Camping options near Sutton, Alaska range from rustic tent sites to full-service RV accommodations. Located between the Talkeetna Mountains and the Chugach Range at approximately 450 feet elevation, this area experiences mild summers with temperatures averaging 50-70°F. Winter camping opportunities are limited but available at select year-round facilities where temperatures can drop well below freezing.
What to Do
Fishing excursions: Montana Creek Campground offers direct access to prime fishing spots. "This is a great place to stop and fish and look for wildlife. Amazing views, trees, and FISH," notes Brad B., who recommends bringing your own gear.
Ice fishing adventures: At Finger Lake State Recreation Site, winter visitors can try their hand at ice fishing. "My friend and I went here this past winter to do some ice fishing for the first. It was amazing. The views of the mountains were beautiful and the fish were biting every 5 seconds," writes Jonathan V.
Canoeing trail system: The canoe network at Finger Lake spans 7 miles through connected waterways. Shadara W. confirms, "7 miles of canoe trails, a swimming beach, and nice campsites make this a weekend getaway! Two large group sites, 24 tent sites and 8 rv sites."
Wildlife viewing: Look for bears and moose at Eklutna Lake Campground. According to Carly S., "This is a great place to see bears! Moose.... Foxes. The waters are clear and the landscape is so lush. There are a ton of flies though in the summer."
What Campers Like
Spacious campsites: King Mountain State Rec Area offers sites with riverside views. Michael V. reports, "This is a very nice and quiet campground with amazing views. This is a pretty primitive campground, so don't expect much for amenities."
Year-round options: Several campgrounds near Sutton remain open through winter for yurt camping and cold-weather activities. Willow Creek Resort accommodates winter visitors, with Randy M. noting, "This campground is popular with rafters and fishermen who like to drive upstream and float back to the campground."
Tent-friendly terrain: For tent campers seeking level, comfortable sites, South Rolly Lake Campground delivers. "The tent spots are large, level, and have nice and lush grass. The lake is just a short walk from the campgrounds and has a nice spot to fish from the shore with little ones," says Staci J.
Clean facilities: Matanuska Lake State Recreation Area maintains well-kept grounds. Melissa W. observes, "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)."
What You Should Know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds near Sutton require advance booking, especially for yurts. At South Rolly Lake Campground, Christy H. advises, "This is a family favorite. We enjoy the beautiful lake, hiking trails and just the peace and quiet the campground has to offer."
Seasonal availability: Many facilities operate from May through September, with limited yurt camping options in Sutton during winter months. According to Shadara W., "Canoe trails on Nancy Lake to keep you nice and busy all weekend long. Tons of hiking, camp host, firewood for sale $8 or 2 for $15."
Insect preparation: Come prepared for mosquitoes, especially near water. Carly S. warns, "Mosquitos are aggressive at night" at Eklutna Lake Campground, while Sierra D. calls Willow Creek Resort "Mosquito City," stating, "the mosquitos were the worst we witnessed in all of Alaska."
Bear safety: Store food properly as bears are common. Vicki S. from Eagle River Campground recommends, "Unlike some other campgrounds in the area, you are able to gather/chop dead fall wood for your campfire."
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly activities: Rocky Lake State Recreation Site provides direct lake access ideal for families. "This would be a great spot if you're not looking to explore but to just relax on the lake. If it's a rainy day you could drive into wasilla and make a fun day out of it," suggests Samantha M.
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Willow Creek Resort, Valeria G. reports, "Family friendly place, staff is super friendly and helpful. I did not expect the place to be that good! Our kiddos loved the playground and playing in the sand."
Easy first-time camping: For families new to yurt camping in Sutton, certain campgrounds offer more convenient facilities. Tanya B. recommends Finger Lake: "Great place to bring kids especially on a first camping trip. Dog friendly. Tent friendly. Can accommodate large RVs. No spot is bad."
Educational opportunities: King Mountain offers nature trails with learning opportunities. "We stayed on the river at site 14. The camp host asked who we had staying and once he realized two small children he suggested a spot to stay which worked out perfectly," shares Samantha M.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Big Bear Campground and RV Park provides full hookups for larger rigs. "Pet friendly and Wi-Fi is available and free! Propane, water fill, and dump station are available at this park," confirms Courtney H.
Space constraints: Many Sutton area campgrounds have limited space for large RVs. At Montana Creek Campground, Erik J. observes, "It is heavily wooded and would be difficult to maneuver with a larger RV or toy hauler."
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds sit close to highways. Sierra S. notes about Montana Creek, "This is a great place to fish and play but it is located right next to the Parks Highway which can be loud and busy with tourists and semis in the summer."
Site selection strategy: For the best RV experience, choose sites carefully. At Finger Lake State Recreation Site, Shadara W. advises, "24 tent sites and 8 rv sites, 1-8 and 15-21 are reservable, with sites 9-14 fcfs. $25 a night dry camping. Minimum booking 2 days in advance."
