Dispersed camping opportunities near Girdwood extend beyond established campgrounds. Several pullout locations along Turnagain Arm and forest roads permit overnight stays with minimal amenities. Winter camping remains accessible at some locations despite seasonal closures at most developed sites from September through May. Temperatures can drop below freezing even during summer months, particularly at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking with dogs: The 12-mile Bird to Girdwood paved trail welcomes leashed pets and offers wildlife viewing opportunities. "The nearby Bird to Girdwood trail provides a 12-mile one-way paved route ideal for walking dogs, with fairly flat elevation suitable for most fitness levels," notes a visitor to Bird Creek Campground.
River exploration: Several campgrounds provide direct water access for fishing or wildlife viewing. At Girdwood Campground, "The camp sites are a little small, but the place has a comfortable feel! Met so many new friends by the fire. Beware of bears! The campsite seems to be really preventative though," according to Sarah B.
Winter recreation: Some locations remain popular during colder months for snow activities. "For the winter, I would still recommend coming out here if for nothing more than snowboarding on Aleyeska. Tons of festivals year round so plan accordingly, my favorite was Octoberfest," mentions Randall J. about visiting the Girdwood area.
What campers like
Common gathering areas: Some campgrounds promote social interaction through shared facilities. "Small private walk up sites. Parking is close. There is a large common area for a camp fire and covered picnic tables. I enjoyed the common areas as that facilitates meeting new people," writes Kamicia M. about Eklutna Lake Campground.
Cabin accommodations: Public use cabins provide shelter options beyond tent camping. "Bird Creek camp/ RV/ Cabin site is a beautiful 25 minute journey south of Anchorage. Far enough away but close enough to town if you feel the need to get back to the city... there is a small wood stove and wood supplied for each cabin which was amazing!" shares Aimee H.
Wildlife viewing: The region offers frequent animal sightings for nature enthusiasts. "This is a great place to see bears! Moose.... Foxes. The waters are clear and the landscape is so lush. There are a ton of flies though in the summer. Especially next to all this water. Mosquitos are aggressive at night," warns Carly S. about camping near Eklutna.
What you should know
Bug protection: Insects can be problematic during warm months. At Gold Creek Gold Mine, "Bug shelters highly recommended because depending on the year it's mosquitoes, flies, or bees," advises Tanya B. Another camper adds, "We are used to mosquitos and flies, but our experience here was quite traumatic... As soon as it got warm, an insane amount of flies came out."
Bear safety: Proper food storage and wildlife awareness remain critical. "Never let your guard down when you hike here as there are surprised around every corner. People laugh when I tell them a beaver chased me.. funny as it is.. THAT SUCKER WAS HUGE and chased me good ways," reports Aimee H. about trails near Spencer Bench.
Temperature fluctuations: Weather changes rapidly even during summer months. "The campsite is at quite an elevation so is chilly at night and early morning even in the summer," notes Stacey C. about Coeur D'Alene Campground, highlighting the need for appropriate clothing and gear regardless of season.
Tips for camping with families
Spacious sites: Some campgrounds offer more room than others for children to play. At Eagle River Campground, "Camp ground was spacious and very quite. It was a rainy and windy weekend and we still had fun. Rode our bikes down the lake side trial, people were nice and respectful. Also the dogs and kids love playing on the beach," shares Sara H.
Safety considerations: Wildlife concerns affect family camping choices. "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. Also bring bug spray as the mosquitoes can be quite viscous," advises Melisa A.
Water activities: Lakes and streams provide entertainment options. "Eklutna lake is just beautiful. Its several miles up the mountain but the view there is just gorgeous. The camp sites r nicely placed apart to not be right on top of ur neighbor," notes Barbara W., mentioning additional amenities like "rentals" that families might appreciate.
Tips from RVers
Limited large rig options: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Girdwood have size restrictions. "This park fills up quickly and does have electric hook ups... Be ready to see into your neighbors RV and it is always worth a call ahead because of the limited campgrounds in Hope they can fill up quickly," warns Tanya B. about Historic Hope Cafe & Campground.
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. "There is road noise but that does calm down at night. Pit toilets around, clean and stocked. No water, so bring some. Cellphone signal (t mobile) and Internet pretty good," reports Lisa F., noting the trade-off between convenience and quiet.
Alternative non-designated sites: When established campgrounds fill up, dispersed options exist. "This is just a pull off off the highway. Meant for rest stops for rvs and such," mentions jeff about one highway pullout, highlighting the need to distinguish between actual campgrounds and emergency parking areas.
