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Best Dispersed Camping near Cooper Landing, AK

20 Reviews

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Cooper Landing, Alaska. Moose Pass offers a spacious lakefront area approximately 25 miles from Seward with level spots and stone fire pits. The site provides no services but allows vehicle access and accommodates various rig sizes. Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area features extensive riverside camping on a gravel riverbed with convenient proximity to both Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park. This area permits stays up to 8 nights with no facilities, requiring visitors to pack out all waste. The entrance can be difficult to spot and requires high-clearance vehicles to navigate.

Lost Lake Trailhead provides basic parking lot camping with vault toilets but no other amenities. The access road requires 4x4 capability, and the Forest Service encourages hikers to use designated sites at Lost Lake itself rather than camping at the trailhead. NF FH-14 Pullout offers simple roadside stopping areas with beach access via a short trail. Backcountry camping restrictions apply throughout the region, with most sites permitting fires in established rings only and requiring bear-safe food storage practices.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cooper Landing, Alaska (9)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cooper Landing, AK

17 Photos of 9 Cooper Landing Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cooper Landing, AK

20 Reviews of 9 Cooper Landing Campgrounds

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Quiet campground with nice views for our mobile sauna rental

    I stayed here with a group of my friends in our sprinter vans for two nights. Campground was quiet both nights. There was plenty of space between each party, so it felt relatively private.

    The little road can be hard to spot, we drove right passed it the first time. Driving from the road is BUMPY, you'll need a vehicle with high clearance.

    We rented mobile saunas, and I highly recommend doing it, it was awesome!! Here is the info: https://sewardsaunas.com/

    Because this is not a formal campground, but rather a special use area, keep the following in mind:

    • you are supposed to stay here a maximum of 8 nights (though I'm not sure how much this enforced)
    • There are no trash or toilets on-site, so plan to pack everything out
    • If you're not sure which areas you can camp, see this map: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/lands/designated-use-areas/exit-glacier-sua/pdf/exit-glacier-map.pdf
  • Tanya B.
    Aug. 14, 2020

    Lost Lake Trailhead

    Need 4x4 for this road. Pack it in, pack it out.

    The road after the sign is rough and a good 4 X 4 or ATV is recommended. This 7-mile hiking trail will take you to Lost Lake. After a 2-mile incline hike the trail opens up and levels off half way in.

    The Forest service recommends that you camp on Lost Lake at designated campsites. This is bear country and some of the camp sites have bear boxes. There are also pit toilets but always pack your own TP. The Forest service ask that backpackers are strongly encouraged not to camp on the Lost Lake peninsulas so that tundra can grow back a reminder that FIRES ARE PROHIBITED in alpine areas.

    Cell Service: at sign Internet: no 2020 Cost: free Distance from Anchorage: 110 miles Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 4-8 depends on weather

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 21, 2018

    Decision Point Dispersed Camping

    About a 5 mile ocean kayaking trip from Whittier, Alaska, tent platforms

    A 5 mile paddle from Whittier, AK. Watch the weather waves can build up quickly. A number of tent platforms, 2 toilets and a few bear proof boxes. From this camp ground it is time to "decide" which way you want to go as the sound really opens up to you. There is fresh water but boil or filter it first. I think I must have camped here at least 30 or 40 times, most of it before tent platforms, toilets or bear containers. I've camped here May June July August

  • j
    Jun. 21, 2025

    NF FH-14 Pullout Dispersed - Chugach NF

    Not a dispersed campsite

    This is just a pull off off the highway. Meant for rest stops for rvs and such. Definitely got for tent use. Avoid.

  • Kristi D.
    Aug. 26, 2023

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Super convenient to Kenai Fjords

    Boondocking galore!!! It gets five stars for what it is. Beautiful spots right by the river and five minutes from Seward and shopping one way and five minutes from Kenai Fjords NP the other.

    The entrance comes up quick and has huge rocks blocking part of the road. We blew by it the first time and said no way, but then we pulled over and I ran to see who was camping and surprisingly a bunch of bigger campers etc got back there so we gave it a go and we got thru better than we thought. You just need to take your time!

    Big gravel like space but isn't level so you need to drive slow, but you can find a level spot to camp for the night. No amenities as you are boondocking, but well worth it for the night!!! Highly recommend!!!

  • Kevin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Moose Pass

    Large open area, approx 25 miles from Seward

    Moose Pass Trailhead

    As with most BLM trailheads, zut services. Big area, some shaded mostly unshaded but big enough to have your own space

    Seaplanes take off from lake during the day - pretty awesome

    No onsite services. Seward offers free dump and potable water - near their RV parks

    Starlink, Visible/Verizon and Cricket/Att all good

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Quite and Beautiful

    Google maps will take you straight to the entrance. It's a bit hard to see, but you can't miss the massive boulder right next to the road.

    Nice flat area with a lot of areas tucked away if you want privacy.

    There were quite a few people there but everyone kept their distance and were respectful with regard to noise.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Great dispersed camping in Seward

    Stayed 4 nights 6/4/23. Very close to Seward activities and Exit Glacier - Harding ice field hikes. Area can handle most size rigs. We have small pull behind trailer but had an Airstream and variety of other campers in the area. Entrance is next to a couple of large boulders but is wide enough to get through. Scenery was outstanding with snow covered peaks in all directions. We did see bear tracks and evidence of moose but didn’t see any when we were there. We highly recommend this camping location.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Moose Pass

    Incredible views

    A great open spot for many vehicles, including big rigs. Some spots are tucked into trees for more privacy while others are open for better Starlink and solar. Some spots right on the water. Right off the road but far enough back that the noise isn’t too bad.

Guide to Cooper Landing

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cooper Landing, Alaska, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape into the wild.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The Moose Pass area offers a calm and spacious environment, ideal for enjoying the serene views of the surrounding lake and mountains.
  • At the Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, campers can soak in breathtaking scenery while being just a short drive from Seward's attractions.
  • For those seeking a picturesque backdrop, Tustumena Lake features individual sites with lake access and stunning views of snow-capped peaks.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Cooper Landing

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Cooper Landing, Alaska

  • Be prepared for a rugged drive to the Lost Lake Trailhead, as a 4x4 vehicle is recommended for navigating the rough roads.
  • When camping at the Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, remember to pack out all trash and be mindful of the lack of amenities.
  • If you're looking for a quiet spot with plenty of space, consider Portage Valley, where you can find a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping sites in Cooper Landing, Alaska?

Cooper Landing offers several dispersed camping options. Lost Lake Trailhead provides dispersed camping opportunities along a 7-mile hiking trail that leads to Lost Lake. The road to the trailhead is rough, requiring a 4x4 vehicle or ATV. For those seeking water access, Decision Point Dispersed Camping is accessible via a 5-mile paddle from Whittier, featuring tent platforms, toilets, and bear-proof boxes. Other options include pullouts along highways and forest service roads throughout the Chugach National Forest. Always check current forest service regulations before setting up camp, as designated areas may change seasonally.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Cooper Landing?

Dispersed camping in Cooper Landing follows Chugach National Forest regulations. At Moose Pass, like most BLM trailheads, there are minimal services but space to spread out. The Forest Service recommends camping only in designated campsites at locations like Lost Lake to minimize environmental impact. Areas such as Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area have specific entrance points and can accommodate various camping setups. Generally, pack out all trash, store food securely in bear-proof containers, stay at least 100 feet from water sources, and limit stays to 14 days in a 30-day period. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally, so check current conditions before your trip.

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Cooper Landing, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Cooper Landing, AK is Moose Pass with a 4.5-star rating from 4 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Cooper Landing, AK?

TheDyrt.com has all 9 dispersed camping locations near Cooper Landing, AK, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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