Dispersed camping opportunities near Seward, Alaska offer budget-conscious travelers alternatives to established campgrounds. Located approximately 125 miles south of Anchorage, this coastal area features multiple gravel pullouts and designated areas where visitors can camp without facilities. Winter temperatures average between 17°F and 38°F, while summer temperatures typically range from 49°F to 63°F, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season for most visitors.
What to do
Explore Exit Glacier: Visit one of the most accessible glaciers in Alaska, just minutes from free camping areas. According to one camper at Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, "We stayed 4 nights 6/4/23. Very close to Seward activities and Exit Glacier - Harding ice field hikes. Scenery was outstanding with snow covered peaks in all directions."
Watch seaplanes: The free camping area at Moose Pass offers a unique aviation viewing opportunity. A camper notes, "Seaplanes take off from lake during the day - pretty awesome. No onsite services. Seward offers free dump and potable water - near their RV parks."
Hike to alpine lakes: The area offers numerous trails leading to pristine mountain lakes. One backpacker advises about camping near Lost Lake Trailhead, "The Forest service recommends that you camp on Lost Lake at designated campsites. This is bear country and some of the camp sites have bear boxes. There are also pit toilets but always pack your own TP."
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Free camping spots provide convenient bases for exploring the region. A visitor to Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area shared, "Boondocking galore! Beautiful spots right by the river and five minutes from Seward and shopping one way and five minutes from Kenai Fjords NP the other."
Privacy options: Despite being free public areas, many spots offer reasonable separation. One camper explained, "It was a huge area, maybe 5+ acres. Some shrubs around the lot which was nice for privacy."
Cost savings: Free camping provides substantial savings compared to developed campgrounds in the area. A camper at Moose Pass shared, "We stayed for 3 days and thought it was the best so far especially for free."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many free camping areas near Seward require careful navigation. One visitor to Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area cautions, "The entrance comes up quick and has huge rocks blocking part of the road. We blew by it the first time and said no way, but then we pulled over and I ran to see who was camping and surprisingly a bunch of bigger campers etc got back there."
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between locations. A camper reported, "In the spot we were at the cell service was almost non existent. We had one tiny bar for AT&T and nothing for Verizon. On a Saturday in July it wasn't busy and everyone could spread out to have their own area."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations differ between areas. For Alpine regions near Lost Lake, "FIRES ARE PROHIBITED in alpine areas." Always check current fire restrictions before setting up camp.
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Due to limited amenities at free campsites near Seward, pack games and activities. A visitor to Portage Glacier Road recommends bringing wildlife identification guides for children as the areas around Seward provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Safety considerations: Free camping areas lack staff oversight found at established campgrounds. A visitor to Exit Glacier Road noted, "Since it is not an established campsite, there aren't any rules. People were driving and riding ATVs at late hours. Cars/trucks would zoom through the lot."
Weather preparation: Alaska weather changes rapidly, requiring appropriate gear. One camper recommends, "We stayed here over the fourth of July weekend in 2024! The mount marathon race brought a ton of people into town, so the site was full of vehicles. The mountains are incredible, and it's a perfect nook between Seward and Kenai Fjords NP."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many free sites require extra effort for comfortable positioning. An RVer at Exit Glacier Road advises, "Big gravel like space but isn't level so you need to drive slow, but you can find a level spot to camp for the night."
Size considerations: Some free camping areas accommodate larger vehicles better than others. A visitor to Moose Pass notes, "A great open spot for many vehicles, including big rigs. Some spots are tucked into trees for more privacy while others are open for better Starlink and solar."
Access verification: Always confirm your vehicle can access your chosen site. One RVer reported about Exit Glacier Road, "We have small pull behind trailer but had an Airstream and variety of other campers in the area. Entrance is next to a couple of large boulders but is wide enough to get through."
