South Rolly Lake Campground occupies a wooded area in the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area near Willow, Alaska, approximately 30 minutes from Trapper Creek. The campground sits at around 400 feet elevation in a mixed spruce and birch forest surrounding the 126-acre lake. Winter temperatures commonly drop below zero while summer brings extended daylight hours with temperatures typically ranging from 55-75°F, creating distinct camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Montana Creek Campground provides access to exceptional fishing spots. "Big fish and amazing views. This is a great place to stop and fish and look for wildlife. Amazing views, trees, and FISH," notes Brad B. about the Montana Creek Campground.
Canoeing and kayaking: The Nancy Lake area features interconnected waterways ideal for paddling. "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. There are canoe and kayak rentals and the dock is great for fishing or swimming," writes Kristina G. about the South Rolly Lake Campground.
Hiking trails: Several established trails begin directly from campgrounds in the area. "Great, well maintained campground for a base camp for exploring the Nancy Lake Rec. Area! There is a great canoe rental shop in the campground that provides everything you need to get on the water," shares Cassandra S.
What campers like
Privacy and spaciousness: Campers consistently mention the well-designed campsites. "This campground has so many cool sites tucked away. There is also a lovely little central area safe for kids to play in. We stayed up until the rise telling stories around the fire and taking late night swims," shares Sierra S. about South Rolly Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area offers frequent wildlife sightings. "This seems like a well loved campsite and the lake was beautiful! Lots of sites to choose from and a lot of moose!" mentions Mari R. about her stay at South Rolly Lake.
River access: Willow Creek Resort offers convenient water access. "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," reports Doug H.
What you should know
Mosquito prevalence: Waterside locations mean insects are common during summer months. "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 grass it's just gravel. And the mosquitos were the worst we witnessed in all of Alaska," warns Sierra D. about Willow Creek Resort.
Road noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds. "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," advises Sierra S. about Montana Creek Campground.
Water availability: Water sources vary between campgrounds. "Potable water available in nearby Willow at Three Bears. Pit toilets and well water in the campground (boil water)," notes Pam W. about South Rolly Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Campgrounds offer various attractions for children. "The campground has so many cool sites tucked away. There is also a lovely little central area safe for kids to play in," recommends Sierra S. about South Rolly Lake Campground.
Playground access: Willow Creek Resort provides dedicated play areas. "Basic playground for kids and a lot of tame bunnies for them to watch. Family friendly place, staff is super friendly and helpful," shares Valeria G.
Swimming spots: Several locations offer safe swimming areas. "We stayed here using a pull through site, no power with a walking path directly to the lake. The camp hosts were helpful with firewood for sale, the toilets not terrible and bathroom area clean, kayak/canoe rentals on location, water, and a little sand area for kids to play in," explains Samantha M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on rig size and requirements. "We stayed here using a pull through site, no power with a walking path directly to the lake. We brought a canopy to hide from the rain, canoeing attire, food to cook on the campfire, fishing equipment and warm clothes," advises Samantha M. about South Rolly Lake Campground.
Hookup options: Full-service sites are limited but available. "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. The campsites on the north side have 30 AMP but no water," reports MickandKarla W. about Montana Creek Campground.
Yurt camping availability: For those seeking yurt camping near Trapper Creek, Alaska, options are limited but some facilities offer yurt rentals seasonally. While traditional yurt camping in Trapper Creek, Alaska isn't widely available at established campgrounds, some private properties in the area offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to tent camping.
