The Copper River Basin surrounding Glennallen sits at approximately 1,400 feet elevation, creating a continental climate with significant temperature variations between seasons. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-70°F during camping season, while nights can drop into the 40s even in July. The area serves as a gateway to both Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and the Copper River, with most dog friendly campgrounds near Glennallen operating from late May through early September.
What to do
Fishing for Arctic grayling: Tolsona Creek offers fishing opportunities at Ranch House Lodge. As one camper noted, "Greyling and Trout Fishing in the Tolsona Creek. Clean bathrooms. Tavern that not only has a full bar, but makes homemade pizza and chili." Multiple fish species can be caught in the area streams, though most are not large.
Inner tube floating: During warmer summer days, creek floating is popular at some campgrounds. A camper at Ranch House Lodge mentioned, "We had a site on the creek but I don't think there is a bad site there. The owner Andy put a mini oreo on my daughters ice cream, she hasn't stopped talking about it."
Hiking to Tolsona Mud Volcanoes: This unique geological feature is accessible via a trail from Tolsona Wilderness Campground. "Near the entrance to the campground is the trailhead to the Tolsona Mud Volcanoes. The trail is usually pretty swampy, so be sure to wear tall boots and dress appropriately for the weather. Trail is 2-2.5mi round trip," explains one reviewer.
What campers like
Creekside sites: Many campgrounds feature water access. A visitor to Sailors Campground shared, "I love this campground right on the Gakona River. Any time I've gone I've been the only one. Different types of sites, is very buggy in July." Another camper mentioned, "Had the whole place to ourselves. Site #1 right next to river."
Privacy between sites: Spacious layouts provide separation at some campgrounds. As one Tolsona Wilderness Campground reviewer explained, "This is not your typical Alaskan RV park! Sites are large, spread out and private. Each has a fire ring and a picnic table. All are creekside."
Wildlife viewing: Bald eagles and other wildlife can be spotted from campsites. A camper at King For A Day Campground reported, "Bald eagles were playing, and flying around all day. The campsite we picked was by the river, plenty of room, picnic table, fire pit and a spot for our car."
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Most campgrounds near Glennallen operate for limited periods. Dry Creek State Rec Area has a typical season of "Jun 15 - Sep 15," similar to other facilities in the region.
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be intense, particularly in early summer. One camper at Dry Creek noted, "Dry it was not! We stopped here in mid-June and there was water everywhere and based on the number of mosquitos it had been there some time."
Variable facilities: Amenities differ significantly between campgrounds. A visitor mentioned, "This RV Park is right off the highway and close to all you will need in Glennallen. Right across from the gas station. You can fill up and grab snacks."
Cell service availability: Connectivity varies by location and carrier. A Sailors Campground visitor reported, "Rocking cell service for Verizon and ATT. Late July zero mosquitoes." However, other more remote sites may have limited or no coverage.
Tips for camping with families
Look for organized activities: Some pet-friendly campgrounds coordinate events for kids. A reviewer noted that Tolsona Wilderness Campground "owners maintain a camp store with basic necessities and also plan weekend activities and games for kids."
Consider creek recreation: Water activities can entertain children. One visitor to Klutina Salmon Charters & Campground said, "The campsites are decently sized. The people working, visiting and in the area were all great. Very respectful of each other, helping newer fishers with techniques and how to tips."
Choose sites with amenities: Families with dogs benefit from convenient facilities. A Ranch House Lodge camper reported, "We recently stayed at Ranch House Lodge in Tolsona, AK, and it was hands down one of the most memorable RV experiences we've ever had— not just because of the beautiful setting, but because of the incredible kindness and hospitality of the owners."
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: For larger rigs, research specific site dimensions. At Ranch House Lodge, one RVer mentioned, "Check-in was easy, and we were allowed to pick between two site options, and Karen was offering sites that were not next to another camper since the park wasn't full. We chose back-in site 52 with full hookups (50/30/20 AMP)."
Water systems vary: Some campgrounds have limitations due to remote locations. As noted about Ranch House Lodge, "This campground is essentially off-grid Alaska, with all the challenges and rules that come with that. For example, black tank flushing isn't allowed due to septic limitations."
Level sites can be hard to find: Look for campgrounds that specify level pads. A camper at Dry Creek State Rec Area mentioned, "A good combo of back in sites and pull through, however a little run down and sad. Pull through site too close together and back in sites were two to a group so side by side."
