Valdez serves as the primary access point for camping near Cordova, Alaska, with seasonal conditions playing a significant role in accessibility. The Cordova area sits within the Chugach National Forest's coastal rainforest zone, receiving approximately 160 inches of precipitation annually. Summer temperatures average 55-65°F, while winter temperatures typically range from 15-30°F with heavy snowpack limiting access to many cabin sites.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at waterfall sites: The Valdez Glacier area provides excellent opportunities for viewing wildlife near waterfalls. "There is a waterfall on the campground across from the trash dump," notes one camper, while another mentions, "Quiet place to stay minus the planes taking off randomly. Loved not having service. And loved the waterfall in the campground."
Alpine hiking and fishing: Thompson Pass near Blueberry Lake State Recreation Site offers alpine hiking trails and fishing opportunities. "There is a great loop trail less than 3 miles if you are just passing through," explains one visitor. Another adds, "Beautiful mountains and good fishing!" The recreation site provides access to several trails ranging from easy lake loops to more challenging alpine routes.
Harbor activities and boat excursions: Downtown Valdez at Bear Paw RV Park provides convenient access to boat-based activities. "You are right by the harbor and walking distance to shops/restaurants," reports a camper. Many visitors use this location as a base for fishing charters and glacier viewing boat tours, with one visitor noting, "If you are going on a fishing trip it might be a good choice as you can walk across the street to the docks."
What campers like
Mountain and glacier views: The panoramic mountain landscapes surrounding Valdez KOA receive consistent praise from campers. "Very pretty spot with some space to walk the dogs and a fantastic bike/walking trail," writes one visitor. Another notes the campground has "Sites along the paved bike trail but a bit outside downtown for riding in for us out of shapers."
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the value of private sites in this region, particularly at Valdez KOA. "Sites 38-44 our favorites for privacy and trees and across from a small pond," writes one reviewer. The forested setting provides natural separation between many camping spots, creating a more secluded wilderness experience compared to the more open parking-lot style campgrounds closer to town.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness receives specific mention across multiple sites. "Buildings are kept very clean and supplies always filled," notes a camper at Valdez KOA. Another mentions, "The bathrooms and showers are CLEAN!" This attention to maintenance provides reliable access to basic amenities despite the remote location.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Transportation to certain campgrounds requires advance planning. For Childs Glacier Recreation Area, accessing the site proves particularly difficult. As one visitor explains, "This campground is inaccessible by road since 2011. Not sure when this was written but should be updated with the herculean efforts necessary to get there. The campground is open, but only if you can get there."
Seasonal insect activity: Mosquitoes present a significant challenge during summer months. "This campground is in the Thompson Pass and the scenery is unbelievable. The campsite has vault toilets, but they were clean. There was drinking water. The only downside was the mosquitoes," reports a Blueberry Lake visitor. Another suggests, "The spots were big but the mosquitoes were terrible. Camping here early on the season would have been better."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. "Loved not having service," mentions one Valdez Glacier camper who appreciated the disconnection. At Blueberry Lake State Recreation Site, a visitor cautions, "There is no cellphone service at all, so make sure you download what you need."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families appreciate designated recreation areas at certain campgrounds. Valdez KOA provides "a playground for the human kiddos and even another for the fur babies in your life," according to one reviewer. This offers structured activity space for children within the campground boundaries.
Bear awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation when camping with children. "We've seen plenty of bears (black mostly and one grizzly on a hike)," reports a family staying at Valdez KOA. Another camper notes, "With sun all day and night it is very hard to keep the wilderness from taking back spaces," creating potential wildlife corridors near camping areas.
Alpine exploration with safety precautions: Higher elevation sites offer family-friendly exploration opportunities with proper preparation. At Blueberry Lake, one visitor advises, "Bring an extra blanket since it gets chilly at the higher elevation," highlighting the temperature differences between coastal and alpine camping locations.
Tips from RVers
Downtown convenience vs. wilderness experience: RV campers must choose between accessibility and natural surroundings. "It's more of a place to just park your rig, but with all the amenities within walking distance in every direction, it's a great jump-off place," explains a Bear Paw RV Park visitor. Another adds, "The utilities were well placed in the center of the long pad, allowing us to drop the patio on our 40' toy hauler and still park our F450."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites remain limited in the region. "If you are looking for hook ups this is the place to go. Camp in the wilderness but still get your emails," notes one camper about Bear Paw RV Park. Another visitor mentions Valdez KOA offers "sites of all variety for hookups but a nice campground all around," providing options for different RV needs.
Dump station locations: RVers should plan for waste management in advance. "Store on site, firewood for purchase and dump," mentions a Valdez KOA visitor, highlighting the importance of identifying service points when traveling in this remote region.
