Established campgrounds near Tanacross, Alaska offer seasonal accommodations from May through mid-September when the region experiences milder temperatures. Located in Alaska's interior at approximately 1,600 feet elevation, the area experiences dramatic temperature variations with summer highs reaching the 80s°F and winter lows dropping below -50°F. Camping options range from basic tent sites to specialty accommodations including converted vehicles and rustic cabins.
What to do
Enjoy sauna relaxation after travel: Thompsons Eagles Claw Motorcycle Park provides a traditional sauna that many travelers appreciate after long drives on the Alaska Highway. Clayton S. notes, "The sauna is a welcome respite for tired bones. Everytime i go to Alaska, I will be staying at Thompson's Eagle Claw."
Visit the nearby market: Three Bears Outpost features an on-site market that eliminates the need for trips into town for basic supplies. The convenient location serves as a strategic stop for those traveling the Alaska Highway, with Joe C. commenting that it's an "Amazing place, amazing service and a great place to stop by and check out, a definitely must see."
Experience unique accommodations: Thompsons Eagles Claw offers unconventional glamping options including a converted ambulance. Clayton S. shares, "I personally stayed in the ambulance and was quite comfortable after a long ride." This provides travelers with a distinctive overnight experience not commonly found in standard campgrounds.
What campers like
Diverse accommodation choices: The camping areas near Tanacross feature a range of options from traditional tent sites to yurt camping. Tanacross, Alaska yurt camping alternatives include the "eclectic collection of campsites/cabins" at Thompsons Eagles Claw Motorcycle Park, as mentioned by Clayton S.
Attentive hosting: Personal attention from site owners creates a welcoming atmosphere for travelers. Clayton found that "Vanessa is an impeccable host who really cares about those who stay at her place" at Thompsons Eagles Claw.
Convenient highway access: Three Bears Outpost provides easy accessibility directly from the Alaska Highway at mile 1313.3, making it a practical stopping point for through-travelers. Joe C. describes it as "a great place to stop by and check out" during Alaska Highway journeys.
What you should know
Limited seasonal operation: Both primary camping areas operate only from mid-May through mid-September due to harsh winter conditions. Year-round yurt camping near Tanacross, Alaska is not available.
Varying hookup availability: Three Bears Outpost provides electric hookups, water connections, and sewer hookups for RVs, while Thompsons Eagles Claw offers more rustic accommodations with water hookups but no electric service.
Reservation policies differ: Plan ahead as Thompson's typically operates on a first-come basis while advance reservations are possible at Three Bears Outpost. Joe C. recommends Three Bears as "a definitely must see" destination when planning your Alaska Highway itinerary.
Tips for camping with families
Accommodations vary widely: Family groups should consider the spectrum of options from traditional camping to specialty accommodations. Joe C. found that Thompsons Eagles Claw was "amazing and just great at everything they do definitely a must place to visit" for his travel group.
Pack appropriate clothing: Interior Alaska experiences significant temperature fluctuations even during summer months. Evening temperatures can drop considerably, requiring layers even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s°F.
Access to basic supplies: Thompsons Eagles Claw Motorcycle Park sells firewood on-site, while Three Bears Outpost maintains a market for essential provisions, reducing the need for families to carry everything from distant locations.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Three Bears Outpost provides thirty-amp electrical connections, water hookups, and sewer connections suitable for most RVs. The campground is also described as big-rig friendly for larger vehicles.
Sanitation facilities: Three Bears Outpost maintains a sanitary dump station for RV waste disposal, which can be difficult to find in this remote region. Both locations provide toilets and drinking water access for campers.
