Camping options near Elmendorf Air Force Base include established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities. Located in south-central Alaska's Cook Inlet region, this area features boreal forest terrain with elevations ranging from 300-1500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 55-75°F during camping season, while spring and fall campers should prepare for overnight temperatures that can drop to 30-40°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Eagle River Campground in Chugach State Park provides excellent wildlife spotting along its trails. As camper Melisa A. notes, "Look up every so often because there are also bald eagles around. If you want to venture out for a different hike with amazing views, check out Baldy."
Fishing access: Bird Creek Campground offers creek access for salmon fishing. "There's a gas station right across the street for fuel and maybe some other last minute supplies you may need," explains Elizabeth G., who visited during the off-season.
Biking trails: The Eklutna Lake Campground provides trail access around the glacier-fed lake. Samantha M. recommends, "This would be a great location to have a bicycle. We will definitely visit, hike and camp!"
Lake activities: Eklutna Lake offers kayaking and paddleboarding from May through September. "Eklutna lake is just beautiful. Its several miles up the mountain but the view there is just gorgeous," shares Barbara W., who visited the campground.
What campers like
Proximity to urban conveniences: Black Spruce Campground on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson offers a balance of outdoor experience with base amenities. According to Shadara W., it's "A great spot to chill for the weekend but still be close to base life. Great for veterans who want a base to explore Anchorage or visit family."
River access: Bird Creek Campground features "a walking trail and it's close to the inlet for beluga whale watching and if you're lucky a bore tide!" according to Aimee H., who stayed in one of the campground's cabins.
Pet friendly accommodation: Many campgrounds near Elmendorf Air Force Base welcome pets with specific guidelines. Taylor B. noted that Black Spruce Campground is "Very cool spot. All campsites were pull through. Facilities were nice and well maintained."
Well-spaced campsites: Campers appreciate the privacy at Eklutna Lake Campground. Vicki S. mentioned, "The sites are large and well-spaced, but not all quite as secluded as I'd like," adding that "Unlike some other campgrounds in the area, you are able to gather/chop dead fall wood for your campfire."
What you should know
Year-round options: While most campgrounds operate May-September, some facilities remain open in winter. Megan W. notes that Black Spruce Campground is "Open year round with 50/30/20amp sites (seasonal water hook up as well) and tent sites."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage and awareness. Melisa A. warns campers at Eagle River to "Don't keep your food out of a secured box or by your tent... Make sure you take bear spray and/or a gun with you."
Reservation requirements: Eagle River Nature Center's cabins and yurts require advance booking. Tanya B. advises they're "Accessible by foot year around. No horses or bikes allowed on trails," and that "This is bear county so bring your bear bells."
Campground access restrictions: Military ID or DOD credentials are required for Black Spruce Campground. Shadara W. clarifies it's "Open to military, veterans and DOD only, must have access to JBER to use."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Centennial Camper Park offers a playground for children and electric hookups. Despite mixed reviews about maintenance, Aimee H. called it "a FAB SURPRISE!! Hidden, secret, clean, and big tent spots!"
Beach activities: Eklutna Lake Campground has lake access perfect for children. Sara H. shared, "Also the dogs and kids love playing on the beach," and noted the campground was "spacious and very quite."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds have reported wildlife encounters. Jonathan H. noted about Centennial, "We showed up and there was a bunch of cops, a homeless guy was staying next to us, and there was a bear. Bathrooms were great though!"
Hiking options for different abilities: Eagle River Nature Center provides trail options for families. Amy B. simply states, "Love taking the kids to this one," highlighting its family-friendly appeal for pet owners seeking camping near Elmendorf Air Force Base.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Limited full-hookup sites exist in the area. At Golden Nugget RV Park, sk S. found "Wide gravel and grass site with wooden picnic table, no firepit. Showers were clean and free. Nice laundry room."
Seasonal restrictions: Most RV campgrounds operate seasonally with limited winter services. Lisa S. notes about Eagle River Campground, "Dump station on site. Restrooms available. There is a fee and a limit on how long you can stay. It was 4 days when we were there."
Urban proximity trade-offs: Downtown RV parks offer convenience but may have noise issues. When staying at Ship Creek RV Park, Bradee A. found it "Pretty loud campground with the trains and there was people fighting nearby," but added "Staff was very friendly and helpful."
Military-specific options: Black Spruce Campground on JBER provides full hookups for qualified users. Taylor B. noted, "All sites were pull through. Facilities were nice and well maintained. Full hook ups," making it a solid option for pet friendly camping near Elmendorf Air Force Base.
