Tent campers near Elmendorf Air Force Base have access to secluded backcountry sites across Chugach State Park's 495,000 acres of wilderness terrain. At elevations ranging from sea level to over 5,000 feet, camping options vary dramatically with the seasons. Winter conditions often persist at higher elevations until late May, with mosquitoes becoming prevalent throughout the region from June through August.
What to do
Glacier viewing and hiking: Spencer Whistle Stop features access to Spencer Glacier and is reachable only by train. As one visitor notes, "There are two group campsites that must be reserved through the Alaska Railroad 800.544.0552" with amenities including "clean restroom facilities, bear proof food storage, picnic tables, and fire ring." The whistle stop costs $132 per person for transportation.
Wildlife watching: Eagle River Nature Center (public use cabins/yurts) provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities along maintained hiking trails. According to a camper, the area has "well maintained trails but a walk to the cabin or yurts. Accessible by foot year around. No horses or bikes allowed on trails."
Backcountry exploration: Chugach Backcountry Camping offers remote tent camping experiences for self-sufficient adventurers. A visitor explains, "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."
What campers like
Solitude and quiet settings: Coeur D'Alene Campground offers walk-in tent sites that maintain privacy while remaining accessible. A camper reports, "The deep you go the less bugs. This may have the nicest wood panels ever stuck to a plastic port a potty. The bugs are pretty heavy right next to the river but deep in the woods are very few."
Easy access to backcountry: Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites provides relatively accessible tent camping options. According to one review, "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."
Natural soundscapes: Several campgrounds feature streams or natural features that enhance the camping experience. At Coeur D'Alene Campground, campers report that "Great place for exploring. Walk in campsites are very close and have bear proof food storage."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bear-resistant food containers are mandatory throughout the region. All food must be stored properly, and campers should maintain clean campsites to avoid attracting wildlife.
Transportation considerations: Spencer Glacier Whistle Stop Group Campground requires coordination with the Alaska Railroad for access. Train service is seasonal, operating "July 3rd - September 7th" according to recent visitor information.
Temperature variations: Alpine camping locations experience significant temperature drops at night. At Coeur D'Alene Campground, one camper notes the "campsite is at quite an elevation so is chilly at night and early morning even in the summer."
Self-sufficiency requirements: Most backcountry sites require bringing all necessary supplies. A camper at Chugach Backcountry Camping emphasizes, "you need to bring all of your supplies with you, water, food, toiletries."
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: For families with children, locations with shorter access trails work best. Rabbit Lake Primitive Campsites offers an alternative approach for families as one visitor suggests, "I suggest parking at the rainbow trail head right down the way to the left that connects with multiple trails."
Consider cabin options: Eklutna Lake Public Use Cabins provide more comfortable shelter for families with young children. Reservations are required and should be made well in advance, especially for summer weekends and holidays.
Plan for variable weather: Even in summer months, temperatures can drop significantly at night in higher elevation campgrounds. Pack warm clothing and rain gear regardless of the forecast.
Tips from RVers
Road restrictions: Most primitive camping areas near Elmendorf AFB are not suitable for RVs. At Hope Alaska Backcountry Sites, a reviewer specifically warns that "RVs are not recommended on this road."
Consider ferry alternatives: For RV owners seeking unique experiences, the Alaska Marine Highway offers unusual camping opportunities. A visitor describes, "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 in one of the solariums or observation decks."
Designated RV campgrounds: Standard RV hookups are extremely limited among primitive camping options near the base. Most RV camping requires traveling to established campgrounds with dedicated facilities farther from wilderness areas.
