The best campgrounds near Big Lake, Alaska with swimming

Big Lake’s campgrounds put you right next to the water, with over 40 spots where swimming is front and centre. Expect easy lake access, cold plunges in the summer, and room to unwind after a day of fishing or paddling. Sites often allow campfires—perfect for drying off and sharing stories—and you’ll find toilets and pet-friendly rules at most locations. Average nights run about $57, but you’ll spot options as low as $15 if you’re flexible. favorites like Little Bear Wilderness Retreat (7 reviews), Clean Forest type camping (3 reviews), and Twin Peaks Sleeps (2 reviews) stand out for easy water access and a low-key vibe. You’ll find everything from forested nooks to open shoreline—just grab your towel and jump in.

93% (50)

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Lake

Big Lake’s campgrounds put you right next to the water, with over 40 spots where swimming is front and centre. Expect easy lake access, cold plunges in the summer, and room to unwind after a day of fishing or paddling. Sites often allow campfires—perfect for drying off and sharing stories—and you’ll find toilets and pet-friendly rules at most locations. Average nights run about $57, but you’ll spot options as low as $15 if you’re flexible. favorites like Little Bear Wilderness Retreat (7 reviews), Clean Forest type camping (3 reviews), and Twin Peaks Sleeps (2 reviews) stand out for easy water access and a low-key vibe. You’ll find everything from forested nooks to open shoreline—just grab your towel and jump in.

93% (50)

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Lake

1. Salt & Yarrow Soul Sanctuary

100%

(10)

3.2mi from Big Lake · 2 sites · Tents

This 5 acre parcel started off as raw land covered in downed spruce. The hosts have cleared and continue to clear, establishing easy to walk on trails to get from point a to point b so you can explore:) every year adding more edible vegetation with the hopes of a full blown food forest in the near future. Learn more about this land: Welcome to our Alaskan getaway! Come pitch a tent and enjoy the midnight sunsets and sunrises with a beautiful backdrop of the Alaskan sky. Our ideal location by the lake allows for swimming, kayaking and paddleboarding. We have seasonal gardens that you can pick fresh produce from - check with the host for seasonal vegetation. Feed the birds, get dirt under your fingernails, sleep in a tent, drive to the mountains (about an hour away!) and take a hike. . Enjoy Alaska, that's what this getaway is all about - we look forward to your stay! You cannot drive to the tent sites it’s park and walk but they aren’t far, 500ft at most. There is now a well on site let us know and we can help you grab you a few gallons if you need. You will need to have contact with the host before coming as the neighborhood is gated!

2. Twin Peaks Sleeps

100%

(4)

28mi from Big Lake · 13 sites · RVs

Escape the hustle and bustle of crowded campgrounds and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Eklutna Valley at Twin Peaks Sleeps. With astounding mountain views, staying at TP Sleeps will take your breath away when you step out your door. Nestled on the north edge Anchorage, Alaska, our accommodations provide a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Explore the stunning surroundings, play at Eklutna Lake and stay in quiet comfort at our 2 RV sites, large house or small apartment. Twin Peaks Sleeps are your gateway to a peaceful escape amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Eklutna Valley.

3. Clean Forest type camping

77%

(11)

8.7mi from Big Lake · 40 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land:Family friendly our campground is called houston grass station campground and is located right next to the alaska railroad watch it go by wile you camp see you here thanks

4. Talkeetna Lake Retreat

98%

(30)

42mi from Big Lake · 13 sites · RVs

Escape the daily grind and indulge in a delightful retreat with us. Welcome to our evolving Alaskan campground – a work in progress that promises a unique experience. Situated on 15 acres, our property offers kayak use included in stay, outdoor showers, outhouse restroom, scenic cross-country walking paths, and an optional propane fire pit tank to add on to your reservation. With 11 dry RV pads complemented by picnic tables, you can enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Additionally, there's a grocery store, Subway, coffee shop, and gas station within walking distance, ensuring convenience and variety during your stay. You must be able to open and close a gate to enter or exit the property. Discover the Talkeetna Lake Retreat!

5. Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

100%

(10)

33mi from Big Lake · 2 sites · Lodging

Here at Little Bear Cabins 30 minutes from Talkeetna, Alaska and Willow youll find a working off grid homestead with privacy and nature everywhere. Offering guided Alaskan plant walks and more! Private cabins with a wandering creek to explore with kayaks or skis as well as bikes all included ! Late fall its filled with salmon and trout. World class fly fishing all around you! Winter time the Northern lights will dance over you! With many trails to wander along and a bridge to view or swim. Summer or winter .. The birds here are like no other located in the migrating route of the predatory birds. You'll find nests all along the creek of rare birds.. Each cabin is private and has a firepit fridge and potable water provided . There are groomed ski trails and walking trails for guests with kayaks and bike to use during your stay .I offer guided walks of the garden and In the forest to learn about the edible and medicinal plants of Alaska. You will find stillness and nature all around you..

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

F

Frederick

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Clean Forest type camping

Stayed two weeks without any issues at campsite, porta potty on site, dumpster, and picnic table.

K

Kim

August 2025

1 night at Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

Highly recommend Shelley’s place! The cabin is so cozy and peaceful. Her land is beautiful. There are short trails and kayaks to use. Great place to rest and reset.

L

Lily

July 2025

25 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Talkeetna Lake Retreat

Our time at Talkeetna Lake Retreat was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, we felt wrapped in peace, beauty, and warm hospitality. The setting is stunning—nestled among the trees with quiet views of the lake, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and truly unwind. The site itself is thoughtfully curated, cozy, and sparkling clean, with little touches that show just how much care and intention Jessica puts into hosting. Speaking of Jessica—she is an absolute gem. Kind, responsive, and full of heart, she went above and beyond to make sure we felt welcome and had everything we needed. You can tell she genuinely loves sharing this place with others, and her warmth made our stay all the more special. Every moment here felt like a gift. We left feeling nourished and deeply grateful. If you’re looking for a soulful retreat with a truly exceptional host, Talkeetna Lake Retreat is it. We can’t wait to come back. Thank you, Jessica! 💛

J

Jinypher

July 2025

20 ft Class A

4 nights at Clean Forest type camping

Was beautiful and clean and had a lot of fun! Would definitely come back! But if you are looking for something with WiFi they never provided that information, even after messaging the host directly.

P

Pam

March 2025

2 nights at Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

Shelley was very responsive and flexible. The cabin itself was cozy and included all the basics.