Best Campgrounds near Willow, AK

Camping near Willow, Alaska, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Fishing: The area is known for its excellent fishing spots. At Willow Creek Resort, one reviewer mentioned, "Willow Creek gets a good annual run of King, Silvers and Pink Salmon...with the occasional Chum." This makes it a great spot for anglers of all skill levels.
• Canoeing and Kayaking: If you enjoy paddling, South Rolly Lake Campground is perfect. One camper said, "6 miles of canoe trails on Nancy Lake to keep you nice and busy all weekend long."
• Hiking: Explore the trails around Nancy Lake State Recreation Site. A visitor noted, "This is a great spot to take your younger kids to teach them the basics," highlighting the family-friendly hiking options.

What campers like

• Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One review for Montana Creek Campground stated, "This is a beautiful spot right on the creek," emphasizing the picturesque setting.
• Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Matanuska River Park Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms and showers are clean and there’s always toilet paper."
• Wildlife: Campers enjoy spotting local wildlife. At Eagle River Campground, one camper shared, "We also had a moose and calf hanging around," which adds to the outdoor experience.

What you should know

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in the summer. A camper at Willow Creek Resort warned, "The mosquitos were the worst we witnessed in all of Alaska."
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Hatcher Pass Backcountry Sites, have no amenities. A review noted, "There are no amenities and few people in the area," so plan accordingly.
• First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Finger Lake State Rec Area advised, "I would try to show up closer to noon after people are leaving those sites."

Tips for camping with families

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids. One family at South Rolly Lake Campground said, "If you have kids bring their bikes!" This makes it a fun spot for families.
• Safety First: Always keep an eye on younger campers. A parent at Nancy Lake State Recreation Site mentioned, "Not too much in and out traffic and plenty for them to just explore and learn close to camp."
• Pack Essentials: Bring bug spray and other essentials. A camper at Montana Creek Campground noted, "Watch out for uneven ground at campsites," so be prepared for the terrain.

Tips from RVers

• Space Considerations: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A visitor at Fox Run Lodge & RV Campground said, "The hookups are on the opposite side if you back in," so plan your setup accordingly.
• Check for Amenities: Look for campgrounds with full hookups if you need them. One camper at Matanuska River Park Campground appreciated the "30 amp electrical" options available.
• Noise Levels: Be aware of noise from nearby roads or other campers. A review for Eagle River Campground mentioned, "Some sites you can hear the river and some road noise," so choose your spot wisely.

Camping near Willow, Alaska, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike.