Bird Creek and Eagle River campgrounds in Chugach State Park near Anchorage offer year-round outdoor recreation opportunities. The elevation in this region ranges from 300 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse camping experiences. Weather conditions can change rapidly, with summer temperatures averaging 55-75°F and evening temperatures potentially dropping below 45°F even in July.
What to do
Hiking on nature trails: Eagle River Campground provides access to multiple hiking options. "Located around 5 minutes to Eagle River. Beautiful location on River. ADA accessibility. Dump station on site. Restrooms available. There is a fee and a limit on how long you can stay," notes Lisa S. about the convenient access to outdoor activities.
Whale watching: At Bird Creek Campground, you can observe marine wildlife. "We also went looking for Beluga whales in Turnagian Arm which is just across the way from the campground. If you didn't bring binoculars, don't worry. The state has many of them posted up along the side of the road," shares Shannon C.
Biking: The paved trails at Eklutna Lake Campground offer excellent cycling opportunities. "This would be a great location to have a bicycle. We will definitely visit, hike and camp!" recommends Samantha M., highlighting the multiple recreation options available within the campground.
What campers like
Scenic lake access: Eklutna Lake provides water recreation and mountain views. "Eklutna lake is just beautiful. Its several miles up the mountain but the view there is just gorgeous. The camp sites r nicely placed apart to not be right on top of ur neighbor," explains Barbara W.
Common gathering areas: Girdwood Campground offers social camping experiences. "Small private walk up sites. Parking is close. There is a large common area for a camp fire and covered picnic tables. I enjoyed the common areas as that facilitates meeting new people," reports Kamicia M.
Pet-friendly trails: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Anchorage feature accessible hiking paths. "Large campground north of Anchorage, Lake Eklutna is the Anchorage water supply. Glacier-fed, the water is COLD, but my dogs jumped right in anyway," writes Vicki S. about the pet-friendly hiking trails that complement camping.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds offer minimal amenities. "No water, so bring some. Cellphone signal (t mobile) and Internet pretty good. Nice bike trail close. They do also have cabins to rent," Lisa F. explains about Bird Creek Campground.
Seasonal timing: Most Anchorage area campgrounds operate from May through September. "Open to military, veterans and DOD only, must have access to JBER to use. Sites are far enough apart but dont have privacy of trees with the undergrowth all cleaned out," Shadara W. notes about Black Spruce Campground, one of the few year-round options.
Wildlife considerations: Bears and moose frequently visit campgrounds. "This is a great place to see bears! Moose.... Foxes. The waters are clear and the landscape is so lush. There are a ton of flies though in the summer. Especially next to all this water. Mosquitos are aggressive at night," warns Carly S., emphasizing the importance of wildlife safety protocols.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds include dedicated play areas. "Open year round with 50/30/20amp sites (seasonal water hook up as well) and tent sites, this small campground is a great place while waiting for a house or on your way out. There's a playground for the kids, a bike path that can be taken to the shopette or one of the neighborhood playgrounds," Megan W. notes about Black Spruce.
Train noise considerations: Be aware of railway proximity. "Train does run by at 6 am so it makes a great alarm clock. Quiet time ends at 6 am. Half the camp sites are next to the bike path so watch your dogs," Tanya B. warns about camping with children at Bird Creek.
Walking distance options: Centennial Camper Park provides accessible camping for families. "The campsite was large and the fire pit was great," mentions Aimee H., highlighting the space available for family activities.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Eagle River Campground offers full sanitation facilities. "Great campground with paved roads. Lots are spread out well and it is fairly comfortable and quite. Multiple trails travel along the campground and the river," says Andrew R.
Site spacing: Most campgrounds provide adequate space between sites. "Campsites are pretty spaced. You get a picnic table and a fire ring for 20 bucks a night. Yes, there is road noise but that does calm down at night," explains Lisa F. about the practical setup at Bird Creek.
Hookup options: Limited electrical service is available at certain locations. "Price and convenient location are good. About 1/4 of park is occupied by long-term residents - clean and well maintained. Park is located within a couple miles of downtown, across street from Costco," notes sk S. about Golden Nugget RV Park, mentioning the amenities available for extended stays.
