Cabins near Wasilla, Alaska provide access to the Matanuska-Susitna Valley at elevations ranging from 300 to 2,200 feet, depending on location. Winter temperatures can drop to -20°F while summer highs reach 70°F. Most cabin facilities operate seasonally from mid-May through September, with reduced availability during the winter months.
What to do
Lake activities: fish for rainbow trout: Nancy Lake State Recreation Site offers fishing opportunities directly from the shoreline. According to a visitor, "You can paddle out without worrying about other peoples wakes. It also lets you float silently and gives you better opportunities to get some great views of the local wildlife."
Hiking trails: connect to wilderness areas: South Rolly Lake Campground provides trail access to multiple hiking options. As one camper noted, "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."
Wildlife viewing: observe native species: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. At Hatcher Pass Lodge, visitors can experience "Rustic cabin and the best hot cakes. Great sledding in the winter and amazing hiking in the summer. Great place to beat out the winter blues."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: spaced accommodations: Camping cabins near Wasilla often feature good separation between units. At Eklutna Lake Campground, "The sites are large and well-spaced, but not all quite as secluded as I'd like...Unlike some other campgrounds in the area, you are able to gather/chop dead fall wood for your campfire."
Year-round options: seasonal variations: Several cabin facilities operate throughout winter. According to a visitor at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground, "A great place to stop off and catch your breath. Pavillion with fire pit, two grills so you dont have to unpack yours, and hammocks to laze away the day."
Food options: on-site dining: Some cabin locations include food service. One visitor mentioned, "Super friendly host and gorgeous area. Our RV door opened up to a view of the gorgeous lake. Plenty of amenities and the on site restaurant is a gem. The Thai food was REALLY good."
What you should know
Weather preparation: temperature swings: Cabin campers should prepare for variable conditions. At Eagle River Campground, a visitor warned, "Don't keep your food out of a secured box or by your tent, or rent one of their yurts. Make sure you take bear spray and/or a gun with you. Also bring bug spray as the mosquitoes can be quite viscous."
Seasonal bug challenges: mosquito precautions: Insect protection is essential during summer months. A camper at Nancy Lake noted, "Skeeters weren't terrible between the fire, bug spray and bug room we were just fine and came out with minimal bites."
Limited services: bring necessities: Most cabin rentals require self-sufficiency. As one visitor at Bird Creek Campground explained, "there is a small wood stove and wood supplied for each cabin which was amazing! A lil kitchen area is built in for your food prep pleasure- must bring stoves and water. No electricity so bring your choice of lighting."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: designated play areas: Several campgrounds offer family-friendly facilities. At Big Bear Campground, "The park had helpful and friendly staff, clean bathrooms, a nice laundry facility, and even a playground with a communal pavilion for people to gather round together."
Safe swimming locations: designated areas: Families can enjoy water activities at several locations. At South Rolly Lake, "We stayed here using a pull through site, no power with a walking path directly to the lake. It ended up raining the whole weekend but was still a great trip...We brought a canopy to hide from the rain, canoeing attire, food to cook on the campfire, fishing equipment and warm clothes."
Learning opportunities: educational options: Nancy Lake provides beginner-friendly experiences. A visitor suggested, "This is a great spot to take your younger kids to teach them the basics. Were new to the area so really just learning AK. But this was a great spot for a 5&4 YO. Not to much in and out traffic and plenty for them to just explore and learn close to camp."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: space considerations: RV cabin campers should research site dimensions. At Eagle River Campground, "Located around 5 minutes to Eagle River. Beautiful location on River. ADA accessibility. Dump station on site. Restrooms available. There is a fee and a limit on how long you can stay."
Reservation timing: early booking: Secure sites well in advance for peak season. A visitor at Fox Run Lodge noted, "Great park with daily, weekly, monthly rates. There is a mix of full hookups, electric and water, and primitive sites so try and reserve if possible."
Connectivity limitations: plan accordingly: Many cabin locations have limited cell service. As one camper mentioned about Nancy Lake, "Cell Service: spotty, Internet: no, 2020 Cost: $20 - $25, Distance from Anchorage: 76 miles, Best sites: A2, A8, A20, A22, A26, A24, Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 4-7 depending on weather."
