Camping near Palmer, Alaska, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to hike, fish, or just relax in nature, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.
What to do
- Hiking: Explore the trails around Eklutna - Chugach State Park. One reviewer mentioned, "Hiking on the Twin Peak trailhead is just around the corner," making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Fishing: The lakes in the area are perfect for fishing. A camper at South Rolly Lake Campground said, "The campground is great if you like fishing or canoeing."
- Canoeing: If you enjoy paddling, check out Finger Lake State Rec Area. One visitor noted, "7 miles of canoe trails, a swimming beach, and nice campsites make this a weekend getaway!"
What campers like
- Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for King Mountain State Rec Area highlights, "This is a very nice and quiet campground with amazing views."
- Wildlife: Many campers appreciate the chance to see local wildlife. One camper at Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park mentioned, "We also had a moose and calf hanging around."
- Clean facilities: Clean bathrooms are a big plus. A visitor at Matanuska River Park Campground said, "The toilets are clean but smell awful," indicating that while they may not be perfect, they are maintained.
What you should know
- Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Nancy Lake State Recreation Site, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A camper noted, "This is not a motorized sport lake... you can paddle out without worrying about other people's wakes."
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. A review for Centennial Camper Park mentioned, "The mosquito problem... proper maintenance is a necessity."
- First-come, first-served sites: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A camper at Finger Lake State Rec Area advised, "I would try to show up closer to noon after people are leaving those sites."
Tips for camping with families
- Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with easy access to water and trails. One parent at South Rolly Lake Campground said, "If you have kids, bring their bikes!"
- Safety: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at Nancy Lake State Recreation Site mentioned, "This is a great spot to take your younger kids to teach them the basics."
- Pack snacks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. A visitor at Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park enjoyed a local ice cream shop nearby, perfect for a treat after a day of exploring.
Tips from RVers
- Space considerations: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A reviewer at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground noted, "The only bad we could think of was spots are close together."
- Check for hookups: Make sure to confirm if your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A camper at Matanuska River Park Campground mentioned, "There are also some sites with electricity."
- Plan for trash disposal: Some campgrounds require you to take your trash to a designated area. A visitor at Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park found the dumpster location a bit inconvenient.
Camping near Palmer, Alaska, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for families and outdoor lovers alike.
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