Tent camping sites near Moose Pass, Alaska range from established campgrounds to dispersed locations across the Chugach National Forest. Located on the Kenai Peninsula at an elevation of approximately 700 feet, the area experiences summer daytime temperatures averaging 60-70°F, dropping to 40-50°F at night. Many campsites sit along lakes and rivers in dense spruce forests where campers often encounter wildlife including bears, moose, and eagles.
What to do
Hiking trails: Access the Harding Ice Field from Exit Glacier Campground where hikers can experience both easy and challenging routes. "Exit glacier is beautiful with nice trails. My 5 and 7 year olds did the walk just fine from parking lot to the glacier (maybe 20 min). There is a one mile wheelchair accessible trail loop with views of the glacier," reports Samantha M.
Water activities: Kayak or fish at Lower Skilak Lake Campground where the large lake offers multiple recreation options. Jonathan V. notes it's "a good short weekend trip from Anchorage with some great fishing on the lake or in the rivers nearby for some salmon."
Wildlife viewing: Scan the shorelines at Tern Lake for various bird species and larger mammals. "Sometimes you will see Bald Eagles, Trumpeter Swans, Loons, and other kinds of wildlife," shares Mary A. about the day use area that serves as a convenient wildlife observation point when traveling through the region.
What campers like
Peaceful soundscapes: Many tent sites near small streams provide natural white noise for sleeping. "There's a little stream that flows by the campground, which is nice to fall asleep to," notes Stacey C. about Coeur D'Alene Campground, which offers walk-in tent sites with additional privacy.
Secluded spots: For campers seeking solitude, Crescent Creek provides excellent isolation. "Small campground only 9 sites, no host so pack in your wood... Set far back tons of privacy," describes Shadara W. about this quiet location that requires crossing three one-lane bridges with a 10-ton weight limit.
Glacier proximity: Camp within viewing distance of glaciers at several locations. "Nothing beats camping near a glacier!" declares Chloe D. about the scenery at Exit Glacier Campground, where tent sites allow quick access to glacier viewing trails.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: All campgrounds in the region have specific bear management requirements. At Exit Glacier Campground, "You are not allowed to store food at your campsite but there is a communal storage area for these items," explains Samantha M. This safety measure is strictly enforced by rangers who patrol regularly.
Weather considerations: Despite summer camping, temperatures can drop significantly at night in higher elevation sites. "The campsite is at quite an elevation so is chilly at night and early morning even in the summer," warns Stacey C. about camping at Coeur D'Alene Campground.
Site limitations: Crescent Creek has significant access restrictions. "This poor campground needs some road work, lots of pot holes and short sites so large rigs won't fit here. You pass over three one lane bridges with a max of 10 tons allowed," cautions Shadara W., making this location better for smaller vehicles and tent campers.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly hikes: Select campgrounds with shorter, accessible trails for younger children. Samantha M. reports that at Exit Glacier, "My 5 and 7 year olds did the walk just fine from parking lot to the glacier (maybe 20 min)," making this an excellent choice for families with small children.
Backcountry options: For families wanting to try backcountry camping without difficult hikes, Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites offers easier access. "There are so many options to backcountry camping and you don't even have to walk very far. You can drive down and camp at the pull offs," explains Tanya B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Plan camping trips around prime wildlife viewing times (early morning/evening). At Lower Skilak Lake, Jessica J. reports, "We saw black bears, mamma and cubs. Very curious cubs got very close, momma didn't seem to mind or get aggressive. Still be prepared for an encounter for your safety."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many of the best tent camping near Moose Pass, Alaska have limitations for larger vehicles. Michael V. notes about Crescent Creek, "Tent camping works best here, sites are pretty small for anything bigger than a sprinter van."
Solar access: Lower Skilak Lake Campground has varying site exposure for those relying on solar power. James B. advises, "There are a few spots great for solar and Starlink. Others are in trees," which can help RVers plan appropriate site selection based on power needs.
Cell service gaps: Most campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. Tanya B. mentions about Lower Skilak Lake, "No cell service so bring a book," while Jessica J. adds, "So many options to do, you easily forget you don't have cell service."
