Camping in the Big Lake area of Alaska offers access to numerous established campgrounds within 30 miles of the water. During peak season, temperatures typically range from 50-75°F, with extended daylight hours from May through August. Many campsites near Big Lake, Alaska open around mid-May when snow has melted and ground has thawed sufficiently for camping equipment.
What to do
Hiking trails: South Rolly Lake Campground provides access to several hiking trails, including the Red Shirt Lake trail. "Hiking trails are bountiful and beautiful. There is a canoe trail between some lakes around the area and South Rolly Lake itself is fun to take your canoe or kayak out on," notes one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: At Eagle River Campground, visitors frequently spot local wildlife. "Look up every so often because there are also bald eagles around. If you want to venture out for a different hike with amazing views, check out Baldy. You can see Anchorage to the Valley," writes one camper.
Canoeing: South Rolly Lake Campground offers canoe trails spanning 6 miles throughout Nancy Lake. "6 miles of canoe trails on Nancy Lake to keep you nice and busy all weekend long. Tons of hiking, camp host, firewood for sale $8 or 2 for $15," reports one visitor.
What campers like
Lake access: Rocky Lake State Recreation Site features direct water access from some sites. "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. There are options to hang up your hammock, start a fire using your pit, walk down your private path to the lake," explains a camper.
Spacious sites: South Rolly Lake Campground receives praise for its generous campsites. "The sites are large and campground staff clean them daily after campers leave. The outhouses are clean and also maintained daily. There are canoe and kayak rentals and the dock is great for fishing or swimming," notes one visitor.
Family activities: Lake Lucile Campground offers family-friendly amenities. "There's a fenced dog park for dog lovers and playground for kiddos," shares one reviewer. Another adds, "Tons of trails, lake access, dog park, playground, electric hookups, forested descent separation between sites."
What you should know
Gate schedules: Rocky Lake has restricted access hours. "There is a curfew of sorts where they lock the entrance and exit gates at 8pm/10pm and open again at 8am," reports one camper.
Noise levels: Big Lake North State Rec Area can be busy during summer weekends. "Close tight spots and literally a parking lot for RVs with no room for pop outs or tables. Tables and fire pits are at the end of your spot so hope you like your neighbors," notes one visitor.
Water access: Kayakers and canoeists appreciate Nancy Lake State Recreation Site Campground for its peaceful waters. "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. It also lets you float silently and gives you better opportunities to get some great views of the local wildlife."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly spots: Nancy Lake offers a good introduction to camping. "This is a great spot to take your younger kids to teach them the basics. Not too much in and out traffic and plenty for them to just explore and learn close to camp."
Beach areas: Forget Me Not RV Park offers sandy beach access for children. "Nice place to take the kiddos. Right off the parks Hwy before the Big Lake turn off. We chose #8 a beachfront site. There is an older swing set for smaller kids to play on and there are kayaks, canoes, & paddle boats for rent."
Wildlife education: Eagle River Campground provides wildlife viewing opportunities. "This is one of my favorite campgrounds to visit. Living in Eagle River, this campground allows me to get out of town without going far. Be careful if you aren't used to camping, there are a ton of bears."
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Riverside Camper Park offers full-service sites. "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."
Parking configurations: Big Lake North State Rec Area has specific limitations. "Set up as more of a large parking lot. The good features of this 'campground' include being right on Big Lake for close access to the water. Lots of water activities on the lake itself."
Price considerations: Lake Lucile Campground offers budget-friendly rates. "Best part is the price. $10 for dry camping and $20 for electric! Also, there's a fenced dog park for dog lovers and playground for kiddos."
