The Anchorage area sits at approximately 100 feet above sea level, with surrounding camping areas ranging from sea level to 2,000 feet elevation. Summers typically see temperatures between 55-75°F, with extended daylight hours from May through August providing ample camping time. Most campgrounds in the region operate in a relatively short season due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing access: Black Spruce RV Park in Anchorage serves as a convenient base for anglers. One visitor noted it's "One of the better places IMO to park my rig while out here in this beautiful city."
Lake activities: Guests at Forget Me Not RV Park in Wasilla can rent watercraft for exploring Johnson Pond. "There is a older swing set for smaller kids to play on and there are kayaks, canoes, & paddle boats for rent," shares one camper who stayed at a beachfront site.
Hiking trails: Several trails connect to Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge & RV Park, with shuttle service available. "The lodge also has a beautiful trail with decks looking into the Kenai the shuttle can take you to and from as needed," mentions a reviewer who appreciated the accessibility.
What campers like
Mountain views: At Mountain View RV Park in Palmer, the scenic backdrop ranks high among visitor comments. "With amazing views, Showers, laundry, and picnic tables at each site there's nothing missing from this RV park," wrote one camper who stayed there.
Lakeside camping: Campers at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground appreciate waterfront sites. "Our RV door opened up to a view of the gorgeous lake. Plenty of amenities and the on site restaurant is a gem," explains one visitor who enjoyed both the scenery and dining options.
On-site dining: Food options stand out at several campgrounds near Anchorage. A visitor to Fox Run specifically mentioned "The Thai food was REALLY good. So good that we'd go back just for the food!"
What you should know
Highway noise: Several RV sites near Anchorage, Alaska have traffic noise issues. A visitor at Forget Me Not RV Park noted: "Nice place to take the kiddos. Right off the parks Hwy before the Big Lake turn off... You do hear noise from the Highway."
Urban proximity: Some locations offer tradeoffs between convenience and atmosphere. "Not much going for this RV campground except for that it's downtown and close to the railroad. Railroad line runs directly next to the campground so at least twice a day you will hear trains," reported one camper about Anchorage Ship Creek RV Park.
Space considerations: Campsite sizes vary significantly across the region. A traveler staying at Big Bear Campground and RV Park noted: "Spots had space, grass, fire pits, full hook up and dump hook up... Only downside is mosquitos weren't the best so a lot of people stayed in their campers."
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Families with young children can find kid-friendly amenities at select locations. One visitor to Big Bear Campground wrote, "The park had helpful and friendly staff, clean bathrooms, a nice laundry facility, and even a playground with a communal pavilion for people to gather round together."
Beach access: Johnson Pond at Forget Me Not RV Park offers sandy shoreline for water play. "They made a nice sandy beach. Good location right off the highway but somehow quiet," notes a visitor who appreciated the family-friendly water access.
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds near downtown Anchorage have security concerns. "Homeless Camp is just up and around the corner from the campgrounds does not make me feel safe," mentioned one reviewer about Anchorage Ship Creek RV Park, highlighting the importance of researching location when camping with families.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: At Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground, one RVer mentioned: "The hookups are on the opposite side if you back in. It is not an issue if you bring an extra extension cord."
Long-term stays: For extended camping trips, several RV sites near Anchorage, Alaska offer monthly rates. A visitor to Bobbys RV Park in Chugiak shared: "This rv spot isn't bad easy to get to," making it suitable for both short and longer-term stays.
Pad surfaces: Most RV campgrounds in the region have gravel pads rather than concrete or asphalt. As one camper noted about Mountain View RV Park, "The sites are parking lot gravel style but very clean and well kept," which can impact leveling and setup time.
