Cabins near Chugiak, Alaska offer year-round access to recreation within the Chugach Mountain Range. Located about 20 miles northeast of Anchorage at an elevation of approximately 200 feet, this region experiences temperatures ranging from -20°F in winter to 70°F during summer months. Overnight facilities include rustic cabins, camping areas, and yurts strategically positioned near trails and waterways throughout Chugach State Park and surrounding recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bird Creek Campground provides easy access to popular fishing spots where anglers target salmon during seasonal runs. "Located around 5 minutes to Eagle River. Beautiful location on River. ADA accessibility. Dump station on site. Restrooms available. There is a fee and a limit on how long you can stay. It was 4 days when we were there. Trails are nearby and fishing opportunities," notes one Eagle River Campground visitor.
Hiking nearby trails: Numerous cabin rentals connect to trail systems offering various difficulty levels. "Lots of campsites to choose from both double, single and handicapped. First come, first served. Fire rings, tables, restrooms, firewood for purchase ($15) and camp host. Two sets of walk in tent sites with food lockers also available," reports a camper at Eklutna Lake Campground.
Canoeing and kayaking: Several rental facilities provide watercraft for lake exploration, particularly during summer months. "This is a great place to see bears! Moose.... Foxes. The waters are clear and the landscape is so lush. There are a ton of flies though in the summer. Especially next to all this water. Mosquitos are aggressive at night," warns an Eklutna Lake visitor.
What campers like
Private sites: Many cabin locations feature natural separation from neighboring campers. "This seems like a well loved campsite and the lake was beautiful! Lots of sites to choose from and a lot of moose!" says a visitor at South Rolly Lake Campground.
Proximity to wildlife viewing: Multiple cabins offer opportunities to observe native animals safely. "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, or rent one of their yurts," advises an Eagle River camper.
Multi-season activities: Several cabins remain accessible during winter months, offering different recreational opportunities throughout the year. "Well maintained trails but a walk to the cabin or yurts. Accessible by foot year around. No horses or bikes allowed on trails. Tent camping along the Crow Creek Pass Trail," explains a visitor at Eagle River Nature Center.
What you should know
Bear safety precautions: Visitors should properly store food and use bear-resistant containers in all cabins and camping areas. "Make sure you take bear spray and/or a gun with you. Also bring bug spray as the mosquitoes can be quite viscous. I bring a bug net for my head too, this way when they are extremely bad, I can still enjoy being outside," recommends an Eagle River Campground visitor.
Seasonal access limitations: Many cabin roads become difficult to navigate during winter months, requiring advance planning. "Camp ground was spacious and very quite. It was a rainy and windy weekend and we still had fun. Rode our bikes down the lake side trial, people were nice and respectful. Also the dogs and kids love playing on the beach," shares an Eklutna Lake camper.
Supply considerations: Most cabin accommodations require visitors to bring specific gear. "I love when the sites still feel like they are in the forest. Great place," notes a visitor at Bird Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly hiking: Several cabin locations feature shorter trails manageable for children. "We love taking the kids to this one and soon I will do the trail to crows pass from the nature center," mentions an Eagle River visitor.
Swimming areas: Some cabin locations offer designated swimming spots during summer months. "We spent a whole day enjoying the water, fishing and exploring. The camp spots are conveniently located next to the launch as well. The restrooms were very well kept which is also a bonus when camping!" reports a camper at Nancy Lake State Recreation Site.
Playground access: Select cabin rental facilities include play equipment for younger visitors. "Great spot to camp when you don't want to travel too far from home. Would recommend!" says a South Rolly Lake Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Several Chugiak area campgrounds offer various utility connections for RVs near cabin accommodations. "Right off the Highway this RV park is not bad. Although I prefer my camping more rural. If you are visiting and just want to start one way out of Anchorage this could be a choice for you. With everything from cabins, to full RV hook ups, to dry RV camping, and lakeside tent spots," explains a visitor at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground.
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds publish specific length limitations for RV sites. "Great park with daily, weekly, monthly rates. There is a mix of full hookups, electric and water, and primitive sites so try and reserve if possible. They have 2$ laundry, free showers, restrooms, firewood, a small store, restaurant, and really friendly owners," recommends a Fox Run Lodge visitor.
Year-round operations: Select facilities maintain winter access for RVs and cabin guests. "Several large pull through sites. We choose the B loop and have a beautiful site on a hill. Large and roomy. Potable water available in nearby Willow at Three Bears. Pit toilets and we'll water in the campground (boil water)," notes a South Rolly Lake camper.
