Jesse P.
Scout
ScoutRiley Creek Campground — Denali National Park
Great location
Good location. Quiet. Near river
Best Campgrounds in Alaska
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Alaska's extensive campground system includes both established facilities and remote wilderness areas, accommodating travelers with diverse camping preferences. From the well-maintained Homer Spit Campground along the Kenai Peninsula coastline to the scenic Denali-adjacent Riley Creek Campground, options range from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV locations. Several parks offer cabin accommodations, including Eklutna Lake and Bird Creek campgrounds within Chugach State Park. Most developed campgrounds provide amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and toilets, while RV-specific areas typically feature electric hookups and dump stations.
The camping season in Alaska generally runs from May through September, with limited winter facilities available at select locations like Riley Creek and Seward City campgrounds. Many sites require reservations, particularly during the peak summer months when daylight extends well into evening hours. Road conditions vary significantly, with some campgrounds requiring high-clearance vehicles for access, particularly after rain or during early season openings. Bear safety is essential throughout Alaska, with proper food storage required at all campgrounds. "Other than not having running showers after a long day of fishing so you can wash off some sand and other dirt off yourself, it is a pretty great place. Very close to the river. A lot of places to fish," noted one visitor about Centennial Park Campground.
Water access represents a significant draw for many Alaska campers, with highly-rated sites available along lakes, rivers, and coastal areas. Mendenhall Lake Campground near Juneau provides glacier views alongside lake access, while Porcupine Campground offers coastal forest camping. Visitors particularly value campgrounds with privacy between sites and natural surroundings. According to reviews, travelers seeking solitude appreciate the secluded nature of campgrounds like Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site, which one camper described as "a beautiful secluded campground with lots of privacy and being near the creek was just the cherry on top." Chugach State Park campgrounds receive consistent praise for their proximity to Anchorage while still offering wilderness experiences, though facilities are typically basic with limited or no hookups.
Best Camping Sites in Alaska (798)
1. Homer Spit Campground
46 ReviewsHomer, AKWebsite+1 (907) 235-8206$50 / night
"Homer Alaska. It is a very small town that gets lots of visitors in the summer months."
"First overnight stop on our Alaska trip and it was incredible. The most beautiful place I have ever camped. We camped beachfront with a tent. Amazing views."
2. Eklutna Lake Campground — Chugach State Park
40 ReviewsChugiak, AKWebsite+1 (907) 345-5014$5 - $100 / night
"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."
"If you get there at the right time, there are a few sites with a view of the lake thru the trees. Requires a very short hike to get lakeside but the view is worth it."
3. Riley Creek Campground — Denali National Park
36 ReviewsHealy, AKWebsite+1 (907) 683-9532"The sites are nicely maintained with nice, edged out tent pad areas. The surrounding trees provide a nice barrier between sites so you don't feel crammed into the campground."
"We were visiting Denali from California and was our first time in Alaska. We were not only blown away by the beauty of Denali, but the campground was stunning as well."
4. Eagle River Campground — Chugach State Park
33 ReviewsEagle River, AKWebsite+1 (907) 694-7982"Multiple trails travel along the campground and the river. Beautiful Alaskan experience right next to Alaska's largest city."
"Bring your fishing pole as you're close to the river. Enjoy what Alaska has to offer!"
5. Seward City Campgrounds
31 ReviewsSeward, AKWebsite+1 (907) 224-4055$10 - $20 / night
"They had last minute room to boondock in an adjacent parking lot, which was also full in August. We stayed 2 nights, the second in an rv site in Resurrection."
"It is so relaxing having your coffee at the oceans edge in the morning. You can see otters and eagles. So much to do and enjoy in Seward. The Sealife center is only a mile away."
6. Bird Creek Campground — Chugach State Park
27 ReviewsIndian, AKWebsite+1 (907) 269-8400"Stayed at Bird Creek for 2 nights while car camping/traveling through Alaska. Very clean faculties, lots of space between sites and countless activities."
"This campground is only a short drive from Anchorage, but far enough so you feel like you are away from the hustle and bustle of town. There are great trails for hiking."
7. Mendenhall Lake Campground
24 ReviewsAuke Bay, AKWebsite+1 (907) 586-8800$20 - $36 / night
"This is a very nice campground set back from Mendenhall lake and the famous Mendenhall Glacier. Bears frequent this area and sometimes wolves too. "
"The proximity to the glacier and the views from around the lake are astounding. Mt McGinnis on the west and Mt Bullard and Thunder Mountain to the East."
8. Byers Lake Campground
17 ReviewsTrapper Creek, AKWebsite+1 (907) 745-3975$80 / night
"We are so glad that we got this advice from our cousins before heading to Alaska!"
"This canoground’s lake has a good supply of trout. Even found a greyling! The back country camp sites are in a remote walking distance."
9. Porcupine Campground
17 ReviewsHope, AKWebsite$23 / night
"We wish we had gotten a better site, but there is plenty of hiking around to see the water and mountains."
"There are two great hikes nearby within driving or walking distance. A perfect weekend getaway from Anchorage! You'll adore this beautiful spot."
10. Wonder Lake Campground — Denali National Park
16 ReviewsDenali National Park and Preserve, AKWebsite+1 (907) 683-2294$16 / night
"Yes, the mosquitoes are bad, but I honestly didn’t find them to be that much worse than elsewhere in Alaska."
"Camping at Wonder Lake in Denali National Park, close by the tallest peak in North America, seemed like the perfect way to end our trip to all 59 national parks. It was even more than we expected."
Recent Camping Photos in Alaska
335 Photos of 798 Alaska Campgrounds
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River Park Campground - May-Su Borough
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Klondike RV Park & Cottages
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Fairbanks / Chena River KOA
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Waugaman Village RV Park
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Girdwood Campground
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Susitna Landing
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Swiftwater Park & Campground
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Willow Creek Resort
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Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground
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Mineral Creek, Valdez, AK
Valerie S.
Glacier View Campground
Recent Reviews in Alaska
1682 Reviews of 798 Alaska Campgrounds
Layne H.
TravelerTundra Lodge and RV Park
Stayed Here 3 Times
We stayed here 3 times in May, June and July of 2026. Not only is this an outstanding RV campground, the campground bar is not to be missed if you enjoy local folks and their stories about the area. We met both locals and fellow travelers at the bar over 2 nights during our 3 night stay at the campground. Even if you do not typically drink or spend time in bars, this is one place you will not regret dropping in.
If you are new to Alaska or "in a hurry to experience Alaska", Tok is the place to spend a few days. Tok IS Alaska, Tok is the quintessential Alaskan town! Rushing through this town will diminish your Alaskan experience and you won't even know it. Our Alaska experience has been greatly enriched by the recommendations and advice we received while slowing down and spending a few days here - much of that enrichment happened at the Tundra Bar. Even if you do not choose the Tundra RV Park for your stay, you are still welcome at the Tundra Bar!
We were so impressed with our campground experience, the Tundra staff and the big rig friendly camp sites that we have decided to amend our 'Alaskan Experience' and spend a few more days in Tok on our return (after time in Valdez, Seward, Homer, Whittier, Denali and Fairbanks - to list just a few) before heading north to Chicken and Dawson City. The Tundra RV park will also receive and hold mail and packages (including Amazon) for you - please be aware that delivery times in Alaska take longer than the lower 48 (next day may mean 5+ days or a month). Contact the Tundra RV Park before having packages delivered.
Jessica R.
GuideLiard River South
Beautiful views - off the highway
Just off the highway and down and old inactive airstrip, this is a beautiful stop for the night. Hardly any road noise. Saw a bear on our way in but nothing at our spot. Mosquitos were in abundance so be prepared.
- MMark L.Guide
Pilot Pond
Decent site near river
You’ll see where people have dump off old, rusty cars, etc. One site on the river, one side on the access road
- Mckenzie S.Scout
roadside camping spot
Group Staying Long Term
Decent little area but there’s a group that looks like they’re staying long term. Seemed to be kind but felt a little intrusive to try and stay in the same spot.
- LLaura C.Scout
Moose Crossing RV & Food Truck Park
Adorable
The camp host was so kind and helped us get situated. It’s a quaint and beautiful site.
- KKristina M.Traveler
Seward Military Resort
Reliable location with reliable facilities
We stayed here for 1 night and 2 days in a camper van. No information on the website about not being allowed to car camp, so we booked a tent site ($25/night). Upon arrival, we were informed this wasn’t allowed so we had to upgrade to an RV site ($50/night). It would’ve been nice to know this ahead of time, as we would’ve just camped somewhere else for free and paid for showers. Otherwise, solid location with minimal road noise. The showers were nice and the area was calm. Fire pits are communal, not per campsite. RV sites are just a parking lot with picnic tables between. This is basically just a gated rest stop, so it comes with peace of mind.
- DDouglas S.
RangerOceanside RV Park
A clean basic RV camp right next to the ocean
A full hookup but basic RV camp right next to the ocean at Haines alaska. Please see photos for more details.
- Karl W.Traveler
Pinochle Trail Campground
New with a VIEW
New campground only in their second season. Most work has been done on creating areas with fantastic view of Matanuska Glacier.
Guide to Alaska
Camping in Alaska offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature like never before. From stunning mountains to serene lakes, there’s something for everyone, but it’s important to know what to expect.
What to do
- Hiking: Many campgrounds, like Wonder Lake Campground — Denali National Park, offer access to incredible trails. One camper mentioned, “It has great fishing and hiking and just out of this world.”
- Wildlife Watching: Campers often spot wildlife. One review from Savage River Campground — Denali National Park noted, “As soon as we get there we spot caribou right at the river.”
- Fishing and Canoeing: At places like South Rolly Lake Campground, you can enjoy canoe trails and fishing. A review stated, “There are canoe and kayak rentals and the dock is great for fishing or swimming!”
What campers like
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views. One camper at Byers Lake Campground said, “Some of the best views of the tallest mountain in North America can be seen from hiking within Denali State Park.”
- Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A review from Nenana RV Park & Campground highlighted, “The shower house was very clean with a new shower mat provided for each shower.”
- Friendly Hosts: Campers appreciate the hospitality. One review from King Mountain State Rec Area noted, “The host was nice and there to greet us.”
What you should know
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs. A camper at Wonder Lake Campground warned, “The mosquitoes are INSANE. Just unreal.”
- Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly. A review from Riley Creek Campground mentioned, “The weather is quite variable. We had sunny days with AMAZING mountain views and driving rain downpours.”
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A camper at Teklanika River Campground pointed out, “None of the campsites offered electrical hookups, so bring your solar panels.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities for kids. One review from Nenana RV Park & Campground mentioned, “My kids enjoyed the park across the road and had mini golf and a Rhoades car available for use.”
- Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities lined up. A camper at South Rolly Lake Campground said, “There are tons of hiking trails accessible from the campground.”
- Pack for Comfort: Bring items to keep everyone comfortable. A review from K’esugi Ken Campground noted, “This place was so clean and well taken care of.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Matanuska River Park Campground mentioned, “Some caution needs to be exercised when driving. Trees made Starlink coverage a bit spotty.”
- Book in Advance: Popular spots fill up quickly. A review from K’esugi Ken Campground advised, “You have to book these sites well in advance.”
- Utilize Dump Stations: Make use of facilities like dump stations. A camper at Matanuska River Park Campground noted, “Water station and sani-dump usage included.”
Camping in Alaska can be an unforgettable experience if you’re prepared and know what to expect!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any campgrounds in Alaska with full hookups for RVs?
Are there any campgrounds in Alaska with full hookups for RVs?
Yes, Alaska has several RV-friendly campgrounds with full hookups. Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground offers full RV hookups right off the highway, making it convenient for travelers. The Springer RV Park & Campground provides full hookup sites with access to amenities like a community fire pit and nearby attractions. For those needing military access, Seward Military Resort offers various accommodation options including RV sites. Many Alaska RV parks are strategically located near popular attractions, though availability is typically seasonal with most operating from May through September. Reservations are strongly recommended during peak summer months when Alaska's camping spots fill quickly.
What are the best camping spots in Alaska for tent camping?
What are the best camping spots in Alaska for tent camping?
Alaska offers exceptional tent camping experiences with scenic views and natural settings. Donnelly Creek State Rec Area provides spacious sites perfect for multiple tents, complete with fire rings and picnic tables. For a more remote experience, Deadman Lake Campground offers lakeside sites with a secluded feel, situated within the Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge. Many tent campers also enjoy dispersed camping along Gold Creek, where established sites often feature rock fire rings. When tent camping in Alaska, come prepared for weather changes and insects - bug shelters are highly recommended, especially in mid-August when gnats can be prevalent.
What are the state-operated campgrounds in Alaska like?
What are the state-operated campgrounds in Alaska like?
Alaska's state-operated campgrounds offer well-maintained facilities in spectacular natural settings. Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site features clean facilities, beautiful lakefront views, and active wildlife like beavers. Tangle Lakes Campground provides clean sites, hiking trails, and a boat launch, though bathrooms may be a walk from some sites. State campgrounds typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Most operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though some accept reservations. Fees are generally reasonable, ranging from $10-25 per night depending on amenities. While most lack hookups, they compensate with scenic locations and wilderness access. State campgrounds are typically open from May through September, weather permitting.
When is the best time of year to go camping in Alaska?
When is the best time of year to go camping in Alaska?
The prime camping season in Alaska runs from late May through early September, with mid-June to mid-August offering the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours. Centennial Park & Campground and other Kenai Peninsula locations are excellent in August when salmon are running. Signal Creek Campground near Ward Lake is ideal in summer when trails are accessible and wildlife viewing opportunities abound. Late August brings fewer insects but cooler temperatures and shorter days. May and September offer less crowded campgrounds but prepare for cooler weather and potential snow at higher elevations. Winter camping is possible for experienced adventurers but requires specialized gear and knowledge of extreme cold weather survival techniques.
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