Camping near Chugach National Forest

Chugach National Forest, AK is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Chugach National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Chugach National Forest. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Best Camping Sites Near Chugach National Forest (135)

    1. Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    13 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 288-7756

    $23 - $33 / night

    "Tucked back in the chugach national forest is a quiet campground that is hard to get into without prior planning. No Rv hookups but does have a dump station and potable wAter."

    "If you asked me where my favorite spot in Alaska is, I might just choose the Russian River."

    2. Quartz Creek Campground

    10 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 288-3178

    $23 - $33 / night

    "This USFS Campground is right off the highway at Kenai Lake near Coopers Landing."

    "Quartz Creek Campground is a lovely little spot, situated between Quartz Creek and Kenai Lake. There are 45 spaces at this campground, so it's one of the larger ones."

    3. Trail River

    11 Reviews
    Moose Pass, AK
    13 miles
    Website

    $23 - $200 / night

    "The lake is one of the most beautiful views in alaska in my opinion. facilities are clean and spacious. Picnic tables and fire pits at each spot."

    "The campground provides ample space for large group activities around the pavilion or your own little nook, tucked along the banks of the lakes.

    this campground was so fun to have our gatherings at!"

    4. Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge & RV Park

    5 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 595-1425

    "The main lodge is just a short walk away too. Grocery store, shower, laundry ADA accessible, Ice and Propane make this a wonderful stop."

    "The lodge also has a beautiful trail with decks looking into the Kenai the shuttle can take you to and from as needed.

    The market staff were really amazing and we enjoyed our stay here very much."

    5. Cooper Creek North Campground

    5 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    5 miles
    Website

    $33 / night

    "It was a very convenient campsite off the highway on the way to Homer, in the national forest. only $23 a night to camp or $11.50 if your a senior or have an access pass."

    "We stayed in the first site and while it was sort of close to the road the noise wasn’t bad because you have the river so close. Perhaps not the best site for small children."

    6. Cooper Creek South

    4 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    5 miles
    Website

    $23 - $33 / night

    "Cooper Creek is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers."

    "Large spaces right next to the Kenai River. Easily get to places that do rafting trips and fishing right from your camp site! Beautiful aqua water with mountain views!"

    7. Tenderfoot Creek

    8 Reviews
    Moose Pass, AK
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 288-3178

    $23 / night

    "We spent 4 nights in Tenderfoot Campground just on the other side of Summit Lake. It is hidden but located at the base of a tall mountain that would be in avalanche danger if snow were in season."

    "Its close proximity to Summit Lake and lake access earned it 4 stars.  Really great place to take a kayak.  If it was not for the water aspect it would have only gotten a 3 star review. "

    8. Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC

    2 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 599-0126

    $100 / night

    9. Juneau Lake Cabin

    3 Reviews
    Cooper Landing, AK
    8 miles
    Website

    $75 / night

    "Honestly, you can't go wrong - especially if you're utilizing the Forest Service cabins sprinkled all over Alaska. This particular cabin was in amazing condition, and very clean."

    "The US Forest Service owns little cabins all over AK and each varies in amenities, age, distance, etc."

    10. Exit Glacier Campground — Kenai Fjords National Park

    16 Reviews
    Seward, AK
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 422-0500

    "Exit glacier is an amazing destination for all ages and capabilities. Although dogs are not welcome on the hike, it is short enough that you won’t be missed long."

    "Stayed here on my big Alaska trip. Really not much to it, but it was a super nice place to stay. I think there was only around 15 sites or so, and they are first come first served."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 135 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Chugach National Forest

442 Reviews of 135 Chugach National Forest Campgrounds


  • Reid S.
    Aug. 24, 2025

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Best car camping experience

    We stayed here over the fourth of July weekend in 2024! The mount marathon race brought a ton of people into town, so the site was full of vehicles. The mountains are incredible, and it's a perfect nook between Seward and Kenai Fjords NP.

  • Andrea W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Klondike RV Park & Cottages

    Kovely campground very well taken care of

    Every ground is provided with water, electricity and dumping station. The grounds are spacious, some with trees providing privacy. Everything is well taken care if. Host is very welcoming. Were invited to a delicious salmon chowder gathering on the spot.

  • MG S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 11, 2025

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Very Large Dispersed Camp

    4 stars because of how people treat the camp (discussed below). Overall good dispersed camping. When you pull into the camp, its mostly gravel and rock. Just find a place to plop down and camp. It was a huge area, maybe 5+ acres. Some shrubs around the lot which was nice for privacy. They did have a few porta-potties throughout the lot. Only downside is that since it is not an established campsite, there aren’t any rules. People were driving and riding ATVs at late hours. Cars/trucks would zoom through the lot- almost thought they were going to hit us at some point.

  • Melissa B.
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Mackey Lake RV and Cabins

    Near Talon Air - Quiet residental area - only 3 spots so very quiet

    NO HOOKUPS but great location across the street from TALON AIR for Bear and Fishing trips. Close to town. Fred Meyer 3 miles away, river 4 miles away. Kenai 15 miles away. Longmere public lake 5 miles away. Great place to camp for a couple nights.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 2, 2025

    Bing’s Landing

    Good salmon fishing location

    Nice campsites. lots of room. Adjacent to rhe Kenai river, with launch ramp and fishing boardwalks/stairs to river.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Quite and Beautiful

    Google maps will take you straight to the entrance. It's a bit hard to see, but you can't miss the massive boulder right next to the road.

    Nice flat area with a lot of areas tucked away if you want privacy.

    There were quite a few people there but everyone kept their distance and were respectful with regard to noise.

  • K
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Granite Creek

    Granite Creek Spot 007

    Super cute campground, had space to park a car and set up a tent. The fire pit was awesome to have but remember to bring your own firewood! Each spot is close to the creek so it was great to go see it with such a short walk.

  • don B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    Love this campground

    07-25-2025 This campground is open. Came in and got on a waiting list for ff and got a site. On the list again but are sure we’ll get another since there was 3 sites not used in our section last night. If not you can park in overflow for $10


Guide to Chugach National Forest

Camping near Chugach National Forest, Alaska, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. From fishing to hiking, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes. One reviewer mentioned, “The Russian River Campgrounds are perfect for fishing, with great views and a well-maintained area.”
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Exit Glacier Campground said, “The weather was often much milder at the campground than in town, making it a great spot for hiking.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bears and eagles. A camper at Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED noted, “We saw plenty of bald eagles and a black bear by the river.”

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking scenery. One happy camper at Quartz Creek Campground said, “Surrounded by mountains, Kenai Lake has a beautiful green/blue hue.”
  • Convenience: Many campgrounds are close to amenities. A reviewer at Bird Creek Campground - Chugach State Park mentioned, “This campground is popular on weekends because of the proximity to Anchorage.”
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. A visitor at Trail River shared, “The sites are fairly private and quiet, making it a great family spot.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Services: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. A camper at Seward City Campgrounds pointed out, “The shower house was under maintenance, which was unfortunate due to the price.”
  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in warmer months. A visitor at Porcupine Campground warned, “The mosquitoes are big and hungry even late into the season.”
  • First-Come, First-Served: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A reviewer at Granite Creek said, “You need to reserve a spot if showing up on the weekend.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities for kids. A camper at Miller's Landing mentioned, “The bonfire pit and grill gave a fun and cozy vibe for our family gathering.”
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities for all ages. A visitor at Williwaw Campground noted, “There are multiple nature trails nearby, perfect for family hikes.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for the kids. A reviewer at Bird Creek Campground - Chugach State Park suggested, “Bring your solar panels, as these sites don't have electrical hookups!”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Miller's Landing said, “For the RV spots, you would want a spot along the beach or next to the bath house.”
  • Be Ready for Wind: Some campgrounds can be windy. A visitor at Williwaw Campground advised, “Bring extra stakes if you are tent camping.”
  • Use Dump Stations: Take advantage of dump stations available at many campgrounds. A reviewer at Exit Glacier Campground mentioned, “There’s a dump station/water down the road.”

Camping near Chugach National Forest, Alaska, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a perfect getaway for families and adventurers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Chugach National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Chugach National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 135 campgrounds and RV parks near Chugach National Forest and 8 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Chugach National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Chugach National Forest is Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Chugach National Forest?

What parks are near Chugach National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Chugach National Forest that allow camping, notably Kenai Fjords National Park and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge.