The Matanuska-Susitna Valley near Big Lake sits at approximately 200 feet elevation with a subarctic climate featuring long summer days and temperatures averaging 55-75°F from May through September. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F with significant snowfall, making most campgrounds seasonal. The area's numerous lakes were formed by retreating glaciers, creating interconnected waterways popular with paddlers and anglers.
What to do
Hiking trails year-round: Eagle River Campground offers access to multiple trails within Chugach State Park. "Located around 5 minutes to Eagle River. Beautiful location on River. ADA accessibility. Trails are nearby and fishing opportunities," notes Lisa S. Visitors can explore the nearby nature center, with Amy B. mentioning, "Love taking the kids to this one and soon I will do the trail to crows pass from the nature center."
Paddling and canoe trails: The Nancy Lake area contains an extensive canoe trail system connecting multiple lakes. "6 miles of canoe trails on Nancy Lake to keep you nice and busy all weekend long," explains Shadara W. about South Rolly Lake Campground. The campground provides equipment rentals for those without their own watercraft, as Cassandra S. points out: "There is a great canoe rental shop in the campground that provides everything you need to get on the water."
Wildlife viewing: The Big Lake region hosts abundant wildlife including moose, bears, and bald eagles. "This seems like a well loved campsite and the lake was beautiful! Lots of sites to choose from and a lot of moose!" reports Mari R. about South Rolly Lake. When visiting these dog-friendly campgrounds near Big Lake, remember to watch for wildlife on trails and near water.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Rocky Lake State Recreation Site offers secluded campsites with direct lake access. "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," explains Samantha M.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers consistently mention the cleanliness of facilities at pet-friendly campgrounds in the Big Lake area. "The campground has so many cool sites tucked away. There is also a lovely little central area safe for kids to play in," notes Sierra S. about South Rolly Lake Campground. For families wanting more amenities, Lake Lucile Campground offers "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," according to Shadara W.
Proximity to towns: Several campgrounds provide a balance between natural settings and nearby conveniences. "Minutes away from the amenities of a small city. Not much privacy between spots but there are some trees," reports Abigail about Lake Lucile Campground in Wasilla. For those looking to restock supplies, many dog-friendly campgrounds near Big Lake have towns within 15-30 minutes driving distance.
What you should know
Wildlife precautions: Bears are common around Big Lake campgrounds. "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. Don't keep your food out of a secured box or by your tent," warns Melisa A. Always carry bear spray when hiking and store food securely.
Gate closure times: Some campgrounds restrict after-hours access. At Eklutna Lake Campground, campers note that "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." However, similar to Rocky Lake, some campgrounds have entrance gates that close at specific times, limiting late-night arrivals.
Mosquito preparation: Summer brings mosquitoes to the Big Lake area. "Skeeters weren't terrible between the fire, bug spray and bug room we were just fine and came out with minimal bites," reports Brent L. about Nancy Lake State Recreation Site. Bringing mosquito repellent, head nets, and screened shelters improves comfort during peak season from June through August.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly lakes: Multiple campgrounds feature shallow, warmer swimming areas. "We stayed here using a pull through site, no power with a walking path directly to the lake... kayak/canoe rentals on location, water, and a little sand area for kids to play in," shares Samantha M. about South Rolly Lake. These areas provide safer water access for younger children compared to the larger, deeper lakes.
Playground options: For families needing additional entertainment, several campgrounds include play areas. Lake Lucile Campground features "a fenced dog park for dog lovers and playground for kiddos," according to Abigail. This makes it an excellent option among dog-friendly campgrounds near Big Lake for families with both children and pets.
Educational opportunities: The region offers learning experiences about Alaskan ecosystems. "The hiking trails are absolutely beautiful!! Watch for Moose. Look up every so often because there are also bald eagles around," recommends Melisa A. Some campgrounds post wildlife identification guides and maintain interpretive trails that teach children about local plants and animals.
Tips from RVers
Tight entrance situations: Some campgrounds have challenging access points. At Forget Me Not RV Park, "Nice place to take the kiddos. 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," advises Jessica J. RVers should check campground reviews for specific site recommendations based on vehicle size.
Utility limitations: Most campgrounds near Big Lake have minimal or no hookups. "If you are looking to hook up to Electric and want an easy stop on the highway this is a great choice," notes Tanya B. about Riverside Camper Park. RVers should come prepared with full water tanks and charged batteries for campgrounds without electric hookups.
Parking configurations: Some campgrounds use parking lot-style layouts that limit privacy. "It was okay. The area was clean but you park in a paved parking lot, too close to other campers to use an awning," reports Jessica J. about Big Lake North State Recreation Site. RVers seeking more separation should target forest campgrounds rather than lake-access parking areas.
