Chitina is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Chitina is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Chitina, AK. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.
$25 / night
"This camp ground really makes you appreciate the freedom to explore Alaska and see all the beauty. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve seen in Alaska."
"It’s a shard turn off the road so when coming near Chitna keep your eyes peeled.
Also great for a short hike!
Pros: tent platforms to practice those LNT skills!"
"This was our first place we camped in Alaska and it was very clean. It has a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active. Clean bathrooms"
"Loved the location. Close to Glenallen and not far from Valdez. Lots of spots with great shade. We found a spot in the back right on the creek."
"One of my favorite stops in Alaska 🤘🏻"
"There are lots of fire pits and picnic tables around, as well as outhouses. Great location right by the river and bridge and a short walk to the lake with amazing views of the glacier!"
"This also give great access to McCarthy and Kennicott shuttles. Be very careful on the road here, we got a flat on the way out but some very kind Alaskans helped us out and got us on the way."
"Beautiful views close to McCarthy's walking bridge. Picnic Benches. Very friendly host. Must try the Roadside Potatohead! It was about a 10 minute walk from our campsite."
"Our campsite had a short walk to a waterfall the family and I played in. It was an amazing experience. The showers/bathrooms here weren’t terrible."
ScoutShowed up on the 4th of July and still got a spot. Such a beautiful secluded campground. Lots of privacy and being near the creek was just the cherry on top. Perfect spot for checking out Thompson pass and Valdez for the day. Definitely would return!
ScoutI love how close this campground is to the river. I love how they added more electric access spots. I just wish some spots were bigger than others so we weren’t so close together.
LegendBooked three nights after driving the McCarthy Road
Area is pretty open with fire rings and a few pit toilets.
The ground is not paved or graveled so it’s bumpy coming back.
We parked our pickup camper with a view of the glacier out our door.
Easy walk to McCarthy foot bridge.
Need to pack out trash as there is no local pickup.
$35 a night for small rigs, $45 for large.
TravelerLoved the location. Close to Glenallen and not far from Valdez. Lots of spots with great shade. We found a spot in the back right on the creek. Left to go to Valdez and came back and found the same spot still open. Absolutely loved the campground minus the mosquitos.
ScoutPerfect place to camp
GuideWhile this campsite might be basic in amenities, the views are unbeatable! This also give great access to McCarthy and Kennicott shuttles. Be very careful on the road here, we got a flat on the way out but some very kind Alaskans helped us out and got us on the way.
LegendThis place is so far out of the way and worth it. We only stayed one night but there was enough around and the site was so great, I wish we could have stayed for two. The road to get here isn't hard, just extremely long. When it's wet and the potholes are full of water, you have to treat each of them like they're a foot deep since you have no depth perception. It took us about 3 hours on Nabsena road in our rental jeep compass. We were here in shoulder season and had our pick of spots. We set up right along the water. It was extremely peaceful and relaxing. You could sit here to just enjoy the scenery. Walking into McCarthy is fun too and has a couple of dining options. The city's public outhouses are night, the home made pits on the campground are okay (the dimensions are a little off and they're awkward to sit on). I can't remember if they have wood available but don't count on any amenities. Being shoulder season, we were treated to less than 10 others in the campground (any RV's should be prepared to bondock). Plenty of bear tracks sited hiking in the area and locals said the grizzly's were coming out at night. We even got a glimpse of the Northern Lights but the stars alone are incredible here. This site was well worth travelling for.
LegendYou can not beat your surroundings and the view!! I would give it 5/5 stars for that..
I asked the guy at the counter if the Basecamp is private. He said yes. It's unfortunate that you have to drive down the terrible, McCarty road. It was bad. They just grated it and if we didn't have a raff adventure booked my husband would have turned around since we are hauling a camper. I'm surprised nothing broke but we still need to get back :(
Considering we are in the park, I wish they had more camping options. I gave it 3/5 stars as I'm comparing to other campgrounds...$35 for NO amenities is a lot.....if it was going to the national park to pay for the footbridge maybe my opinion would be different. You get a spot with no electric or water, no bathrooms, no trash. I asked the guy at the counter and he said "no trash is our biggest complaint". So $35 is a bit much for where we are, but since this is a once in a lifetime trip for us, I get it. We enjoyed the remoteness of the town and the idea of this small community. Usually when you end up in areas this remote, you end up with free camping or cheap camping via the national park service....
We biked five miles to Kennicott mine, we got picked up at footbridge for our raft adventure and it wasn't far to eat at "the potato" for lunch.
ScoutQuiet and awsome
Camping near Chitina, Alaska, offers a unique experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and the sounds of nature. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
Camping near Chitina, Alaska, is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be ready for an adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Chitina camping areas?
Campgrounds around Chitina offer varying levels of amenities. Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site provides clean bathrooms, picnic areas, and beautiful lake views with active beaver populations. Base Camp Root Glacier offers fire pits, picnic tables, and outhouses with a self-pay honor system. Some campgrounds include level tent sites with stone fire rings, while others provide shower facilities. Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park caters to RV travelers. More rustic options like the free camping areas in Wrangell-St. Elias have minimal facilities. Nearby lodges sometimes offer additional amenities like ATMs and food service for campers looking to supplement their outdoor experience.
Where are the campgrounds located in Chitina, Alaska?
Chitina area campgrounds are scattered throughout the surrounding region, offering various scenic locations. Copper River Campground sits right on the Copper River, providing riverside camping opportunities. Near McCarthy, you'll find Glacier View Campground which is close to McCarthy's walking bridge with beautiful mountain views. Other campgrounds are located along the road system, including sites within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Some campgrounds are situated near waterfalls, lakes, and rivers, offering both accessibility and natural beauty. While some sites are just off main roads, others require driving on more remote routes to reach these spectacular camping destinations.
When is the best season for camping in Chitina?
The prime camping season in Chitina runs from late May through early September when weather conditions are most favorable. Liberty Falls State Recreation Site is particularly beautiful during summer months when you can enjoy one of Alaska's most stunning waterfalls. King For A Day Campground & Charters offers excellent fishing opportunities in summer, particularly for sockeye salmon. By mid-June, most campgrounds are fully operational with road access improved after spring thaws. Early season camping (May) can mean fewer crowds but potentially limited services, while late August brings cooler temperatures and potential fall colors. Weather can change rapidly in this region, so planning for variable conditions is essential regardless of when you visit.
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