Best Tent Camping near Palmer, AK
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Best Tent Sites Near Palmer, Alaska (2)
1. Eagle River Nature Center (public use cabins/yurts)
1 Review•31 Photos•10 SavesAnchorage, Alaska- Pets
- Fires
- Reservable
- Tents
- Cabins
- Yurts
$85 / night
Recent Tent Reviews near Palmer, Alaska
290 Reviews of 2 Palmer Campgrounds
Melissa W.
Legend
Matanuska Lake State Recreation Area
Excellent tent spots
I needed a place to stay between Anchorage and Glen Allen. I was shocked this campground wasn't in Dyrt (found it on google). We actually ended up staying here two separate times- on our way North east and coming back South West. This State Rec Area is extremely clean. It's nice that there are tent sites separated from their RV sites (nothing worse than being in a tent and stuck hearing an RV's generator or TV all night). The RV lot is basically a parking lot but without many other options it would probably do the trick for an RV. The tent sites in the back are great. They are huge and have privacy between them. There's a vault toilet which is kept clean. No services or amenities but it's not far to the town of palmer. Despite being right off the state route, it stays pretty quiet from the road traffic because of all the trees. There's a pay station to pay when you arrive and pick your site. This was perfect in the shoulder season and in-between cities. I apologize I didn't get any campground pictures to post!
Tanya B.Legend
Riverside Park City Park
Would not be my first choice
This is an option if everywhere else is full. There is a sewage dump for $10 so that is a plus. RV sites and tent sites available.
RV spots are not very level so choose wisely.
- Tanya B.Legend
Kepler Lake Campground
Closing July 6, 2020 for the season
Due to construction this campground is closing for the 2020 season. Reservations are required 2 weeks in advance. (907) 240-9797 or reservations@greatholidaycampgrounds.com Gates close you in from 8 am - 8 pm. Rentals for canoes and paddle boards.
With only 10 sites they fill up quickly.
RV and tent camping sites.
Dan N.
Ranger
Eklutna - Chugach State Park
Beluga whales
Perfect place to camp if you're looking for belugas! We rented a kayak nearby and explored the bay. Surreal. The camp sites all had amazing views and the tent sites were forested and pretty private. Lots of locals camp here and offered insider tips about where to see wildlife, eat, etc.
- Tanya B.Legend
Eagle River Nature Center (public use cabins/yurts)
Worth the walk in
Well maintained trails but a walk to the cabin or yurts. Accessible by foot year around. No horses or bikes allowed on trails. Tent camping along the Crow Creek Pass Trail.
Many choices for length of hikes depending on which loop you choose. This is bear county so bring your bear bells. Loved the hikes so much we decided to rent the cabin for my birthday.
Karen D.
Guide
Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park
Lovely campground
This campground has nice size sites for RV's. If you are tent camping (I am), there's one pull in to 3 sites so you are close to strangers if your friends don't come. The toilets are clean but smell awful. One can also hear quite a bit of road noise and military aircraft all day because the campground is near both. Nice quick stop. $20 a site per day.
- Tanya B.Legend
Girdwood Campground
Watch the reviews
Some of the reviews are not for this campground. These are walk in tent sites. There are no spots for RVs or trailers. Firewood is a fun place and not too far from Anchorage.
Make sure if you are coming from Anchorage you stop off at Potters Marsh and check out the boardwalk. So many hiking trails no matter what way you go.
- Shadara W.Legend
Eklutna - Chugach State Park
Gorgeous any time of year
Trails to hike or play on the lake! This campground is situated with access to Eklunta Lake and boy is that perfect. Tons of campsites to choose from both double, single and handicapped. First come, first served. Fire rings, tables, restrooms, firewood for purchase ($15) and camp host. Two sets of walk in tent sites with food lockers also available. Well water available too. Come spend a weekend exploring Eklunta Lake!
Taylor B.
Traveler
Black Spruce Campground
Lots of fun
I live on base and recently purchased a pop up. Took a maiden voyage here to feel out the beast and work out the kinks. Kids had a great time. All sites were back in other than the tent sites. Walking distance from commissary, bx, and shoppette but still felt like wilderness. Really had a good weekend and would recommend to anyone with base access. Will go again
- Shadara W.Legend
Centennial Camper Park
All you hear is highway
All you can hear is Highway. This Campground may be considered the better of the three main choices for Anchorage however after asking around with my Anchorage friends I've heard that the homeless over takes this campground at night. After driving through the campground I did notice several questionable tent sites and also several questionable run-down RVs that looked as though they had been there for quite a while.
- Shadara W.Legend
King Mountain State Rec Area
Too Small and Overgrown
We drove through King Mountain State Recreation Park in order to get the lay of the land for future camping. We have a 28-foot camper. There were only about three spots worth a darn that would have fit us. This is more of a tent camping only Campground. The camp host was a young guy who could of used a shower and the sites were overgrown and tight some not even having room to park a car although map states they could. We wouldn't choose to stay here as there are prettier campgrounds with more to do.
Hannah W.Legend
Porcupine Campground
Gorgeous views
We came here in mid-May and everything was beautiful and green. I've read this campground can be busy but it was not at this time. Everything was well taken care of and you could tell the hosts make sure everything is in order. Each site has parking, fire rings, and picnic tables (excluding some tent sites). The picnic tables are large and have spots for someone in a wheelchair. The views of Turnagain Arm are stunning! Sites cost $9.
Megan W.TravelerBlack Spruce Campground
FamCamp
Open year round with 50/30/20amp sites (seasonal water hook up as well) and tent sites, this small campground is a great place while waiting for a house or on your way out. The bathhouse is super clean, there's dumpsters close by, spaces are decently sized with a picnic table and charcoal grill set up, and trees offer some privacy. There's a playground for the kids, a bike path that can be taken to the shopette or one of the neighborhood playgrounds. Close to the hospital, PX/commissary, and the Muldoon gate.
Laura H.RangerPorcupine Campground
Perfect family friendly campsite
This campsite fills up fast! We happened to get the last available tent campsite right on the water and it was GORGEOUS! This is the more peaceful campground in Hope (there's another one in town that seems more fun but more noisy too). They have large picnic tables, one spot seemed handicap accessible even. There was a nice fire pit that helped for us novice fire makers. The camp hosts were super helpful and informative. There are two great hikes nearby within driving or walking distance. A perfect weekend getaway from Anchorage! You'll adore this beautiful spot.
- Tanya B.Legend
Gold Creek Gold Mine
Camp anywhere you can find
This is the best camping in Alaska. Just find a spot big enough for your rig it tent and pull off. There are many regularly used sites that have rock fire rings already made. Always make sure you are not in a drive way and that there are no POSTED signs to keep off property. Bug shelters highly recommended because depending on the year it’s mosquitoes, flies, or bees.
Aimee H.Ranger
Bird Creek Campground - Chugach State Park
Bird Creek Cabin AK
Bird Creek camp/ RV/ Cabin site is a beautiful 25 minute journey south of Anchorage. Far enough away but close enough to town if you feel the need to get back to the city.
We rented a cabin 95$ a night and took aprox 12 young ladies in the chilly month of November! Daring, I know! But state restrooms made sharing a bathroom easy :)
there is a small wood stove and wood supplied for each cabin which was amazing! A lil kitchen area is built in for your food prep pleasure- must bring stoves and water. No electricity so bring your choice of lighting. Also I recommend headlamps for winter months as bathrooms are a small treck from the secluded wooded cabins.
Bunks are built in and a loft makes for plenty of room.
There was a beautiful table with a map in the top- pretty awesome!
There is a walking trail and it's close to the inlet for beluga whale watching and if your lucky a bore tide!
Rv sites and tents sites available as well- plus table and fire pits at each site.
Timothy W.Guide
Matanuska River Park Campground
Great City Park RV & Tent in Palmer
This is a wonderful campground in the town of Palmer. We have a 26’ travel trailer and are connected to 30 amp electrical. Sites have plenty of trees and grass. Public rest rooms with showers.
40 electric sites 47 tent
- Tanya B.Legend
Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground
If you are looking for a central RV park this is the place
Right off the Highway this RV park is not bad. Although I prefer my camping more rural. If you are visiting and just want to start one way out of Anchorage this could be a choice for you. With everything from cabins, to full RV hook ups, to dry RV camping, and lakeside tent spots this is a good option for a first stop on a great Alaska adventure. 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. Spaces are close to each other and I would not recommend spending my entire camping trip there, but they are a good option if you need something close. Cell Service: Yes Internet: Yes Distance from Anchorage: Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 45 miles
Khursten C.Traveler
The Springer RV Park & Campground
Beautiful Views, Clean Grounds
We visited here for two nights with our children in our tow-behind trailer. There wasn't a lot to do for the kids, but we were able to enjoy the grassy area, make s'mores in the community fire pit, take a nice walk next to the golf course nearby, and make laps around the campsite's driveway. They otherwise played card games, read books, and made "nature recipes". It was quiet except for birds rising with the sun and airplanes landing at the nearby airport. The kids loved watching the planes land. It was nice having access to the toilets for when we had more than one person needing it at the same time. Another great part was the very good quality water, electric, and sewer hookups! The entire grounds was very well maintained, impeccably clean, and provided a very nice place to enjoy the breathtaking mountain views that rural Palmer, Alaska has to offer! Unfortunately I did not get enough photos!
- Shadara W.Legend
Mountain View RV Park
Long Term Mountain Views
Good Sam member, offers full hookups with long term availability, propane, showers, recycling and awesome mountain views. Off the beaten path in between Butte and Palmer, this was a nice find. The sites are parking lot gravel style but very clean and well kept.
- Aimee H.Ranger
Centennial Camper Park
Centennial camping!!
Centennial camp ground in Anchorage Alaska was a FAB SURPRISE!! Hidden, secret, clean, and big tent spots!
- Tanya B.Legend
Road camping Willow-Fishook Road
If it says Stay Out or Posted DO NOT camp
The Palmer-Fishhook road will take you to the east entrance of Hatcher Pass and connects with the Willow-Fishhook road. Once you leave Hatcher pass going towards Willow there are tons of options for roadside camping. There is everything from riverside camping to wooded areas. Small spots for a camper van or larger spots that can house a number of RVs towing ATVs. Watch for posted signs but if there are no postings then make it yours. The drive is AMAZING!!
Cell Service: spotty Internet: spotty 2020 Cost: Free Distance from Anchorage: 83 miles Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 4-7 bring bug dope
- Tanya B.Legend
Hatcher Pass – Government Peak
The drive never disappoints
This very small campground is only open in the summer months and has eight spots. There is no cell service out here but the drive and scenery is some of the best Alaska has to offer. Who am I kidding that can be said for just about any of the DNR sites. Sites are along side the Little Su River and are primitive.
These are not large RV sites but if you have a tent or smaller vehicle this is a definite place to check out. Restroom are well maintained.
Cell Service: no Internet: no 2020 Cost: $15 per site Distance from Anchorage: 57 miles Best sites: any if you can find one Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 5
Shari G.LegendEklutna - Chugach State Park
Peaceful Retreat Near Anchorage
This place is a secret wonder, just off the Glenn highway north of Anchorage. The autumn color was spectacular here! It was raining and cold in early September, but simply gorgeous.
The first-come, first served sites are on the smaller side and very wooded; with lots of space in between sites, but not a lot of open canopy. This was a bit of challenge for our rooftop solar, but we used portable solar suitcase on an extension cord to capture some sunlight.
The bathrooms are simple, but clean, vault toilets. Water is available at spigots located throughout the campground loop. The lake offers lots of stunning recreation opportunities for flat water paddling and fishing -- careful, the lake can kick up some pretty mean chop during windy afternoons.
Hiking on the Twin Peak trailhead is just around the corner, and cycling along the main road could be a great way to get some hill climbing exercise, as it’s a steep road up to the lake from the Glenn. If you are visiting the Musk Ox Farm in Palmer, this is a great close by campground (about 30 miles away).
We loved that this campground had the feeling of a remote, wilderness campground but all within an hour’s drive of Anchorage. There is one local tourist ice cream shop just a few miles back down the road, which offers food, showers, and laundry. It is only open during the summer months. Further afield the suburban area around the interchange between the Glenn and Parks Highways has all of the services campers need about 30 minutes to the north of the campground.
Staci J.GuideGold Creek Gold Mine
Beautiful Area, but... the flies!
We were hard pressed to find a camping spot in Girdwood, but we found this one to have nice scenery and uncrowded. There were some pretty small sites and we were lucky to find one suitable for an 8 person tent. It sites in a really beautiful spot near the Crow Creek Gold Mine. Being from Alaska, we are used to mosquitos and flies, but our experience here was quite traumatic. We set up after the sun started setting and were up in the morning before the sun rose over the mountains. It was all well and good until the sun was shining bright and the temperature rose. As soon as it got warm, an insane amount of flies came out. We are not talking 10-15, we are talking 50-75 each on my husband and I. We couldn't not pack up fast enough! As we packed up, the kids stood there smacking flies off of us and each other. I am not sure if the insane amount of flies are just from the warm winters and really warm summers or what. It might be worth staying here again if we check the fly situation first.
- hheather T.Guide
Eagle River Campground - Chugach State Park
Chugach State Park
I have lived in Alaska almost 3 years and still not get over the beauty of this state. Chugach State Park is no different. If you have never been to Alaska and live to hike or camp, you need to plan a trip up here!
Brad H.TravelerEagle River Campground - Chugach State Park
Nice piece of Alaska
Great spot to stay for a nite or two. Bring your fishing pole as you're close to the river. Enjoy what Alaska has to offer!
Guide to Palmer
Tent camping near Palmer, Alaska offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the region. With a variety of campgrounds available, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to set up their tents and enjoy the great outdoors.
Tips for tent camping near Palmer
- For a memorable experience, consider staying at the Eagle River Nature Center (public use cabins/yurts), where well-maintained trails lead to beautiful hiking opportunities, but be prepared for a walk to your campsite.
Tent campers appreciate these amenities
- The Rabbit Lake Primitive Campsites offer a free camping experience with the freedom to enjoy campfires, although you'll need to bring your own firewood and be ready for a more rustic setup without amenities like toilets or drinking water.
Tent campers like these nearby activities
- At the Eagle River Nature Center (public use cabins/yurts), you can explore various hiking trails that cater to different skill levels, making it a great spot for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Palmer, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Palmer, AK is Eagle River Nature Center (public use cabins/yurts) with a 5-star rating from 1 review.
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