Valdez serves as the main hub for pet friendly camping near Tatitlek, Alaska, offering various options from dispersed sites to established campgrounds. The surrounding Chugach Mountains create a distinct microclimate with annual precipitation around 60 inches, significantly higher than many Alaskan locations. Winter temperatures typically range from 15-30°F while summer averages 50-70°F with extended daylight hours.
What to do
**Waterfall viewing: Explore the numerous cascades near camping areas. At Valdez Glacier Campground, you'll find "a waterfall on the campground across from the trash dump" and as Wes F. notes, you can enjoy "not having service. And loved the waterfall in the campground."
**Fishing opportunities: Try your luck at various fishing spots around Valdez. At Allison Point Campground, campers appreciate being "just 30-40 feet from the ocean" with spots directly along the road for easy water access.
**Mountain biking: Use campgrounds as a base for cycling adventures. Melynda B. mentions Valdez RV Park has "great bike paths. Saw bear feeding from bike path, accessible from campground (along the Richardson highway, not IN the camp area)."
What campers like
**Convenient downtown access: Some campers prefer being close to town amenities. At Bear Paw RV Park, Brad H. appreciates that "You are right by the harbor and walking distance to shops/restaurants" though notes "it's more of a parking lot than a scenic spot."
**Private tent sites: For those seeking separation from RVs and more privacy. At Bear Paw RV Park II, Cody M. found "Lots of shaded spots by the road, but if you're willing to walk in, the spots on the hill are fantastic! I had the entire hill to myself and took the spot at the very top which had great views of town and the sea."
**Alpine camping: Experience high-elevation sites with unique views. SJ D. describes Blueberry Lake State Recreation Site as a "Perfect spot to stretch stiff legs up in Thomson's pass" but warns "This area tends to get 'socked' in so be prepared to be one with the clouds."
What you should know
**Weather considerations: The Valdez area experiences frequent rain and changing conditions. At Blueberry Lake, SJ D. advises "If driving drive slow lots of twists, don't use your brights it will be harder to see."
**Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent many campgrounds in the area. Melissa W. reports at Bear Paw RV Park II, "The campground owner did warn us of a black bear that had been wandering around the campground. There was scat and we did hear him one night but didn't have any problems sharing the space with him."
**Reservation strategies: Popular campgrounds fill quickly in summer. For Blueberry Lake, Tanya B. notes "Spots were full and there were only 2 first come first served sites so be sure to go online to reserve one. Totally worth it."
**Parking lot style: Many Valdez RV parks are primarily gravel lots. MickandKarla W. describes Bear Paw RV Park as "essentially a large gravel parking lot with sparse patches of grass and weeds between a mix of pull-through and back-in sites. While the sites were very close together, the spectacular mountain views in every direction made this CG special."
Tips for camping with families
**Pet-friendly trail access: Many campgrounds connect to trail systems suitable for families with pets. At Eagle's Rest RV Park, Peggy S. notes they're "Walking distance to town and grocery store. They were very friendly and clean & safe camping. They keep the bears out and provide free coffee."
**Budget-friendly options: Save money while still accessing amenities. Paula S. recommends Mineral Creek's free dispersed camping: "What a gorgeous place to spend the night. The sound of the waterfall lulls you to sleep."
**Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be intense at certain locations. At Blueberry Lake, Lisa F. warns "The mosquitos were relentless but what a view" despite the stunning scenery.
Tips from RVers
**Utility considerations: Check what hookups are available at each campground. At Valdez KOA, Tanya B. recommends it for RVers seeking "hook ups" and adds you can "Camp in the wilderness but still get your emails."
**Site spacing awareness: Many RV parks have tight spacing. MickandKarla W. reports at Bear Paw RV Park: "Water pressure was steady at about 50 PSI, and each site had a small picnic table. Connectivity was mixed: 4 bars on Verizon extended network, 3 bars on T-Mobile (sometimes workable), and above-average campground WiFi."
**Seasonal timing: Plan your pet-friendly RV trip according to seasonal conditions. Shadara W. notes Eagle's Rest RV Park offers "full hook ups" and is "close to everything" while providing "walking distance to town and grocery store."
