The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near Big Lake, AK

345 Reviews

The Big Lake area of Alaska features several established campgrounds within short distances of the water, including Big Lake South State Recreation Site and Big Lake North State Rec Area. These campgrounds accommodate tent camping, RVs, and some offer cabin options. Most sites are managed by Alaska State Parks and provide basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The surrounding areas include Nancy Lake State Recreation Site, Rocky Lake State Recreation Site, and South Rolly Lake Campground, expanding the camping options within a 30-mile radius of Big Lake.

Camping season typically runs from May through September, though some sites like Big Lake South remain open year-round. Many campgrounds operate on reservation systems through Great Holidays Campgrounds, with reservations closing 48 hours before arrival, after which remaining spots become first-come, first-served. "This campground is available by reservation or walk/drive in. There are only about 10 campsites but a few of them have a terrific set up," noted one visitor about Rocky Lake State Recreation Site. Visitors should verify campground status before planning trips, as some facilities periodically close for maintenance.

Many campgrounds in the Big Lake area feature waterfront access, though the style and quality of campsites vary significantly. Several locations offer boat-in camping access, making them popular with water recreation enthusiasts. The camping experience at Big Lake South and North has been described as more of a "parking lot style" arrangement, with RV spots positioned close together. Reviews indicate mixed experiences regarding noise levels, with some campers reporting generator noise throughout the night and music playing until early morning hours. Those seeking more privacy may prefer smaller campgrounds like Rocky Lake with only 10 sites, though these fill quickly during summer weekends. Water activities represent the main attraction in the area, with options for fishing, kayaking, jet skiing, and swimming.

Map showing campgrounds near Big Lake, AlaskaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Big Lake, Alaska (96)

    1. Eagle River Campground — Chugach State Park

    33 Reviews
    Eagle River, AK
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 694-7982

    "Multiple trails travel along the campground and the river. Beautiful Alaskan experience right next to Alaska's largest city."

    "Bring your fishing pole as you're close to the river. Enjoy what Alaska has to offer!"

    2. South Rolly Lake Campground

    12 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8400

    "We stayed here using a pull through site, no power with a walking path directly to the lake. It ended up raining the whole weekend but was still a great trip."

    "We were aiming for Nancy Lake Park and didn’t pull up our maps and found ourselves at South Rolly. This was a wonderful surprise! The campground has so many cool sites tucked away."

    3. Nancy Lake State Recreation Site Campground

    7 Reviews
    Willow, AK
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8400

    "Being born and raised in Alaska, I am disappointed in myself for only going to Nancy Lake for the first time in 2018. This is such a cool lake and very shapely."

    "The close proximity to the lake is nice. This is not a motorized sport lake or float planes landing that I have ever seen means you can paddle out without worrying about other peoples wakes."

    4. Rocky Lake State Recreation Site

    3 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 240-9797

    "This campground is available by reservation or walk/drive in. There are only about 10 campsites but a few of them have a terrific set up. This is quiet, small and right on the lake."

    "Some sites have direct lake access, others more back into the trees. Camp sites are TIGHT- watched a few RVs and 5th wheels struggle into spots on the one way road. Bathrooms were well maintained."

    5. Eklutna Lake Campground — Chugach State Park

    40 Reviews
    Chugiak, AK
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 345-5014

    $5 - $100 / night

    "Trails to hike or play on the lake! This campground is situated with access to Eklunta Lake and boy is that perfect. Tons of campsites to choose from both double, single and handicapped."

    "If you get there at the right time, there are a few sites with a view of the lake thru the trees. Requires a very short hike to get lakeside but the view is worth it."

    6. Big Lake South State Recreation Site

    2 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 317-9094

    7. Forget Me Not RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 892-3733

    "Right off the parks Hwy before the Big Lake turn off. We chose #8 a beachfront site. #7 is wider for anyone trying to decide which one."

    "Quiet nice sites next to a large pond. They made a nice sandy beach. Good location right off the highway but somehow quiet."

    8. Riverside Camper Park

    2 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 892-9020

    "Right on the Susitna River and right next to Miller’s which has the best ice cream in Alaska. If you are looking to hook up to Electric and want an easy stop on the highway this is a great choice."

    9. Big Lake North State Rec Area

    2 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 745-3975

    "Big Lake is so fun during all seasons (aside from breakup). We meet friends here frequently to ride jet skis, kayak, jet boat, swim, snowmachine, ski and most importantly enjoy each others company."

    10. Lake Lucile Campground

    7 Reviews
    Wasilla, AK
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 373-9010

    $20 - $40 / night

    "Minutes away from the amenities of a small city. Not much privacy between spots but there are some trees. There’s a lake with some small walking trails which are nice in the morning."

    "Great all around, Great Lake. Good trees."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 96 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Big Lake Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Camping Photos near Big Lake, AK

43 Photos of 96 Big Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Big Lake, AK

345 Reviews of 96 Big Lake Campgrounds

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Kings River

    Right by the river

    As others have stated, multiple dispersed sites right by the Kingsriver. Directly off the road. The bridge for the road above is located at the end of the area. I actually camped underneath the bridge for a few nights to get out of the constant rain that Alaska seemed to be going through while I was there.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    The Springer RV Park & Campground

    Decent Campground

    We followed our GPS without issue to the campground near the Palmer golf course and municipal airport. The turn into the CG was a little tight but manageable with our 40’ toy hauler and F450. Check-in was quick and friendly, and we proceeded to pull-through site 24 with FHUs (50/30 AMP). When we made our reservations online, they asked for the exact length of both our RV and tow vehicle. We were definitely assigned one of their longer pull-throughs, as we could center our rig on the pad for the utilities—well-placed near the middle—while still dropping our patio and parking our truck on either side. The sites were very close together, with only a slender strip of grass and a picnic table between them. Water pressure was steady around 45 PSI. We got 2 bars on Verizon and 1 workable bar on T-Mobile. Because of the close spacing and perimeter trees, we placed Starlink on the roof and had a good connection, though many RVers set theirs on the ground. The campground WiFi worked well for browsing, with speeds of 8.69 Mbps. The laundry room was a standout: two washers and two dryers,$5 per load (pay at the office), and they provided soap and dryer sheets—easily the best laundry deal we’ve seen to date. The large overflow/tent camping area doubled as a dog run, with additional space to walk pups around the property. In our opinion, the back-in sites offered better spacing and mountain views. We also enjoyed watching small planes and helicopters come and go from the nearby airport. Overall, this campground met our needs for our five day stay.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2025

    Anchorage N KOA Journey

    Mixed Review

    We followed the website instructions and took Fireweed Road off AK-3. Arriving early cost us a $20 fee, and check-in was unpleasant as the front desk person was snippy, didn’t recognize our confirmation for a deluxe site, and gave no amenities or rules briefing. We had asked if there was somewhere we could go park until check-in time, but didn't get a response. She just kept checking us in and charged us the $20 fee. We were assigned pull-through site 8 with FHUs and 50 AMP. Since we had reserved a deluxe site back in January, we expected enough length for our 40’ toy hauler and patio, but the pad was too short and forced us to park our F-450 diagonally and still no room to put the patio down. Utilities were placed in the middle of the pad with good water pressure, but the KOA Wi-Fi never connected despite repeated attempts. Starlink had a clear shot to the sky. The next day we spoke with the manager about our experience. She offered firewood as an apology, but then discovered they were out, so we asked for our $20 early-arrival fee back instead. She agreed, but the refund never came. The campground does have two small fenced dog areas. On departure day we had a slide issue that prevented us from leaving, and the manager was very accommodating, providing the number of a local RV tech who came out that day and moving us to back-in site K4 so we could stay another night for repairs. Mobile RV and Toyostove, 907-745-0468, gave us fast, reliable service. Site K4 was definitely a much better site with plenty of space for our size rig. In the end, our stay had both frustrations and positives, with poor check-in and site issues offset by a helpful manager when we ran into problems.

  • Andrea W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Golden Nugget RV Park

    A place for RVs in Anchorage but don't expect much

    We had the impression that many people stay long-term - hence a lot is laying around on the sites. Everything feels a little grubby, however the site provides W/E as well as a dumping station. Fine for one night when you have to hand your RV back the next day. If you are looking for a nice stay close to Anchorage, go to Palmer.

  • Andrea W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Matanuska River Park Campground

    Nice place well looked after

    Lots of green, a big part if the camping grounds are in a forest, RV with E Nicely arranged with well looked after grass, so you don't soil your RV.

  • Vicky S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 19, 2025

    Mountain View RV Park

    Convenient and pleasant

    I agree with the other reviewers. We stayed there on our way north to Denali. Like all RV Parks we’ve stayed in in AK, the sites don’t have any privacy, but the scenery is lovely. Liked it so will stay again on our way south.

  • Barbara W.
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Eklutna Lake Campground — Chugach State Park

    Eklutna Lake Ice Cream Camping

    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. Firewood is available & it costs involved think 20$ a night but worth it & just down the way u can take showers, do laundry & get some killer home made Alaskan flavored ice cream. It has rentals & many amenities. Truly a very nice place to go & if ur really in for an interesting adventure. Down at the bottom of the mountain there is a Russian Orthodox Cemetary that's just amazing. Its got plaques telling of earlier years & the people who came. Creepy, Cool & Powerful all in a beautifully peaceful off the beaten path & only a mile, mile & 1/2 down the road historic adventure

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Lake Lucile Campground

    great spot away from town - but not too far away

    this is a great spot to unwind, enjoy a pretty lake, and give your pup the opportunity to run around in the dog park. it is a bit noisy, so definitely not the place if you’re looking for peace and quiet. road coming in has a short dirt patch that is in good condition. picnic table, fire pit, and free firewood available for campers. tent site - $20.

Guide to Big Lake

Camping near Big Lake, Alaska, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing: The lakes around Big Lake are great for fishing. One camper mentioned, "The lake allows electric motors only and it's pretty shallow from shore, so I think the best fishing will be by kayak or dinghy" at Eklutna - Chugach State Park.
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the area. A reviewer noted, "Trails were beautiful, lake view beautiful, lots of animals to see" at Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park.
  • Canoeing: If you enjoy paddling, check out South Rolly Lake Campground. One visitor said, "There are 6 miles of canoe trails on Nancy Lake to keep you nice and busy all weekend long."

What campers like

  • Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One reviewer at Matanuska River Park Campground said, "Nice grassy spots but very very small and if you get here after everyone else it’s almost impossible to navigate getting into your spot."
  • Wildlife: Many enjoy spotting local wildlife. A camper at Nancy Lake State Recreation Site shared, "This is not a motorized sport lake or float planes landing... you can paddle out without worrying about other people's wakes."
  • Family-friendly atmosphere: Campgrounds like Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground are noted for being welcoming to families. One visitor said, "The location is awesome, the owners are so friendly and helpful."

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds have basic facilities. A camper at Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park mentioned, "The bathroom was clean. Some sites you can hear the river and some road noise."
  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at South Rolly Lake Campground noted, "Lots of mozzies."
  • First-come, first-served sites: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Finger Lake State Rec Area advised, "I would try to show up closer to noon after people are leaving those sites."

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites. A reviewer at Black Spruce Campground said, "Spaces are decently sized with a picnic table and charcoal grill set up."
  • Bring outdoor games: Keep kids entertained with outdoor activities. One camper at Matanuska River Park Campground mentioned, "Small campground attached to park with playground, pavilion and volleyball court."
  • Plan for nature exploration: Campgrounds like Nancy Lake State Recreation Site offer plenty of space for kids to explore. A visitor said, "This was a great spot for a 5&4 YO. Not too much in and out traffic and plenty for them to just explore."

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground noted, "The hookups are on the opposite side if you back in."
  • Be ready for tight spots: Some campgrounds have close quarters. A reviewer at Matanuska River Park Campground said, "If you are wanting any kind of privacy this is not the spot for you."
  • Bring extra cords: If your RV needs power, bring extension cords. A visitor at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground mentioned, "It is not an issue if you bring an extra extension cord."

Camping near Big Lake, Alaska, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a variety of campgrounds and activities, there's something for everyone.

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 96 campgrounds and RV parks near Big Lake, AK and 7 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 33 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Big Lake, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 7 free dispersed camping spots near Big Lake, AK.

Keep Exploring