Copper Center, Alaska sits at the confluence of the Klutina and Copper Rivers in the Wrangell-St. Elias region at approximately 1,000 feet elevation. Camping options span from late May through early September with temperatures that can drop to near freezing even in summer months. Most campgrounds close by mid-September due to rapidly shortening daylight hours and colder nighttime temperatures.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Klutina Salmon Charters & Campground provides direct river access for salmon fishing during the summer runs. One visitor noted, "We caught lots of reds and exchanged some great receipts with others" while enjoying the communal fishing atmosphere.
Hiking at mud volcanoes: From Tolsona Wilderness Campground, access a 2-2.5 mile round trip trail to the Tolsona Mud Volcanoes. "The trail is usually pretty swampy, so be sure to wear tall boots and dress appropriately for the weather," advises one experienced hiker.
Creek swimming: Take advantage of clear water swimming holes at less developed sites. At Squirrel Creek, campers report "Great swimming hole and wonderful berry picking. Clear water creek and lake. Nice beach and secluded campsites."
Berry picking opportunities: Late July through August offers prime berry picking at several campgrounds. The woodland areas surrounding Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site provide abundant berry harvesting opportunities during late summer.
What campers like
River sounds for sleeping: Campers consistently mention the peaceful sound of running water as a highlight. At Ranch House Lodge, guests appreciate creekside sites where "you could tell how much love and care has gone into preserving that history" of the historic lodge property.
Private, spaced sites: Unlike more commercial campgrounds, Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site offers "sites all with trees galore, tables and firepits" that provide natural separation between camping areas. A reviewer noted, "The sites are all different and pretty secluded, hardly saw anyone while there."
Wildlife viewing: Beavers are active at Squirrel Creek, while bald eagles are commonly spotted at fishing campgrounds. One camper at King For A Day reported "Bald eagles were playing, and flying around all day" near the river.
Local interactions: Several campgrounds foster community connections. At King For A Day Campground & Charters, a visitor shared, "This place is truly local and supports local. We were treated like locals even though we were 2000 miles from home and never been to Alaska before."
What you should know
Limited availability: Most campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through August/September only. One camper noted "Check in was easy, and we were allowed to pick between two site options" at Ranch House Lodge, but this flexibility typically decreases during peak fishing seasons.
Mosquito intensity varies: Mosquitoes can be exceptionally numerous at certain campgrounds, particularly in June. A Dry Creek camper warned there was "water everywhere and based on the number of mosquitos it had been there some time," while a later summer visitor at Ranch House Lodge reported "Late July zero mosquitoes."
Site conditions change: Water accumulation affects many sites after rainfall. At Dry Creek State Rec Area, campers mention "the sites are okay most of them have the picnic tables and fire pits in low areas where water collects so you can't really use them."
Fishing-focused atmosphere: Some campgrounds prioritize fishing access over other amenities. One straightforward review noted, "This is a place to stay if all you want is fishing. Not a family campground."
Tips for camping with families
Choose camps with activities: Some campgrounds organize regular recreation for children. At Tolsona Wilderness Campground, "The owners maintain a camp store with basic necessities and also plan weekend activities and games for kids."
Consider creek safety: While creeks offer swimming and recreation opportunities, they require supervision. Sailors Campground provides direct river access at Site #1, but has minimal facilities with just "Porta Potty for toilet but it was clean."
Check bathroom facilities: Bathroom conditions vary dramatically between campgrounds. One family appreciated that Ranch House Lodge has "The best bathrooms. Not just clean but decorated in moose motif and wood. Very cute."
Plan indoor backup activities: Weather changes quickly, and having nearby indoor options helps during rainfall. Northern Nights Campground is "right across from the gas station. You can fill up and grab snacks" providing convenient access to supplies.
Tips from RVers
Utility limitations: Water systems at many campgrounds have restrictions. At Ranch House Lodge, campers note "black tank flushing isn't allowed due to septic limitations, trash is burned on-site so flammable or unburnable items are prohibited."
Pull-through availability: For larger rigs, Dry Creek offers "a good combo of back in sites and pull through" though some find them "too close together and back in sites were two to a group so side by side."
Leveling requirements: Site conditions vary across campgrounds. One RVer at Northern Nights reported "The sites are small and mostly unlevel" requiring additional stabilization equipment.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds with RV sites offer dump stations. Dry Creek provides a dump station, while other campgrounds may require using facilities in Glennallen approximately 15 miles away.
