South Rolly Lake Campground contains 16 waterfront sites and 48 total spaces across three loops within the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area. Located approximately 65 miles north of Anchorage, the area provides access to a system of interconnected lakes and trails popular with canoeists. Montana Creek Campground operates two separate facilities—a public site on the east side of Parks Highway and a private campground with hook-ups on the west side. Seasonal fishing regulations vary based on salmon runs, with king salmon fishing typically closed by mid-July and silver salmon runs peaking in August.
What to do
Canoe the lake system: South Rolly Lake Campground serves as the gateway to the Nancy Lake canoe trail system. "6 miles of 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, several lake access day use sites with picnic tables and fire rings," notes Shadara W.
Fish for multiple species: Montana Creek offers diverse fishing opportunities throughout the season. "This is a beautiful spot right on the creek. You can just walk from your camper to the creek just on the other side of the retaining wall," explains Erik J. Anglers target rainbow trout, dolly varden, and several salmon species depending on seasonal runs.
Float trips: Willow Creek Resort provides convenient access for popular float trips. "This campground is popular with rafters and fishermen who like to drive upstream and float back to the campground. Willow Creek gets a good annual run of King, Silvers and Pink Salmon...with the occasional Chum," reports Randy M.
What campers like
Wooded privacy: Many sites offer natural separation between camping spaces. "Sites are pretty generous and private. Hiking trails are bountiful and beautiful. There is a canoe trail between some lakes around the area and South Rolly Lake itself is fun to take your canoe or kayak out on," shares Christy H.
Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds provide opportunities to observe native Alaska wildlife. "This seems like a well loved campsite and the lake was beautiful! Lots of sites to choose from and a lot of moose!" states Mari R.
Level sites for larger rigs: Some areas accommodate bigger recreational vehicles. "We walked the grounds and chose back-in site 13 in the tent area, which was more than long enough for our 40' fifth wheel and F450—we even got to put the back patio down," reports MickandKarla W. about their stay at Montana Creek Campground.
What you should know
Road noise considerations: Proximity to highways affects some camping experiences. "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. If you're sleeping in a camper the noise might not be so bad but the Alaska Highway doesn't have a quiet hour," warns Sierra S.
Mosquito preparation: Insect protection is essential when glamping in Talkeetna, Alaska, particularly near water. "Campground was empty, check in was nice and staff was great. They have free wifi, showers, bathrooms and full hookup. Downsides is there's no gravel it's just grass. And the mosquitos were the worst we witnessed in all of Alaska," cautions Sierra D.
Services availability: Water and dump station access varies between locations. "There is a potable water fill up but no dump. Mosquitos galore though this time of year. Really pretty Creek. Great wifi near the well stocked store. Close to supermarket too," notes Lisa F.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. "Nice clean campground on the river. Easy access to the river for the kids and fishing. Bathrooms were clean. Has full hook-ups, and a dump station on site if you don't get a full hook-up. Only negative is it's right off the Parks HWY. Basic playground for kids and a lot of tame bunnies for them to watch," shares Doug H.
Swimming spots: Designated swimming areas provide safe recreation. "I love the South Rolly Lake campground. We have been going here for years. The sites are large and campground staff clean them daily after campers leave. The outhouses are clean and also maintained daily. There are canoe and kayak rentals and the dock is great for fishing or swimming!" explains Kristina G.
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing creates learning experiences for children. "We found this campground to be very tightly packed sites. It's right on Montana Creek so great for fly fishing. Across the highway is a private campground with hook ups and a market," notes SJ D.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should scout locations before committing. "We called, and they told us to come on in. Located just off the Parks Highway/AK-3, the friendly campground manager gave us a map of the dry-camping sites that were available, including a few in the tent section that could handle our 40' fifth wheel and told us to pick a spot," advises MickandKarla W.
Hookup limitations: Water pressure and electrical service vary between campgrounds. "Check in was very easy. Guys at the store are very helpful. It is right off the road, so yes there is road noise. We had a pull thru site, very level with a picnic table and fire pit. Very close to Johnny on the spot toilet, which was very clean. There are electricity hook ups but no water," explains Lisa F.
Internet connectivity: Cell service and wifi availability differ by location. "We had 2 bars LTE on Verizon and 1 bar roaming on T-Mobile. The site had a picnic table, fire pit, and a nice stand-up grill. The campsites on the north side have 30 AMP but no water," reports MickandKarla W.
