, has all the amenities you might need, from gas stations to groceries, and even a brewery with food trucks. Whether you're here for a quick trip or a longer stay, Bird Creek Campground offers a great mix of convenience and natural beauty. Enjoy your stay and don't forget to keep an eye out for wildlife like bald eagles and maybe even a moose!
Eagle River campground is located along the beautiful Eagle River. The campground has 57 sites with picnic tables, fire pits, water, latrines, flush toilets and dump station. Overflow camping area of 10 sites, and a Campground Host. Downtown Eagle River is a short 5 minutes from the campground and has all the amenities of a small town.
★ ADA Facility - Yes ★ 57 Campsites (see fee page) ★ No RV size limit ★ Camping Limit - 4 nights ★ Daily Parking Fee - (see fee page) ★ Toilets - ♿ ★ Water - ♿ ★ Picnic Sites ★ Picnic Shelter (1) ★ Sanitary Dump Station
Eklutna - Chugach State Park is a fantastic spot nestled just off the Glenn Highway, north of Anchorage. This place is a hidden wonder, especially during the autumn when the colors are simply breathtaking. The campground offers a mix of tent, RV, cabin, and even glamping accommodations, making it a versatile choice for all kinds of campers.
The sites are first-come, first-served and are quite wooded, providing a good amount of privacy. However, the dense canopy might be a bit of a challenge if you're relying on solar power. The bathrooms are basic but clean, with vault toilets, and water is available at spigots throughout the campground loop.
One of the standout features here is Eklutna Lake, which is perfect for flat water paddling and fishing. Just be cautious, as the lake can get pretty choppy on windy afternoons. If hiking is your thing, the Twin Peak trailhead is nearby, offering some excellent trails. For those who enjoy cycling, the main road provides a good workout with its steep climb up to the lake.
Visitors have mentioned that the campground feels remote and wilderness-like, yet it's conveniently within an hour's drive of Anchorage. There's even a local tourist ice cream shop a few miles down the road that offers food, showers, and laundry during the summer months. If you're planning a visit to the Musk Ox Farm in Palmer, this campground is a great nearby option, about 30 miles away.
Overall, Eklutna - Chugach State Park offers a peaceful retreat with stunning natural beauty and plenty of outdoor activities to keep you busy. Whether you're here for the hiking, paddling, or just to soak in the scenery, you won't be disappointed.
$5 - $100 / night
98 sites.
The recreation area combination of lakes, wetlands, and forests create an ideal habitat for many mammals and birds. Perhaps most noticeable to the summer visitor are water dwellers, especially beaver and waterfowl. Beavers are active in lakes and ponds throughout the park and visitors can see evidence of their work. These animals are vital to maintaining crucial water levels in the ecosystem; their dams and lodges must not be disturbed.
Welcome to Centennial Camper Park, a convenient spot near Anchorage, AK, perfect for those who want a taste of the outdoors without straying too far from city comforts. This campground operates from May 15 to September 30, offering a mix of tent and RV accommodations.
Centennial Camper Park has a few standout features that make it a practical choice. For one, it allows pets, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. The campground also provides showers and toilets, which are always a plus when you're out in nature. If you enjoy a good campfire, you'll be happy to know that fires are allowed, and you can even purchase firewood on-site.
Some visitors have noted that the campground is a good base for exploring nearby attractions. It's close enough to Anchorage that you can easily pop into town for supplies or a meal. However, be prepared for some highway noise, as it's not too far from the main roads.
The campground has a bit of a mixed reputation. Some folks appreciate the spacious sites and the convenience of being near the city, while others have mentioned that it can feel a bit sketchy at times. There have been reports of long-term campers and some questionable activity, so it's always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings.
Despite these concerns, Centennial Camper Park offers a decent spot to set up camp if you're looking to explore Anchorage and the surrounding areas. Just remember to pack your food securely, as there have been bear sightings in the area. Enjoy your stay and make the most of what this campground has to offer!
$25 / night
★ ADA Facility - No ★ 36 Acres ★ 30 Campsites ★ No RV size limit ★ Camping Limit - 15 days ★ Toilets ★ Water ★ Picnic sites (15) ★ Picnic Shelter ★ Boat Launch
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Big Lake, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, Big Lake, AK offers a wide range of camping options, with 81 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Lake, AK and 5 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Big Lake, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Big Lake, AK is Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 32 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Lake, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 5 free dispersed camping spots near Big Lake, AK.
What parks are near Big Lake, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Big Lake, AK that allow camping, notably Chugach National Forest and Kenai Fjords National Park.
