Best Camping in and near Chugach State Park

100% (5 reviews)

Explore the Eagle River and this exceptionally large park filled with mountains, glaciers, and forests.

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Community favorites near Chugach State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Chugach State Park

the sky gave us a bit of a smile on our last night here

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Eagle River Campground

57 sites · RVs, Tents In Chugach State Park

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Bird Creek Campground

28 sites · RVs, Tents In Chugach State Park

Eklutna Lake Campground

61 sites · RVs, Tents In Chugach State Park

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Top-rated campgrounds near Chugach State Park

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Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

3 sites · Lodging3 acres · Anchorage, AK

Sleepy Bear cabin was built as a retreat for my father here in Alaska. Our 1st year listed on Hipcamp our cabin came in second in best places to stay in Alaska with Hipcamp. The last 2 years we were still mentioned in the top 10 with some pretty stiff competition. Eagle River South Fork trail with stunning views of Eagle and Symphony lakes is a short bike ride away. Breathtaking Barbara Falls is in our valley 10mins away. You hike up to the falls and feels its breath. Our Mountain views at 2000' elevation in the alpine forest with the 7000' snow covered peaks at the back of the valley will awe you. Morning coffee on your private deck alone is worth the trip. We know you will love our little mountain get away. I came to Alaska in the 90's with the Coast Guard. It was always my dream to come back. Alaska has a hold on you no other place possesses. Since our move back almost 6 years ago, our family has blossomed. We love living here and want to share our love of Alaska with others.

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Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Palmer, AK

Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Located on the river's edge of the Knik River in Palmer, Alaska, our glamping tents offer a unique experience. Unplug, unwind and kickback in our Stout canvas style bell tents. Each tent is stylishly outfitted with a queen size bed, linens, rugs, stylish decor and other amenities. You also will have your own smokeless Solo Stove with seating for two outside your tent. Only 45 minutes north of Anchorage, our location boasts incredible views with access to all things outdoor! There are shared porta toilets with foot pump sinks with soap for hand washing on site. There is one on demand outdoor shower! We have an outdoor kitchen with a BBQ grill, pots, pans, dishes, silverware, salt, pepper and other items for guest use. Half of the property is an adult glamping experience. Half of the property allows children, as long as you understand that we are located right on the river and children should be supervised. Our property is the perfect basecamp with easy access to hiking for all abilities; Bodenburg Butte, Lazy Mountain, Pioneer Peek and Pioneer Falls. Located right on the Knik River we can help you plan a day of fishing, kayaking or riverboat touring. Other local activities include ATV rentals, glacier helicopter tours, exploring the town of Palmer, the Alaska State Fair, a trip to the Reindeer Farm, Independence Mine State Historical Park, the Musk Ox Farm, horseback riding, touring our breweries, enjoying the local golf course, sled dog tours and so much more! Although we love pets, in order to keep tents clean and odor fee, pets are not allowed without permission. No smoking 🚭 Check in 4pm Check out 11am We ask that shoes be removed before enter the tent.

Jim Creek Blank Land

30 sites · RVs13 acres · Palmer, AK

This is blank land in the Buette area of Palmer, Alaska. No signs except for the address sign. Make your own spot. No amenities. Please take your own trash out. Enjoy your stay for just $10 a night. Near Jim Creek. Great fishing. A lot of trails for 4X4s and riding ATVs. Come park your car, camper, RV etc and enjoy Alaskan life at Jim Creek Blank land.

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BlueWater BaseCamp: Deluxe Cabins

8 sites · Lodging5 acres · Chugiak, AK

Welcome to BlueWater BaseCamp! BlueWater BaseCamp is a haven for those who seek solace and rejuvenation in nature without venturing far from the city. Nestled in the scenic Eklutna Valley, BWBC is a boutique hotel and event venue catering to independent travelers, locals, groups of up to 22 people, and events with up to 75 attendees. Accommodations: Our Deluxe Micro Cabins offer an intimate Alaskan experience, perfectly suited for two. Each cabin features a cozy living room with a petite couch, chair, and Murphy table. The kitchenette is fully equipped with silverware, pots and pans, culinary tools, basic spices, Keurig coffee maker, stove top, microwave, and mini fridge. The bathrooms include shower, toilet, sink and some have soaking tubs. The bedrooms boast queen beds with closet space and some cabins have a loft for unwinding with a good book. For those seeking a soaking tub experience, Ranger's Roost and Bashful Peak Cabins have the added luxury of a relaxing tub. Our larger cabins, designed for groups of 4-5, offer a fully handicap-accessible first floor. The spacious cabins feature a full kitchen equipped with a mid-sized fridge, stove, oven, microwave, and a dining table for 4. The bathroom is generously sized, featuring a roll-in, zero-threshold shower, roll-under sink, and appropriately placed grab bars around the shower and toilet. The main floor bedroom hosts a queen-size bed with a 4′ turning radius, while the upstairs area provides two twin beds or a queen bed for the rest of your party. An additional pullout couch is available if needed. Immersed in the tranquility of the surrounding woods, our deluxe cabins serve as the perfect retreat to rest, rejuvenate, and explore the Eklutna Valley and beyond. Book Now to reserve your private getaway!

BRIDGE CABIN at Bear Creek Lodge

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Hope, AK

Welcome to The Bridge Cabin, a charming dry cabin nestled on two private acres in the historic town of Hope, Alaska. Part of the Bear Creek Lodge community, this cabin offers a serene and secluded retreat surrounded by natural beauty. The cabin itself is one of eight individual cabins within the Bear Creek Lodge property. It provides a cozy and rustic atmosphere, perfect for immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the Alaskan wilderness. While the cabin does not have plumbing or electricity, there is convenient access to an old outhouse nearby. For added comfort and convenience, guests of The Bridge Cabin have access to modern indoor facilities located across Bear Creek at the main lodge. Here, you'll find shared showers, toilets, and sinks, ensuring that you can freshen up after a day of outdoor adventures. During your stay, be sure to explore the nearby amenities, including a coffee shop at the lodge and the Dirty Skillet evening dinner house. Whether you're seeking outdoor activities or simply want to relax and unwind in a tranquil setting, The Bridge Cabin offers the perfect retreat in scenic Hope, Alaska.

Booked 3 times

Historic Wharfsite at Sunrise AK

10 sites · Tents10 acres · Sunrise, AK

Learn more about this land: Sixmile Creek empties into Turnagain Arm next to this picturesque area. River rafting and fishing is nearby as well as the goldrush town of Hope just eight miles away. High tides twice a day can turn this into an island if they are over 29 feet. This property is about a half mile walk down a gold-rush era road to the wharf site of the gold rush town of Sunrise City. The buildings and tents of the approximately 10,000 miners who lived in this area are long gone. But the scenic views, peacefulness and quiet of this rugged area of south central Alaska are not soon forgotten. There are no paved trails or boardwalks. No crowds or hot dog vendors. Imagine fishing without crowds--catching pink and silver salmon or trout with awesome views of the Chugach National Forest. Don't expect amenities. This is camping outdoors in Alaska. There is a communal firepit with a portable firepit and grill that can be moved to whereever you set up your tent. Usually your group will be alone on your adventure here. There is nothing like this location anywhere else along Turnagain Arm.

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Hunter Creek Alluvial Fan Glamping

1 site · Lodging10 acres · Palmer, AK

Situated in the upper end of the Knik river valley. Our 10 acre property is located where Hunter Creek flows into the Knik. Surrounded by 360 degree views of 6000 + foot mountains in the Chugach Range. We are next door to the Knik Glacier tours and the face of Knik Glacier is a mere 8 miles from our house. Trails, boating, and tours abound all within a 20 minute drive from the property.

Alaskan Adventure Haven

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Knik River, AK

The Magic Bus, as the replica bus from "Into The Wild" movie. Located in the woods, with comfortable beds, linen and electricity. You can watch the wildlife straight from the windows! Located within 200 feet from comfortable full bathroom, and the other facilities of the area Come stay in our multi-cultural, and multi-language Glamping, located in the woods by the Glacier river, right at the access to all great attractions of the area.

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Pitstop landing

1 site · RV1 acre · Wasilla, AK

Nothing fantasy but it's quite for the most part....I figure someone would need a place to park and have a base point to explore alaska were far enough out of town where u dont feel the city and lots to see ...I've camped on and in the camping area for 2 years myself and feel comfortable enough to have respectful people to share it with when they need a stop for a day or a monthLearn more about this land: alaska you can do almost anything wild in the area or in a short drive from the camp site have fun and see Lakes Hiking Fishing Bears Nature Mosse And

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The Glacier Breeze Cabin

1 site · Lodging4 acres · Palmer, AK

The 280 sq ft open floor plan cabin is delightfully set up for a comfortable stay for up to two people. Perfect for a romantic getaway, an adventure home base, an escape from the hustle of town or even all of the above! With Ted Stevens airport only one hour away, the cabin also makes for great destination to start or end your trip to get a great nights sleep while getting that first, or final, taste of the tranquil Alaskan surroundings. With a wide assortment of year round activities in the area, the cabin is an excellent choice for a place to recharge after having the adrenaline pumping all day. The experience at the Glacier Breeze is so unique, that it’s even become a place for locals to come get away and enjoy the Alaskan beauty at some of it's best! Do you worry about being surprised by the cleaning fees and checkout chores? You can already start to relax! We have no cleaning fee and the only thing we ask at check out is to make sure you have your stuff and to put the heat on low if it’s freezing out. After all, it’s you that’s here on vacation, not us! So what’s the cabin have to offer you? It may be a tiny cabin, but it’s loaded with comforts and hand crafted details! The open floor plan living area has a comfortable love seat with entertainment provided via a TV loaded with several streaming services. If you would prefer some auditory entertainment, an Alexa speaker is waiting for your request for soothing tunes of your choice to further enhance the already relaxing atmosphere. Should you prefer to just unplug from the outside world you can choose from assorted board games or Alaskan themed books to chill out with. A wood stove with supplied firewood will keep you toasty through the chilly Alaskan nights , we will of coarse be glad to explain how to use it should you not be familiar with operating one. The full size memory foam Murphy bed is layered in soft, hypoallergenic and sustainably sourced bamboo sheets topped by a warm down alternative comforter. Add in the crackling sound of the wood slowly burning in the stove and you will for sure get a great nights sleep! Blackout blinds are installed on the windows for those not so dark summer Alaskan nights. The amply equipped kitchen includes a stove, full size refrigerator, toaster, blender, crock pot, pans and the utensils you need to prepare your favorite meals. Craving a coffee or other hot beverage fix? We have you covered with the choice of a drip pot, Kureg or French press with an assortment of coffee and tea, featuring locally sourced samples. If you need something that’s not on hand, let us know and we may have it to bring out to the cabin for you to use. Not up to cooking? We would be glad to recommend a local restaurant depending on what you may be in the mood for. The Palmer area has some great locally owned restaurants, many that serve locally sourced foods. It might surprise you what is produced here in the Matsu Valley! The private bathroom features a tub/shower combo with body wash, shampoo and conditioner provided. Fast 50mb Wifi is provided for your entertainment and work needs. Bear spray and bug spray are also supplied to help keep some of the more aggressive residents at bay while out exploring the area. Please do let us know if you use the bear spray so we can replace it with a new one for the next guests, and we aren’t going to lie, we would want to hear the story! As if all that was not all the reason you needed to stay at Glacier Breeze, the cabin is conveniently located nearby several popular attractions: Knik Glacier tours and winter fat tire bike access to glacier - 1 mile Knik Glacier Helicopter tours. Several glacier tour options, heli-skiing, heli-hiking, dog sledding on the glacier in the summer and custom tours to create your own adventure. - 2 miles Pioneer Ridge trailhead - 4 miles Guided fishing on the Knik River and other valley rivers- Close! 49th State Motor Tours - 13 miles Reindeer Farm - 14 miles Alaska Horse Adventures - 14 miles Pyrah’s Pioneer Peak Farm - 15 miles Musk Ox Farm - 21 miles Alaska Zipline Adventure Park - 23 miles Hatcher Pass Area - 36 miles Snowhook Dogsledding, Snowmachine and ATV tours - 1 hour away Matanuska Glacier Tours - 1 1/2 hour away And there’s much more to do in additions to those as well and we would be glad to help you with recommendations. Then, after your day exploring the Mat-Su, you can easily be back relaxing at the Glacier Breeze after a day of making lifelong memories. We not only pride ourselves on just providing you with great accommodations, but also the high level of hospitality that comes along with your stay. Our goal is to have you not wanting to leave, remembering your stay here as a highlight of your Alaskan trip and especially looking forward to coming back! After all, every season is an entirely different experience! ** Special notes for winter ** As you can imagine, Alaska requires some extra effort in the winter. We will do our absolute best to make sure that you have as enjoyable of a time as possible with any weather mother nature may toss at us. If at anytime you have any concerns, please reach out to us and we will assist you the best we can! - If snow and ice are present, please use extra caution with footing. We do everything we can to provide for safe traction, but like everywhere in Alaska in winter, it is a constant battle with mother nature! -Please remove any ice cleats before entering the cabin to prevent damage to floor. -There is a snow shovel and ice melt provided should you need it, though we will also clear snow as required, typically after around 3" of new snow. Please understand that snow clearing operations in the area can occur at all hours of the day and night creating periodic noise. - An extension cord is provided outside for plugging in vehicles, should temperatures make it necessary. - Please let us know of any issues such as possible frozen water lines as soon as possible. This is not normally an issue, but after sustained subzero temperatures, problems can occasionally occur. -We recommend bringing some food just in case you need to wait for plows to clear the roads to get back to town. It's a good idea to travel with some in your vehicle in general , in case you get stuck on the roadside somewhere.

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North 40

5 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Sutton, AK

Camp right on the banks of the Matanuska river while staring at the magnificent King Mountain, Sentinel mountain, and Craig Mountain! Over 10 acres to pick a spot to pitch your tent or park your RV! The sites are first come fist serve. Kids will love playing in the shallow river streams and sandbars, rock hounding is great and dogs are welcome but please be a responsible dog owner and clean up after them. Come enjoy some peace and serenity at North 40!

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The Wilds

3 sites · Lodging200 acres · Fishhook, AK

Our off-grid property is situated on 200 private acres of beautiful Alaskan land. We have five miles of trails right out your cabin door and beautiful views of the Susitna River throughout. The Talkeetna Mountains serve as an incredible backdrop to it all. We live on the property, as do our array of animals. We have a family of geese and chickens who will welcome you with open wings, as well as two dogs and three cats. We operate off of solar and generated power and while the cabins do have limited electricity, we ask that you We are located just 55 miles from the Anchorage Airport, 12 miles from downtown Palmer and 14 miles from downtown Wasilla. Best of all, were just 2.8 miles from Government Peak Recreation Area and 10 miles from Hatcher Pass, so if it's adventure you're looking for, you're in luck! If you’re looking for a fun day trip, we’re just an hour and a half from Talkeetna and 3.5 hours from Denali. We've named our property The Wilds because it is wild! A large portion of our land is protected by a conservation easement, so it can never be developed. We cherish that responsibility and are excited to share the rawness of this land with you!

The best camping near Chugach State Park guide

Overview

About

This is no average park in terms of size or opportunity. Chugach State Park has nearly a half-million acres of wild space to explore, and is among the largest state parks in the country, loaded with creeks, rivers, lakes, glaciers, and mountain peaks. It’s also bordered by Prince William Sound with access to both the Chugach and Wrangell Mountains. Campers will find accessible campgrounds, cabins, trails, and roadways leading to prime areas for hiking and fishing. Convenient to Anchorage, Eagle River, Palmer, and Girdwood, Chugach is great for a day trip from a basecamp in town or overnight camping trips.

Notable campgrounds

Best for unique lodging: Darell B’s Magical Mountain has a tree fort and amazing views in a mountain environment.
Best for glamping: Lulu’s Tents and Events has several plush tents with glamping interiors conveniently set on the Knik River.
Best for rugged camping: Jim Creek Blank Land is a blank slate with easy parking and plenty of elbow room.

Tips for snagging a campsite

The park has four campgrounds: Bird Creek has 24 campsites, Bird Creek Overflow has 40 campsites, Eagle River has 57 campsites, and Eklutna Lake has 50 campsites. Aside from group sites, all campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Arrive early during peak summer season to ensure you snag a site. Eagle River has a three-night limit, meaning it is more likely to have turnover. You can reserve the group campsite and tent platform at Eagle River ahead as well.
Public-use cabins are available for rent at several Chugach campgrounds. They are all reserved in advance and fill quickly during summer.
Private Hipcamps are a great alternative to first-come, first-served public campgrounds during the busy season. Reserve ahead to secure a site near the park.

When to go

Chugach State Park is a year-round playground. Camping is most popular during the summer season when trails are open to hikers, and Eagle River fishing is also excellent during this time. Even still, being convenient to Anchorage and several other communities means the park is accessible year-round. Skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and dog mushing are popular winter activities.

Know before you go

This is a large, rugged park with a remote interior. Visitors backpacking or traversing the far-off reaches should have excellent wilderness navigation skills and satellite communication systems for emergencies.
The park campgrounds are RV-accessible, most with a 35-foot length limit. Eagle River is the exception with no size limit for RVs.
All campgrounds offer toilets, water, and fire rings for visitors. ADA-accessible facilities are also present.
Permits are required for all commercial and special-use activities. Hosting any organized event at a group campsite will require a special-use permit.