Valdez Glacier Campground offers scenic campsites surrounded by forest approximately 4 miles outside town, with rates comparable to state park fees but including additional amenities. The campground features both standard and RV sites, with over 100 basic sites available during the camping season. Winter conditions can limit access from October through April, though determined campers may still reach the area with appropriate vehicles and cold-weather gear.
What to do
Kayak at Valdez Glacier Lake: Located near Valdez Glacier Campground, this activity offers unique outdoor experiences. "Great bathroom/shower facility. Waterfall on the campground across from the trash dump. Close drive to Glacier View Park," notes Tanya B., highlighting the convenient access to natural attractions.
Explore local waterways: The harbor area provides opportunities for viewing wildlife. "Great place to stay and fish! Waterfalls, bears, sea lions, kayaking, Visitors Center and Hatchery Tour," reports DanandBirdie P. who stayed at Eagle's Rest RV Park.
Hike nearby trails: Several hiking paths connect to camping areas. "Close to hiking trails I would try this spot before any others," recommends a camper who enjoyed the accessibility at Bear Paw RV Park II.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Tent campers particularly appreciate secluded spots. "Each spot is enclosed with foliage. There are stairs up to the spots, so do know that before bringing heavy items, but it's totally worth it," explains anna C. about Bear Paw RV Park II.
Shower facilities: Hot showers rank high on campers' priority lists in this region. "Large, Clean and quiet campground with plenty of outhouses spread throughout so you don't have to walk too far in the middle of the night. Trees separate each lot and provide privacy and beauty," states Joy W. about her experience at Valdez Glacier.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings enhance the camping experience. "We stayed in one of the campers it was dirty when we first got there meaning someone forgot to sweep. But for the price and the location it was great! We were there with family and enjoyed it. There were black bears wondering around but we didn't get to see any," shares Maria M. who camped at Valdez Glacier.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Prepare for rainfall even during summer months. "Sorry for the watery pictures I waited till we were headed out to take them and it had started raining my then," mentions Shadara W. about her stay at Valdez Glacier.
Insect populations: Bug activity varies by location and season. "This is a parking lot and the spots are tight. However the city is set in such a beautiful place it's hard to complain. Close to all the amenities you could want," notes Tanya B. about Eagle's Rest.
Limited cell service: Some campgrounds offer an unplugged experience. "Quiet place to stay minus the planes taking off randomly. Loved not having service. And loved the waterfall in the campground," writes Wes F. about Valdez Glacier Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible sites: Some glamping locations near Valdez require climbing. "The tent sites are centrally located, but the location feels super private. There are stairs up to the spots, so do know that before bringing heavy items," advises a camper at Bear Paw.
Consider off-season timing: Early summer offers advantages. "With sun all day and night it is very hard to keep the wilderness from taking back spaces. The spots were big but the mosquitoes were terrible. Camping here early on the season would have been better," suggests Tanya B. from her experience at Valdez Glacier Campground.
Plan for bear safety: Wildlife awareness is essential. "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," reports Melissa W. about her stay at Bear Paw RV Park II.
Tips from RVers
Reserve ahead for slide-out space: Some RV sites have specific orientation requirements. "The spot was reserved in advance and the reservation requests the side the RVs slides are on. You are greeted by a golf cart on arrival they show you to your spot and directed you in so that they would have no issues using their slides," advises a reviewer at Bear Paw RV Park II.
Check hookup options: Available utilities vary between glamping locations close to Valdez, Alaska. "These are full hook ups and if you remember a cable you can get cable TV too. There is a huge area to walk your furry travel buddies as well," mentions Tanya B. about Eagle's Rest RV Park.
Consider proximity to town services: Some RV parks offer better access to necessities. "With over 100 basic sites to choose from, you should be able to find a site to suit your needs. Some sites are closer together and some are a bit farther apart. When we visited in the summer, it was pretty quiet and we had a lot of sites to choose from. It is a bit outside of town, but worth staying there," explains Staci J. about her Valdez Glacier camping experience.
