Trail River Campground sits at the edge of the Chugach National Forest in Alaska, offering 91 campsites with both RV and tent options. The campground connects to scenic Trail River Lake, which provides boating access and fishing opportunities at an elevation of about 1,500 feet. Visitors should prepare for cool summer nights even during July and August when temperatures can drop into the 40s.
What to do
Kayaking on Trail River Lake: Access the water directly from Trail River Campground where campers can enjoy early morning paddling sessions. "Bring your kayak - an early morning paddle is what everyone needs," notes Andrew R., who found the campground offered "clean grounds, easy access, amazing views, and good privacy."
Explore Fort McGilvray: Hike the historic World War II fort from North Beach at Caines Head State Rec Area, accessible only by boat or low-tide hiking. "Fort McGilvray is an old abandoned WW2 fort that is worth the hike uphill to explore. Bring a flashlight. Really gorgeous views of the bay from the top," recommends Stacey C., who appreciated the picnic tables at the lookout point.
Large group activities: Trail River Campground has designated areas for multi-family gatherings. "The campground provides ample space for large group activities around the pavilion or your own little nook, tucked along the banks of the lakes," according to Sierra S., who recalls childhood events including "kayak races, funny sack races, scavenger hunts and volley ball games."
What campers like
Beach access at Miller's Landing: Enjoy the coastal setting at Miller's Landing where campsites combine forest and ocean views. "My two young children could play all day on the beach area eating an ice cream cone from the little shop while watching the seals/sea otters," shares Samantha M., who appreciated the campground's amenities including "$2/10 minutes" showers and weekend potlucks.
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the layout at Trail River Campground with natural separation. "There are beautiful little paths between the camp sites that makes this place feel like a fairytale," explains Kyle F., who especially valued the lake and inter-camp trails but warns about "insane numbers of mosquitos."
Water and mountain views: The coastal camping at North Beach offers exceptional scenery. "We camped here for a week and it was the most gorgeous place I have ever been. Waking up every morning with mountains and ocean in view was so surreal," writes Brandy T., who spotted "a whale from our camp, tons of seals, porpoises, and beautiful birds."
What you should know
Tide-dependent access: Caines Head State Recreation Area requires careful planning. "The campground is either accessible via boat or hiking in at LOW TIDE ONLY... ignore the low tide warning and [you'll be] falling on the razor sharp rocks," cautions Stacey C., who hiked the 5.1 miles from Lowell Point.
Road conditions: Be prepared for rough roads to some campgrounds. "The road out to this campground is bumpy so take it slow. There are many potholes in the dirt road to this campsite," advises Tanya B. about Trail River Campground, noting you should "watch for the Trail River Road sign."
Accommodations range: From basic to comfortable, glamping near Chugach National Forest offers various comfort levels. "The RV sites are sterile-feeling (standard parking lot style). Okay if you plan to be out & about all day but not ideal for hanging out around the RV," explains Daniel M. about Seward Military Resort, where "yurts would be my go-to" for a better experience.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Seward City Campgrounds offers convenient facilities for families. "The tent camping is located right next to a great playground, so if you have younger kids this might be a good choice for you," suggests Vicki S., who appreciated the location despite the lack of privacy between sites.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Miller's Landing provides excellent wildlife spotting for children. "You do get to pass a pretty cool waterfall on the way," notes Samantha M., whose "two young children could play all day on the beach area eating an ice cream cone from the little shop while watching the seals/sea otters."
Tent platform options: North Beach offers wooden platforms that make family camping more comfortable. "There are a few brand new wooden platforms that we set one of our tents up on, but there are lots of sites both in the woods a little way for wind protection but also along the beach," reports Stacey C., who appreciated the cooking shelter during rainy weather.
Tips from RVers
Utility hookups: Seward Military Resort offers various power options but with limitations. "20, 30, 50 Amp hookups and H2O. As others have said, quite tight against your neighbors and generally full during summer months," reports Eric W., who appreciates the "nice and clean" bathhouse considering "there's no sewer at the sites."
Site spacing: RV sites at various glamping facilities near Chugach National Forest can be crowded. "Basically a parking lot that they squeeze everyone into," warns Wes F. about Seward Military Resort's layout, reflecting the common trade-off between hookups and space at developed campgrounds in the area.
Dump station availability: Plan for waste management needs. "Bath house is nice and clean which is great considering there's no sewer at the sites. Dump site on site so one can make do," notes Eric W., who found Seward Military Resort "not a bad place because the price is right!"
