Tent camping in Chugach National Forest offers access to Alaska's glaciers, rivers, and alpine environments. Most backcountry sites sit at elevations between 500-2,500 feet, with significant temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Water sources throughout the forest require filtration, with seasonal streams becoming unreliable by late July.
What to do
Glacier viewing day hikes: Exit Glacier Campground provides tent sites near multiple glacier trails. "Great and unique campground with glacier views. Tents only and campground is clean and well maintained. Nice little hike out to the glacier or longer hikes up to the ice field if you want," notes Adam S. from Exit Glacier Campground.
Wildlife photography: Lower Skilak Lake Campground serves as a prime location for wildlife observation. "We saw black bears, mamma and cubs. Very curious cubs got very close, momma didn't seem to mind or get aggressive. Still be prepared for an encounter for your safety. There were lots of smaller critters we saw/heard and signs of moose," reports Jessica J. from Lower Skilak Lake Campground.
Alpine hiking: Coeur D'Alene Campground tent sites connect to several mountain trails. According to Stacey C., "Nice little campground with small amt of campsites, not really suitable for large groups or RVs so it's nice and quiet. It's walk in, but not far from the car. The campsite is at quite an elevation so is chilly at night and early morning even in the summer."
What campers like
Proximity to glacial features: Many tent campers select sites based on glacier access. "Short drive from Seward and you're at this glacier with hiking and a small primitive campground. Walking around the park really hits you how bad climate change is. Our camp site was shady and forested," notes Dan N. from Exit Glacier Campground.
Water access: Tonsina Point at Caines Head offers beachfront camping options beyond the forest sites. "If it's a nice day like we had, bypass the official camping area and camp on the beach. We found a lovely flat spot well above the waterline. Woke up to eagles, harlequin ducks and glacier views," advises Stacey C. from Tonsina Point at Caines Head.
Solitude: The tent-focused campgrounds limit larger vehicles and groups. One camper at Crescent Creek notes, "Small campground only 9 sites, no host so pack in your wood. Set far back tons of privacy. #4 has a creek view, #9 and #7 were both also nice sites. Large sites great for tents however with food lockers."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear activity remains constant throughout the forest. "The bear storage bin had recently been attacked sporting huge dents and claw scratches," warns Stacey C. about Coeur D'Alene Campground. Most tent sites require proper food storage in provided lockers.
Weather preparation: Despite summer camping, nighttime temperatures drop significantly. At Crescent Creek, Michael V. explains, "This place is secluded, and magical. Tent camping works best here, sites are pretty small for anything bigger than a sprinter van."
Access limitations: Many tent sites require hiking in. For Tonsina Point, "It is very important to check the tides, and it is recommended to avoid hiking along the beach once the tide reaches +3," cautions Les R. Water taxis provide alternative access for $50 one-way.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Exit Glacier Campground offers youth-focused activities. "Park rangers patrol regularly, which is both a nuisance (when they woke my husband asking him if he had food in his tent) and an excellent safety feature considering how frequently bears are encountered in the area," notes Joy W.
Shorter hike-in options: Some tent sites offer easier access for families with young children. At Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites, Tanya B. explains, "There are so many options to backcountry camping and you don't even have to walk very far. You can drive down and camp at the pull offs."
Accessibility considerations: Some sites provide improved access. "There are two accessible camp sites. You are not allowed to store food at your campsite but there is a communial storage area for these items. There are vaulted toilets and a cooking area to use," reports Samantha M. about Exit Glacier.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: RV access remains extremely limited for tent camping areas in Chugach National Forest. "This poor campground needs some road work, lots of pot holes and short sites so large rigs won't fit here. You pass over three one lane bridges with a max of 10 tons allowed," warns Shadara W. about Crescent Creek.
Alternative parking: Some tent-focused areas provide limited vehicle parking. "RVs are not recommended on this road," notes Tanya B. regarding Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites. Most tent sites require walking gear in from parking areas.
Solar power options: For those with smaller camper vans, James B. notes about Lower Skilak Lake Campground, "There are a few spots great for solar and Starlink. Others are in trees. Really nice free campsite."
