Trail River Campground and Eagle River Nature Center offer rustic glamping alternatives near Hope, Alaska. The Hope area sits at the base of the Chugach Mountains where multiple trails connect campgrounds to fishing spots along the Kenai Peninsula. Winter temperatures can drop below 0°F, while summer brings mild 60-70°F days with extended daylight hours, creating distinct camping conditions across seasons.
What to do
Kayaking on glacial lakes: Trail River Campground provides direct access to one of Alaska's most scenic lakes. "The lake is one of the most beautiful views in alaska in my opinion," notes Riley N., who adds that "the day use area was the real show stopper here!"
Wildlife viewing on maintained trails: Multiple interconnecting paths allow hikers to spot diverse wildlife. At Eagle River Campground, Lisa S. reports, "Trails are nearby and fishing opportunities." Another camper advises, "Watch for Moose. Look up every so often because there are also bald eagles around."
Fishing with local guides: For serious anglers, guided fishing excursions provide equipment and local expertise. "Great fishing guides," reports Cathy B. about Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, which offers yurt accommodations for parties up to four people.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds maintain good separation between camping areas. At Eklutna Lake Campground, Vicki S. notes, "The sites are large and well-spaced," though she mentions "not all quite as secluded as I'd like."
Walk-in yurt options: Eagle River Nature Center provides glamping yurts accessible by foot. "Well maintained trails but a walk to the cabin or yurts. Accessible by foot year around," explains Tanya B., who adds they "loved the hikes so much we decided to rent the cabin for my birthday."
Lake access from campsites: Several campgrounds feature direct water access. At Rocky Lake, Samantha M. describes how some sites have "terrific set up" including the ability to "walk down your private path to the lake and enjoy the weekend."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: This region has significant bear activity requiring proper precautions. When glamping near Hope, one camper at Eklutna Lake advises, "This is a great place to see bears! Moose.... Foxes," while another warns, "Don't keep your food out of a secured box or by your tent."
Seasonal fish odors: Some waterfront sites develop strong odors after salmon spawning. At Historic Hope Cafe & Campground, Tanya B. notes, "After salmon spawning season a number of dead fish wash up on shore and rot and early in the autumn it is pretty strong."
Mosquito preparation: Alaska's summer brings significant insect activity. A camper recommends, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Anchorage N KOA Journey (formerly Big Bear Campground) offers dedicated play areas. Courtney H. reports, "The park had helpful and friendly staff, clean bathrooms, a nice laundry facility, and even a playground with a communal pavilion for people to gather round together."
Kid-friendly hiking options: Multiple trails accommodate various skill levels. At Trail River, Sierra S. recalls, "Growing up we always had our annual car camp event here," where they'd organize "kayak races, funny sack races, scavenger hunts and volley ball games."
Swimming areas: Some campgrounds offer designated swimming spots. At Rocky Lake State Recreation Site, Jessica J. notes there's "a small boat launch and swimming area with no lifeguard on duty."
Tips from RVers
Limited site availability: Hope area campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "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 especially if there are bands playing in the area."
Dump station access: Many RVers note the importance of planning waste disposal. Lisa S. at Eagle River Campground points out "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."
Gate closure timing: Some campgrounds restrict late-night access. At Rocky Lake, "There is a curfew of sorts where they lock the entrance and exit gates at 8pm/10pm and open again at 8am."
