Eagle River, Alaska camping areas sit at elevations between 300-500 feet, nestled between the Chugach Mountains and the waters of Cook Inlet. The region experiences a subarctic climate with summer temperatures averaging 55-65°F during peak camping season from May through September. Most campgrounds close during winter months due to heavy snowfall and freezing conditions.
What to do
Wildlife watching: Eagle River Nature Center trails provide excellent bear and moose viewing opportunities. "Look up every so often because there are also bald eagles around," notes Melisa A. about Eagle River Campground. Visitors should carry bear spray and maintain awareness.
Fishing: Bird Creek offers salmon fishing during summer runs. "There's a dock on the lake to catch some rainbows!" according to Fred S., who stayed at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground. Access points are located throughout the area with peak season typically July-August.
Hiking: Mountain trails range from easy to challenging within minutes of camping areas. "The hiking trails are absolutely beautiful!! Watch for Moose," warns Melisa A. Many trails connect directly to campgrounds, with the Twin Peaks trail offering panoramic views but rated as "pretty steep for kids" by Samantha M.
What campers like
Lake access: Eklutna Lake Campground provides direct water access for multiple activities. "Trails to hike or play on the lake! This campground is situated with access to Eklunta Lake and boy is that perfect," writes Shadara W. The campground features approximately 50 campsites with amenities including toilets and water.
River sounds: Many sites near flowing water enjoy natural noise cancellation. "We had a beautiful night! What a beautiful and well-maintained campground! 10/10 experience with the homies!" reports Anna P. about her stay at Eagle River Campground. The river drowns highway noise at most sites.
Dog exercise areas: Some local campgrounds feature dedicated pet areas. "This wooded campground is pretty basic, and cheerless, but did the job for a night or two... there's a fenced dog park for dog lovers and playground for kiddos," notes Abigail about Lake Lucile Campground, one of several dog friendly campgrounds near Eagle River.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears frequent all camping areas in the region. "Don't keep your food out of a secured box or by your tent, or rent one of their yurts. Make sure you take bear spray and/or a gun with you," advises Melisa A. Food storage containers are required at most sites.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "You do hear road noise from the highway but it's not terrible," explains Elizabeth G. about Bird Creek Campground. Sites farther from main roads generally offer more peace.
Mosquitoes: Summer brings significant insect activity to most campgrounds. "Also bring bug spray as the mosquitoes can be quite viscous. I bring a bug net for my head too, this way when they are extremely bad, I can still enjoy being outside," recommends Melisa A. Mosquito activity peaks during June and July evenings.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Several pet-accommodating campgrounds include children's play areas. "There's a playground for the kids, a bike path that can be taken to the shopette or one of the neighborhood playgrounds," mentions Megan W. about Black Spruce Campground, making it ideal for families with both children and dogs.
Tent sites: Look for dedicated tent camping areas. "Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table and there are trails within walking distance of your campsite," explains Elizabeth G. Many local campgrounds designate specific zones for tent camping away from RVs.
Safety measures: Some families choose cabins for added protection from wildlife. "There was a beautiful table with a map in the top- pretty awesome! There is a walking trail and it's close to the inlet for beluga whale watching," shares Aimee H. about cabins at Bird Creek Campground, one of the pet-friendly campgrounds in the Eagle River area.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: RV sites with full connections are limited but available. "This is one of the better mat su campgrounds. It does have some great day use parking and 39 campsites," explains Tanya B. about camping at Lake Lucile. Most hookup sites require reservations well in advance.
Year-round options: Few campgrounds remain open during winter. "Open to military, veterans and DOD only, must have access to JBER to use. Sites are far enough apart but dont have privacy of trees with the undergrowth all cleaned out," notes Shadara W. about Black Spruce Campground, one of the dog friendly campgrounds near Eagle River open year-round.
Dump stations: Not all campgrounds offer sewage disposal. "Water is available in the campground near the entrance to the campground loop," mentions Shari G. Campers should plan waste management carefully as dump stations may charge separate fees.
