Dispersed camping near Moose Pass, Alaska offers several free camping options in the Chugach National Forest. Located at approximately 700 feet elevation on the Kenai Peninsula, this region experiences mild summers with average temperatures in the 60s°F and significant precipitation throughout the year. Winter access becomes limited as snowfall accumulates, with most dispersed sites accessible only from late May through September.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, visitors regularly spot local wildlife. "We did see bear tracks and evidence of moose but didn't see any when we were there," reports one camper who stayed four nights in June.
Seaplane watching: The Moose Pass Trailhead offers unique aviation viewing. "Seaplanes take off from lake during the day - pretty awesome," notes one visitor. Another camper suggests: "Take the Southern spot for this" to get the best views of aircraft operations.
Sauna rental experience: Several campers mention renting mobile saunas delivered to Exit Glacier Road camping area. "We rented mobile saunas, and I highly recommend doing it, it was awesome!!" wrote one camper who provided contact information for the local service.
Hiking to alpine lakes: The Lost Lake Trailhead serves as the starting point for a 7-mile trail leading to designated backcountry sites. "After a 2-mile incline hike the trail opens up and levels off half way in," explains one experienced hiker familiar with the route.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Despite being popular, Exit Glacier Road offers ample space between campers. One visitor noted, "It's a huge area, maybe 5+ acres. Some shrubs around the lot which was nice for privacy."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear nights provide excellent astronomy viewing at many sites. "Nice level spots. Most with fire pit made with stones. Beautiful scenery around," reports a camper who appreciated the natural setting for overnight sky observation.
Free facilities: NF FH-14 Pullout Dispersed provides basic amenities at no cost. "Beach access through a short trail so we were able to explore and not a lot of road noise," explains one camper who discovered the site accidentally while taking a wrong turn.
Flat camping areas: Many dispersed sites feature level ground suitable for various camping setups. A visitor to Exit Glacier Road noted, "Nice flat area with a lot of areas tucked away if you want privacy." Another mentioned, "There were quite a few people there but everyone kept their distance and were respectful with regard to noise."
What you should know
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many camping areas near Moose Pass require appropriate vehicles. One visitor to Exit Glacier Road advised, "Would suggest having a higher clearance vehicle but there are some spots right at the front that you could get a smaller vehicle to."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between sites. A camper at Ruth Arcand Park noted moderate reception, while at Exit Glacier Road, one visitor reported: "In the spot we were at the cell service was almost non existent. We had one tiny bar for AT&T and nothing for Verizon."
Hidden entrances: Access points can be difficult to spot from main roads. "The entrance is pretty narrow so it might not be best for anything larger than a truck camper or van," warned one camper about Exit Glacier Road. Another mentioned, "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."
Maximum stay limitations: Forest Service regulations restrict camping duration in special use areas. "You are supposed to stay here a maximum of 8 nights (though I'm not sure how much this is enforced)," noted one visitor about the Exit Glacier dispersed area.
Tips for camping with families
Beach exploration areas: Shoreline access points provide natural play spaces. At NF FH-14 Pullout Dispersed, "Beach access through a short trail" offers opportunities for children to explore water edges safely.
Portable toilet availability: Some sites have basic sanitation facilities. At Ruth Arcand Park, a camper reported: "Has porta potty, bear safe trash, streetlight, off road enough to not be too loud," making it more suitable for families with young children.
Wildlife safety preparations: Decision Point Dispersed Camping offers secure food storage. "A number of tent platforms, 2 toilets and a few bear proof boxes," reports a frequent visitor who has camped there "at least 30 or 40 times."
Train viewing opportunities: The railroad running through the area can entertain transportation-enthusiastic children. A camper at Moose Pass Trailhead observed, "Hwy is loud but manageable, train as well," suggesting families position tents away from tracks for better sleep while still enjoying daytime train spotting.
Tips from RVers
Entrance navigation challenges: RV drivers should scout entrances before attempting access. "The entrance comes up quick and has huge rocks blocking part of the road," warned one RV camper about Exit Glacier Road, adding "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."
Level spot scouting: Finding flat parking areas requires patience. "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," advised an RV camper at Exit Glacier Road.
Respect for unofficial sites: Since many areas lack formal management, visitor conduct matters. "Since it is not an established campsite, there aren't any rules. People were driving and riding ATVs at late hours. Cars/trucks would zoom through the lot," reported one camper, suggesting selecting spots away from main driving paths.
