The Chugiak area sits at approximately 200 feet above sea level in Alaska's Matanuska-Susitna Valley, with seasonal temperatures ranging from below freezing in winter to 70°F in summer months. Camping options near Chugiak include both military installations requiring access credentials and civilian RV sites within 30 miles of the area. Most RV sites near Chugiak, Alaska operate seasonally from May through September due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide lake access for fishing. Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground features a dock where guests can "catch some rainbows," according to Fred S., who also noted the park has "daily, weekly, monthly rates" for extended stays.
Paddle sports: Johnson Pond offers rentals for water activities. At Forget Me Not RV Park, Jessica J. mentions "there are kayaks, canoes, & paddle boats for rent" with "beachfront sites" available for those wanting water views.
Hiking access: The region connects to trail systems for day hikes. Tanya B. reports that Forget Me Not RV Park is "close to a bike trail" with "tons of wild flowers" and a "sandy beach to Johnson pond," making it convenient for outdoor recreation.
What campers like
Mountain views: The panoramic scenery stands out in camper reviews. At Mountain View RV Park, Tanya B. highlights the "amazing views" noting that "the best sites are the farthest from the tree line so you can see the great mountain views."
Year-round accessibility: Some campgrounds remain open during winter months. Fred S. appreciated Fox Run Lodge's year-round operation, mentioning they have "a mix of full hookups, electric and water, and primitive sites" to accommodate different camping styles.
Pavilion amenities: Communal gathering spaces enhance the camping experience. Courtney H. at Anchorage N KOA Journey (formerly Big Bear Campground) enjoyed the "playground with a communal pavilion for people to gather round together," which was especially appreciated during their family's "trial run with our brand new travel trailer."
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several RV parks experience road noise. Michael H. noted that while Forget Me Not RV Park is "right off the highway but somehow quiet," Jessica J. mentioned you do "hear noise from the Highway" and "some long term residents were running their generators consistently."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Black Spruce RV Park operates from May 1 to October 1, and Joe C. called it "one of the better places IMO to park my rig while out here in this beautiful city."
Site spacing: Many reviewers comment on proximity between camping spots. About Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground, Daniel W. observed "spots are close together" and noted that "the hookups are on the opposite side if you back in," recommending visitors "bring an extra extension cord."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer children's play areas. Courtney H. mentioned her daughter "loved it so much that she begged to stay another night" at Anchorage N KOA Journey, which features "a playground with a communal pavilion" and is "pet friendly."
Beach activities: Sandy shorelines provide safe water play. Jessica J. recommends Forget Me Not RV Park as a "nice place to take the kiddos" with site #8 being a "beachfront site" though she suggests "#7 is wider for anyone trying to decide which one."
Laundry facilities: Essential for extended family trips. Golden Nugget RV Park offers "on-site laundry and bathrooms with showers" according to Lydia N., who stayed there for two months, noting there's also "security patrol for your safety day and night."
Tips from RVers
Extension cords: Bring additional power cords for awkward hookup positions. Daniel W. advised that at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground, "the hookups are on the opposite side if you back in" but "it is not an issue if you bring an extra extension cord."
Early arrival fees: Check campground policies about check-in times. At Anchorage N KOA Journey, MickandKarla W. reported "arriving early cost us a $20 fee" and noted that check-in was "unpleasant as the front desk person was snippy."
Site selection for large rigs: Request specific sites if you have a big rig. MickandKarla W. found that at Anchorage N KOA Journey, their reserved "deluxe site" pad "was too short and forced us to park our F-450 diagonally and still no room to put the patio down," but when they needed to stay an extra night, "back-in site K4 was definitely a much better site with plenty of space for our size rig."
