Cabin accommodations at Chugach State Park provide rustic lodging options within 25-60 minutes of Anchorage. Located in the mountainous terrain of southcentral Alaska, the cabins sit at elevations between 200-1,500 feet with temperatures ranging from 30°F in spring/fall to 65°F during summer months. Most public use cabins remain accessible year-round though winter stays require additional preparation.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Crow Pass Cabin in Girdwood connects to extensive trail systems. "Crow Pass is.. um.. AHHHMAZIIINNNNGGG!! All the shows you see on t.v that look like 'wild Alaska'.. this is it!!" notes a visitor to Crow Pass Cabin.
Wildlife viewing: Search for native Alaskan species around cabin areas. A camper at Eklutna Lake Campground reports, "This is a great place to see bears! Moose.... Foxes. The waters are clear and the landscape is so lush."
Water activities: Many cabins provide lake or river access for summer recreation. "Kayaking on the Lake is great fun," mentions one Eklutna Lake visitor, who adds that "Glacier-fed, the water is COLD, but my dogs jumped right in anyway."
What campers like
Private cabin settings: The wooded surroundings create secluded experiences. As one camper at Bird Creek Campground notes, "Bird Creek campground has 22 sites and 2 public use cabins. There's bathrooms but no showers. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table and there are trails within walking distance of your campsite."
Year-round access: Some cabins remain available through winter months. According to an Eagle River Nature Center visitor, the cabins and yurts are "Accessible by foot year around. No horses or bikes allowed on trails."
Proximity to Anchorage: Many cabin options require minimal travel time from the city. One camper states, "Campsites are pretty spaced. You get a picnic table and a fire ring for 20 bucks a night. Yes, there is road noise but that does calm down at night. Pit toilets around, clean and stocked."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Book cabins well in advance, especially for summer stays. At Eagle River Nature Center, visitors note cabins are "Worth the walk in. Well maintained trails but a walk to the cabin or yurts."
Limited amenities: Most cabins lack running water and electricity. "No water, so bring some. Cellphone signal (t-mobile) and Internet pretty good," advises one Bird Creek camper.
Wildlife safety: Bear and moose encounters are common near cabins. "This is bear county so bring your bear bells," warns an Eagle River Nature Center visitor, while another camper recommends, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Cabin sleeping arrangements: Most public use cabins feature bunk beds and loft spaces. "Bunks are built in and a loft makes for plenty of room," reports a visitor to Bird Creek.
Accessible activities: Choose cabins with nearby beginner-friendly trails. At Eagle River Campground, "Multiple trails travel along the campground and the river. Beautiful Alaskan experience right next to Alaska's largest city."
Noise considerations: Some cabin sites experience road or train noise. A Bird Creek visitor mentions, "Train does run by at 6 am so it makes a great alarm clock. Quiet time ends at 6 am."
Tips from RVers
Winter preparedness: When staying at cabins during colder months, bring appropriate gear. At Fox Creek Cabin, visitors recommend preparing for activities that "make everything worth your wild" during winter months.
Supplies and provisions: Stock up in Anchorage before heading to cabin sites. "You can pack ultra light and do this trail in one day.. but whats the rush," advises a Crow Pass visitor who recommends bringing "water filter, tent, food, first aid, blister pads, rain gear and bear spray."
Site selection: Choose cabin locations based on your activity preferences. For those wanting biking options, "Situated right along Bird Creek bike path this is a great place to stay if you love to ride your bike. Whale watching and fishing are also two things to help pass the time."
