Best Dispersed Camping in Alaska

Alaska is the biggest state in the U.S., more than twice the size of Texas. Yet it’s the least densely populated state in America, and one of the most sparsely populated areas in the world. There’s a lot of land waiting to be explored. It can be overwhelming trying to figure out the best place to go if you’re thinking about camping in Alaska. Fortunately, we’re here to help.

Located within a short day’s drive from Anchorage, Denali National Park covers six million acres of wild, untamed land. A destination for mountaineers, explorers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, the park is home to North America’s tallest peak, Denali—formerly Mount McKinley. The mountain alone attracts visitors from all over the world to climb its rugged peaks, ski its snowy slopes, and take in all the natural wonder camping in Alaska has to offer.

Established by Congress in 1917 as a park to conserve Dall sheep from hunting, Denali is home to all sorts of wild animals, such as wolves, bears, moose and reindeer. The park has six campgrounds but keep in mind there is no National Park Service-run lodging. But tent and RV camping are welcome.

If fishing is part of your camping experience, then the Russian River is the perfect place for you. Rated the most popular sockeye salmon stream in Alaska and one of the top-rated spots for rainbow trout, the Russian River is located on the Eastern Kenai Peninsula in the Chugach National Forest, which spans more than five million acres of raging rivers, mountains and beautiful terrain.

More than 100,000 people visit the Russian River area annually and enjoy activities such as hiking the Russian Lakes Trail, visiting the K’beq Interpretive Site—where tribe members guide visitors through interpretive walks showcasing archaeological sites, stories and culture—along with biking and boating. The campground has 83 campsites and is open from May through September.

As one of the ultimate bucket list camping destinations for campers like you, finding camping in Alaska can be overwhelming and, at times, competitive. Trust authentic campground reviews on The Dyrt to guide you through the wilderness in the 49th state.

Best Dispersed Sites in Alaska (40)

    1. Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    5 Reviews
    Kenai Fjords National Park, AK
    Website

    "Driving from the road is BUMPY, you'll need a vehicle with high clearance.

    We rented mobile saunas, and I highly recommend doing it, it was awesome!!"

    "Boondocking galore!!! It gets five stars for what it is. Beautiful spots right by the river and five minutes from Seward and shopping one way and five minutes from Kenai Fjords NP the other."

    2. Mineral Creek, Valdez, AK

    3 Reviews
    Valdez, AK
    Website

    "Primitive dispersed camping. No facilities. Next to glacier creek. Salmon run Aug-early Sept. Google map Mineral Creek Rd, take it to end then keep going down gravel road."

    3. Mile 48, Chena Hot Springs Road

    2 Reviews
    Eielson AFB, AK
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8700

    "Mile 48 pond access on Chena Hot Springs road. Two small lakes filled with fish. Busy on the weekends but empty during the week. Beautiful"

    4. Roadside Camp on Parks Highway

    2 Reviews
    Healy, AK

    "I ended up doing car camping here on a whim because it was super rainy and I wanted somewhere I could comfortably car camp without running into the risk of being disturbed and let me tell you this was"

    5. East Fork Chulitna Wayside

    3 Reviews
    Cantwell, AK

    "Over 10 free campsites, no electric, no water. Pit toilets available. Sites have tables and fire rings. This is a gem of a find!"

    "You'll have to make your own path to the river, grass is high. Watch out for bears."

    6. Moose Pass

    2 Reviews
    Moose Pass, AK

    "Moose Pass Trailhead

    As with most BLM trailheads, zut services."

    "Saw two seaplanes take off from the lake (take the Southern spot for this).

    Hwy is loud but manageable, train as well.

    Recommendable overnight position on the way to SEWARD."

    8. Denali Highway Mile 6.5

    1 Review
    Fort Greely, AK
    Website

    "Clean rest stop, and detail  interpretive signs, some times the trash over flows though"

    9. Decision Point Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Whittier, AK
    Website

    "A number of tent platforms, 2 toilets and a few bear proof boxes. From this camp ground it is time to "decide" which way you want to go as the sound really opens up to you."

    10. Denali Highway - Dispersed Site

    1 Review
    Cantwell, AK
    Website

    "Denali Highway is a paradise for dispersed camping. Nice location with great view"

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Showing results 1-10 of 40 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews in Alaska

24 Reviews of 40 Alaska Campgrounds



Guide to Alaska

Experience the thrill of dispersed camping in Alaska, where breathtaking landscapes and serene environments await outdoor enthusiasts. From stunning mountain views to tranquil lakes, these spots offer a unique way to connect with nature.

Top Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • Enjoy the stunning scenery and proximity to Seward activities at the Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, where snow-covered peaks surround you.
  • Experience the beauty of Tustumena Lake, a small area with individual sites and a boat ramp, perfect for fishing and enjoying the outdoors.
  • Discover the pristine wilderness at Decision Point Dispersed Camping, accessible by a scenic kayak trip from Whittier, offering tent platforms and breathtaking views.

Top Activities While Free Camping in Alaska

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out These Features

  • Experience the unique opportunity to rent a mobile sauna while camping at Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, adding a touch of luxury to your outdoor adventure.
  • Enjoy the convenience of pit toilets and picnic tables at the East Fork Chulitna Wayside, making it a comfortable stop for families.
  • Take advantage of the large, open spaces at Moose Pass, where you can find plenty of room for various rig sizes and enjoy the stunning lake views.