Camping near Chugiak, Alaska, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Eklutna - Chugach State Park. The Twin Peak trailhead is nearby, and hikers rave about the beautiful scenery. One reviewer mentioned, "The trails were beautiful, lake view beautiful, lots of animals to see."
- Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, South Rolly Lake Campground is a great spot. Campers have noted, "The campground is great if you like fishing or canoeing."
- Paddling: For those who love water sports, Eklutna - Chugach State Park offers flat water paddling opportunities. Just be cautious of the wind, as one visitor warned, "The lake can kick up some pretty mean chop during windy afternoons."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the stunning landscapes. One happy camper at Bird Creek Campground said, "This is a great little campground between Anchorage and Girdwood, right along the Turnagain Arm inlet."
- Clean Facilities: Many campers have praised the cleanliness of the facilities. A reviewer at Eagle River Campground mentioned, "The bathroom was clean," which is always a plus when camping.
- Wildlife: The chance to see wildlife is a big draw. One visitor at Eagle River Campground shared, "We also had a moose and calf hanging around."
What you should know:
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in the summer. A camper at Bird Creek Campground noted, "It was 54 Degrees in July… and Mosquitoes ate us alive."
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Eagle River Campground, have limited amenities. One reviewer pointed out, "No hookups, no trash service and no RV dumping."
- First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Finger Lake State Rec Area advised, "I would try to show up closer to noon after people are leaving those sites."
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with spacious sites and activities for kids. South Rolly Lake Campground is noted for being great for families, with one reviewer saying, "If you have kids bring their bikes!"
- Pack Bug Spray: Given the mosquito situation, it's wise to bring bug spray. A camper at Bird Creek Campground mentioned the bugs were quite bad.
- Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep the kids entertained. One family at Matanuska River Park Campground enjoyed the playground nearby.
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A reviewer at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground mentioned, "The only bad we could think of was spots are close together."
- Bring Extra Cords: If you're backing into a site, make sure to bring an extra extension cord for hookups. A camper at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground noted this as a helpful tip.
- Look for Amenities: Some campgrounds offer great amenities, like Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground, where one camper said, "The on-site restaurant is a gem."
Camping near Chugiak, Alaska, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
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