Tent campsites near Girdwood, Alaska sit within the rugged Chugach Mountains at elevations ranging from 250 to 3,000 feet. This region experiences cool summers with average July temperatures of 55-65°F and significant rainfall of 70+ inches annually. Winter camping opportunities remain accessible for experienced backcountry campers, though many sites close seasonally after the first significant snowfall.
What to do
Glacier viewing by train: The Spencer Whistle Stop campground provides unique access to Spencer Glacier between July and September. "There are two group campsites that must be reserved through the Alaska Railroad 800.544.0552," notes reviewer Tanya B. at Spencer Whistle Stop.
Backcountry hiking: Opportunities abound at various sites near Hope, with minimal walking required. "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," shares a reviewer at Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites.
Fishing and wildlife viewing: Tern Lake serves as a prime wildlife observation point along the Seward/Sterling Highway junction. "Sometimes you will see Bald Eagles, Trumpeter Swans, Loons, and other kinds of wildlife," says Mary A., though this is primarily a day-use area rather than overnight camping.
What campers like
Accessible wilderness: Coeur D'Alene Campground offers walk-in sites that balance wilderness with convenience. "It's walk in, but not far from the car. The vault toilets have been clean every time we've come up," writes Stacey C. at Coeur D'Alene Campground.
Weather considerations: Campers appreciate knowing about temperature variations before arriving. "The campsite is at quite an elevation so is chilly at night and early morning even in the summer. There's a little stream that flows by the campground, which is nice to fall asleep to," adds Stacey C.
Seasonal transport options: Alaska Marine Highway ferries provide unique camping access options. "Our journey started in Bellingham where we boarded the Columbia... It carries about 500 passengers who can either rent a cabin for an extra fee, pitch a tent on one of the decks, or sleep in a lounge chair," explains Fain H. at Alaska Marine Highway.
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear precautions are essential throughout the region. "Many choices for length of hikes depending on which loop you choose. This is bear county so bring your bear bells," advises Tanya B. at Eagle River Nature Center.
Insect management: Bug density varies by location. "The bugs are pretty heavy right next to the river but deep in the woods are are very few," notes a camper at Coeur D'Alene Campground.
Trail access limitations: Some popular camping areas have access challenges. At Rabbit Lake, "This is a strange one. 4.4 mile hike up the road. A road that obviously people don't want you to go down. You must park at the gravel parking lot walk up following the road," explains Tanya B.
Tips for camping with families
Short backpacking options: The walk-in tent sites at Coeur D'Alene offer an introductory backpacking experience. "Nice little campground with small amt of campsites, not really suitable for large groups or RVs so it's nice and quiet," notes Stacey C.
Food storage solutions: Dedicated bear-proof storage exists at some sites. "Walk in campsites are very close and have bear proof food storage," explains a reviewer at Coeur D'Alene Campground.
Entry-level backpacking: For families new to wilderness camping, Chugach offers graduated options. "There are multiple sites you can reserve but there are also some backcountry spots you can just walk to. Be warned that you need to bring all of your supplies with you, water, food, toiletries," advises Gillian H. at Chugach Backcountry Camping.
Tips from RVers
Road limitations: RVs face significant access challenges on backcountry roads. "RVs are not recommended on this road," warns a reviewer about the Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites.
Alternative transportation: For those with RVs, consider base camping and using Alaska Railroad for backcountry access. "Just remember pack it in pack it out on the train. Also available for a great day hike. At a $132 a person it is not a cheap hike," notes Tanya B. regarding Spencer Whistle Stop.
Off-road exploration: While not suitable for typical RVs, some areas offer 4WD opportunities. "Also has a couple mile service trail/off road trail that is a fun little drive. 4WD ONLY," mentions Heidi G. about Tern Lake.
