Camping in Alaska – Beginner’s Guide

Alaska is hands down a prime destination to experience the wilderness at its glory. Alaska’s untamed beauty is on full display with Denali, North America’s tallest peak, reaching a staggering 20,320 feet.  This is just the beginning – did you know, Alaska has more coastline than all the other US states combined? It boats over 34,000 miles of shoreline!

Additionally, Alaska is teeming with life. Visitors can spot brown bears, caribou, wolves, and whales in their natural habitat. If you’re looking to camp in Alaska, you won’t be disappointed! There is an endless list of options to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery of mountains, forests, and lakes from day trips to week-long excursions.  

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a curious first-timer, Alaska has something for everyone.  Choose from a variety of campgrounds that cater to different styles and needs.  Many campgrounds offer amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and even restrooms, while others provide a more rustic experience.

Best Places to Camp in Alaska

Big Lake, Alaska

Big Lake is a fantastic destination for camping enthusiasts, offering three Alaska State Park facilities. The Big Lake North State Recreation Site spans 19 acres (7.7 ha) and features a large campground, picnic areas, a boat launch, and jet ski rentals. For those seeking a smaller, more intimate experience, the Big Lake South State Recreation Site offers a cozy campground, picnic sites, and a boat launch. Both parks are perfect for winter activities such as cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and dog mushing.

Bird Creek Campground, Chugach State Park

Located southeast of Anchorage on Turnagain Arm, Bird Creek Campground is a year-round destination that is typically snow-free by April. This popular roadside campground serves as an excellent base for early-season cycling and strolling once the paved Bird-to-Gird bike trail clears. The exposed Bird Ridge and the Turnagain Arm Trail between Potter and Windy offer some of the earliest hiking opportunities in the region.

Seward Waterfront Camping, Kenai Peninsula

Overlooking Resurrection Bay in downtown Seward, this campground complex is perfect for spring camping. The shoulder season (April to May ) and winter camping (Oct. to April ) are embraced, with some sites offering electrical hookups year-round. In sunny May, the bay teems with marine wildlife, and boat tours offer spectacular views of the gray whale migration. This campground serves as an excellent base to explore Seward’s many attractions, with reduced rates during the shoulder and winter seasons.

Camping Options with Big Lake Boat Rental

Experience a unique and luxurious camping adventure with Big Lake Boat Rental, which offers a variety of exciting options to enhance your stay in Big Lake. The personal sauna rental business provides a memorable addition to your vacation, perfect for family gatherings, weddings, or wellness retreats. You can book the sauna for durations ranging from 2 to 24 hours, making it a flexible and delightful feature of your camping trip.

For a cozy and comfortable stay, consider one of the summer and winter-ready cabin rentals available at Big Lake. These custom cabins provide a perfect retreat right on the lake, allowing you to enjoy the scenic beauty of Big Lake year-round. Whether you’re visiting in the vibrant summer or the serene winter, these cabins offer a homey and convenient lodging option for you and your companions.

In addition to cabin rentals, Big Lake Boat Rental offers a variety of water and winter sports equipment, ensuring endless fun during your stay. You can rent pontoon party boats, jet skis, kayaks, paddleboards, tubes, and more, all available on their private waterfront property. During winter, they also provide snowmachine rentals, making it easy to explore the snowy landscapes. Plus, the on-site sauna is a great way to relax and unwind after a day of outdoor adventures.

Quick Tips:

• Pack smart: Layers, rain gear, bear safety & itinerary sharing are key.
• Tread lightly: Leave no trace, camp designated sites, respect wildlife.
• Go with the flow: Research, but be open to exploring