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Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Big Lake, AK

342 Reviews

Big Lake South State Recreation Site maintains year-round operation with pet-friendly campsites suitable for both tent and RV camping. Pets must be leashed at all times within this established campground, which offers drinking water, toilets, and trash collection services. South Rolly Lake Campground near Willow provides additional pet accommodations including cabin options, with picnic tables and fire rings at each site. The campground does not require reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Nancy Lake State Recreation Site in Willow welcomes pets at its campsites and cabins from May to September, providing toilets but limited drinking water. Campers should note that the campground parking areas can feel tight, with some sites positioned close together.

The surrounding area offers numerous dog-friendly hiking opportunities, including the Red Shirt Lake Trail accessible from South Rolly Lake Campground. Dogs can enjoy swimming at designated lake access points, though owners should keep pets leashed when walking campground paths due to occasional wildlife. Both South Rolly and Nancy Lake feature canoe and kayak rentals for water recreation, with pets permitted in boats at owner discretion. South Rolly Lake Campground staff clean sites daily after campers depart and maintain the outhouses regularly. Sites at Rocky Lake State Recreation Site provide private paths to the lakeshore, ideal for pet owners seeking water access, though the entrance gates lock at 8pm/10pm and reopen at 8am, restricting late-night pet walks.

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Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Big Lake, Alaska (78)

    1. Eagle River Campground — Chugach State Park

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

    "River is very fast, so advise watching pets and children carefully. Close to Anchorage, but far enough out of town to get away from the hustle. Still a slightly busy campground in summer months."

    "Great spot close to our home of Anchorage for when we don't want to go too far. Large pavillion great for get-togethers right along the river and includes it's own bathroom."

    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."

    "My dog got a tick here (yes a tick) 15 years ago when I stayed here so I have been coming for many years. The close proximity to the lake is nice."

    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

    "Rode our bikes down the lake side trial, people were nice and respectful. Also the dogs and kids love playing on the beach."

    "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."

    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. 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."

    "Tons of trails, lake access, dog park, playground, electric hookups, forested descent separation between sites, group site, restrooms, swimming, kayaking, canoe, and fish, 2 pavilions, 2 playgrounds too"

    10. Little Susitna Campground

    2 Reviews
    Big Lake, AK
    8 miles
    Website
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Showing results 1-10 of 78 campgrounds

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Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Big Lake, AK

34 Photos of 78 Big Lake Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Big Lake, AK

342 Reviews of 78 Big Lake Campgrounds

  • Tanya B.
    Sep. 6, 2020

    Gold Creek Gold Mine

    Camp anywhere you can find

    This is the best camping in Alaska. Just find a spot big enough for your rig it tent and pull off. There are many regularly used sites that have rock fire rings already made. Always make sure you are not in a drive way and that there are no POSTED signs to keep off property. Bug shelters highly recommended because depending on the year it’s mosquitoes, flies, or bees.

  • A
    Aug. 16, 2022

    Lake Lucile Campground

    City campground

    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. Pit toilets, picnic tables, fire pit. 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.

  • Shadara W.
    Oct. 31, 2019

    Lake Lucile Campground

    Beautiful!

    Tons of trails, lake access, dog park, playground, electric hookups, forested descent separation between sites, group site, restrooms, swimming, kayaking, canoe, and fish, 2 pavilions, 2 playgrounds too.

  • Tanya B.
    Sep. 6, 2020

    Lake Lucile Campground

    Campground could is a little love

    This is one of the better mat su campgrounds. It does have some great day use parking and 39 campsites. On clear days the lake is beautiful. The trails are nice and well-maintained we also enjoyed the dog park. There are a number of pavilions that can be used but people with reservations to have priority.

  • 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.

  • Tanya B.
    Aug. 14, 2020

    Bings Landing State Recreation Site

    This is Big Lake not Bings

    This is actually Big Lake. Bing’s Landing is in Sterling, AK.

    This (Big Lake) is a great campground and can be reserved at Great Holidays Campgrounds. Worth a visit.

  • Shadara W.
    Aug. 12, 2019

    Big Lake North State Rec Area

    Great lake access but parking lot for RV's.

    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. 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. Several walk-in campsites for tents which were much prettier.

  • Seth M.
    Sep. 28, 2018

    Eagle River Campground — Chugach State Park

    Gorgeous area. Beautiful river.

    Nice, well equipped campground. Sits right on the Eagle River. River is very fast, so advise watching pets and children carefully. Close to Anchorage, but far enough out of town to get away from the hustle. Still a slightly busy campground in summer months.

  • Samantha M.
    Jul. 24, 2018

    Rocky Lake State Recreation Site

    Terrific campground

    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. There are options to hang up your hammock, start a fire using your pit, walk down your private path to the lake and enjoy the weekend. This would be a great spot if you’re not looking to explore but to just relax on the lake. If it’s a rainy day you could drive into wasilla and make a fun day out of it. We ended up driving to the extreme fun center for the kids since it rained all day and had a blast! If you’re looking for more of a group I’d suggest big lakes north or south options.

Guide to Big Lake

Discover the best spots for pets-allowed camping near Big Lake, Alaska, where you and your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors together.

Pet owners like spacious sites and natural beauty

Pet-friendly campgrounds include great amenities

  • Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground provides electric hookups and a market, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay with your pets.
  • The Nancy Lake State Recreation Site has clean facilities and picnic areas, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors with your furry companions.
  • Lake Lucile Campground offers convenient access to walking trails and a lake, perfect for a day of adventure with your pets.

Tips for camping with dogs near Big Lake

  • Always keep your pets on a leash at the Centennial Camper Park to ensure their safety and the comfort of other campers.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks for your pets, especially when visiting Willow Creek Resort, where outdoor activities abound.
  • Consider visiting Rocky Lake State Recreation Site for a quieter experience, as it has fewer sites and a more relaxed atmosphere for you and your pets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Big Lake, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Big Lake, AK is Eagle River Campground — Chugach State Park with a 4.1-star rating from 33 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Big Lake, AK?

TheDyrt.com has all 78 dog-friendly camping locations near Big Lake, AK, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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