Palmer RV parks offer a unique camping experience in the heart of the Matanuska Valley, surrounded by mountain ranges rising 6,000+ feet above the valley floor. Located 42 miles northeast of Anchorage at an elevation of 233 feet, Palmer's camping season typically runs from mid-May through September, though several parks remain open year-round for winter visitors. Average summer temperatures range from 50-70°F, with occasional rainfall requiring proper rain gear.
What to do
Fishing at Matanuska Lake: Access the lake directly from Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground, where anglers can catch rainbow trout. "There is also a dock on the lake to catch some rainbows!" notes Fred S., who appreciated the convenient fishing access.
Airport watching: The Springer RV Park & Campground offers unique entertainment. "The kids loved watching the planes land," writes Khursten C., mentioning it's "quiet except for birds rising with the sun and airplanes landing at the nearby airport."
Basketball and river activities: Susitna Landing Boat Launch & Campground provides recreational amenities beyond typical RV parks. Alex notes, "Great picnic area and even has basketball courts. We got a spot right in front of the river and it was Ana amazing awakening."
Paddling options: Multiple watercraft rentals available at certain parks. Jessica J. mentions, "There are kayaks, canoes, & paddle boats for rent" at Forget Me Not RV Park, which features a man-made beach on a pond.
What campers like
Laundry amenities: Exceptional laundry facilities at some Palmer area RV parks. MickandKarla W. found The Springer RV Park & Campground offers "two washers and two dryers, $5 per load (pay at the office), and they provided soap and dryer sheets—easily the best laundry deal we've seen to date."
Centralized location: Proximity to local attractions makes Palmer RV parks convenient bases. Tanya B. notes, "Because of it's proximity to Anchorage, Wasilla, and Palmer you are not far from anything. There is good cell and internet service here as well and stores to get everything you need."
On-site dining: Unique food options at select RV parks near Palmer. Erik J. specifically mentions Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground's surprising culinary offerings: "The on site restaurant is a gem. The Thai food was REALLY good. So good that we'd go back just for the food!"
Community spaces: Shared gathering areas enhance the camping experience. Courtney H. appreciated Anchorage N KOA Journey for its "playground with a communal pavilion for people to gather round together."
What you should know
Winter availability: Several RV parks remain open year-round, unusual for Alaska. Bob W. mentions, "I have been camping at this campground for many years and is one of my favorite places to camp!" regarding Susitna Landing, which maintains winter accessibility.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some RV parks in the Palmer area. Jessica J. notes about Forget Me Not RV Park: "You do hear noise from the Highway and it looks like there are some long term residents that were running their generators consistently."
Site spacing varies: Site dimensions and proximity differ between parks. MickandKarla W. observed at The Springer: "The sites were very close together, with only a slender strip of grass and a picnic table between them," while noting "the back-in sites offered better spacing and mountain views."
Pet restrictions: Mountain View RV Park and other facilities have specific pet policies. Murray G. cautions, "Don't plan on playing fetch with your dog. They will enforce the leash rule within seconds."
Tips for camping with families
Budget-friendly options: Family-friendly pricing at some Palmer area campgrounds. Tanya B. notes about Susitna Landing: "With an $8 WHEELBARROW of wood you are sure to keep that campfire going," adding that "The prices are good so if you make your way here its is worth a stay."
Kid-focused amenities: Look for RV parks with dedicated children's features. Shannon B. recommends Forget Me Not RV Park, saying "The location is awesome, the owners are so friendly and helpful, and the amenities are great."
Safety considerations: Some campgrounds offer family-safe locations away from water hazards. Tanya B. points out that at Susitna Landing "There are a number of sites along the rivers edge or if you have little ones there are 26 spots far enough form the water you can ease your worries."
Playground access: Several RV parks feature play areas. Shadara W. describes Anchorage N KOA Journey as having a "Pavillion with fire pit, two grills si you dont have to unpack yours, and hammocks to laze away the day...playground for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Consider utility locations when selecting sites. Daniel W. advises about Fox Run: "The hookups are on the opposite side if you back in. It is not an issue if you bring an extra extension cord."
Site length planning: Verify RV site dimensions match your needs. At Pinnacle Mt RV Park, Joe C. found it "by far the best place to stop" for quick overnight stays, though space may be limited for larger rigs.
Pad surface quality: Most Palmer RV parks have gravel pads. Tanya B. describes Mountain View RV Park: "The sites are parking lot gravel style but very clean and well kept."
Extension cords needed: Some sites require additional power cords. Daniel W. notes about Fox Run: "The hookups are on the opposite side if you back in. It is not an issue if you bring an extra extension cord."
