The best camping in Alaska

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Alaska is a bucket list trip for people around the globe thanks to some of the world's largest intact ecosystems and the chance to spot incredible wildlife. Here you'll find wild salmon runs filling the ocean bays and rivers where brown bears feast, plus giant moose roaming the big river valleys and mountains. While some incredible parts of Alaska are accessible by highways, many areas are so remote that road systems don't exist, meaning access is by bush flight, boat, or on foot. Camping in Alaska can mean everything from pitching tents on a riverbank or enjoying comfortable RV parks adjacent to wild areas.

93% (1.4K) • 4,215 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Alaska

Pinochle Trail Campground

1. Pinochle Trail Campground

96%
(350)
Glacier View, AK · 25 sites · Tents, RVs
Escape to Glacier View, Alaska, and experience the rustic charm of Pinochle Trail Campground, with breathtaking views of the Matanuska Glacier. The campsites feature flat gravel pads, picnic tables, and fire rings. Our cabins provide direct access to hiking and riding trails. Amenities include a coffee counter, comfortable foam mattresses, electricity, a heater, a Keurig coffee maker, and a hot water kettle. Please bring your own drinking water. A 250-gallon water tank is available for campfire use. Outhouses are located near each cabin and throughout the campground. There are 25 flat, gravel sites situated directly across Pinochle Trailhead in Glacier View, Alaska. Perfect for hiking, biking, ATV riding, or snowmobiling on historic trails. Tents, trucks, cars, campers, RVs, dogsleds—whatever fits is welcome. We offer sites with tables and fire rings. Additionally, there's an "Open Camping Area" at the back, suitable for larger groups. While a site may be assigned at booking, simply choose the best available spot that works for you upon arrival. Except for the 4th of July, when the site will be assigned upon your arrival. Please bring your own water and keep your camp tidy. Follow simple and common camping rules. Pinochle Trail extends north into the backcountry for about 12 miles, connecting with other trails. Pinochle Trail is part of the historic Knik - Nelchina Trail, used by natives, trappers, miners, and hunters for centuries. It follows the natural route from the Matanuska Valley over the mountain range into Copper River country. Hicks was one of the early guides who had a cabin at Hicks Creek. Along with U.S. Army Lieutenant Joseph Castner, he helped blaze a trail northwest for Captain Glenn in 1898. Described in his journal as a "Tale of Hardship and Suffering," they ended up eating their mules and shoes before reaching their distant goal to the north. Today, we use these trails with relative ease compared to the early explorers, but the scenery and mud holes still remind us of what they endured.
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Valdez Adventure Alliance

2. Valdez Adventure Alliance

92%
(514)
Valdez, AK · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Once run by the state but is now managed by VAA. The beautiful Blueberry Lake campground on Thompson Pass has spectacular 360-degree mountain views. 21 sites are available (1-17 on a paved loop road) near the lake. Vault toilets and a water pump are available for use. Several sites work well as group camping sites. There are no RV hookups or pull-throughs. Pets and generators are allowed. Bring your own firewood. The McAllister cabin, at the mouth of Shoup Bay Marine State Park, is best accessed by kayak or boat. There is a narrow, tide dependent channel that leads to the inner lagoon where Moraine and Kittiwake cabins are located. Kayaks recommended for access.
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The Glacier Breeze

3. The Glacier Breeze

95%
(10)
Palmer, AK · 2 sites · RVs, Lodging
The Glacier Breeze is located in Alaska’s beautiful Knik River Valley surrounded by breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains. With the numerous adventures that you can take in the Knik River and Matsu areas, it makes for a perfect base camp. The property also makes for a great beginning or ending of your Alaskan trip with it being conveniently located a short hour drive from Anchorage. Why be in the city when you can be emersed in Alaska!
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Chugach National Forest

4. Chugach National Forest

96%
(49)
National forest in Alaska · 414 sites
Surround yourself with millions of acres of wild forests, mountains and river valleys.
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Denali National Park & Preserve

5. Denali National Park & Preserve

99%
(54)
National park in Alaska · 278 sites
See the tallest mountain on the continent at this Fairbanks-area park.
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Jim Creek Blank Land

6. Jim Creek Blank Land

93%
(38)
Palmer, AK · 30 sites
Welcome to Jim Creek 10 — Voted Runner-Up for Best Campground! Escape to raw, open Alaska for just $12/night. This spacious, untouched land is located in the beautiful Butte area of Palmer, right off Walling Road (address: 18748 Walling Rd). No signs, no frills—just you and the wild. Camp your way: • Choose your perfect spot—under the trees, in the open grass, or tucked into your own little hideaway. • Self-contained rigs are welcome (RV, camper, van, tent). • No hookups, no amenities. Just nature. • Pack it in, pack it out—please take all trash with you. What makes it special: • Direct access to Jim Creek ATV trails—ride straight from your site! • Excellent nearby fishing and wildlife spotting—moose are regular guests. • No designated pads—freedom to roam and set up as you like. • Campfires allowed, unless there’s an active State fire ban. Why stay here? Tired of paying $100 a night for hookups you don’t need? This land gives you freedom, space, and an unbeatable price. Perfect for off-grid adventurers, ATV enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore the Jim Creek area on their own terms.
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Albatross Campground RESERVATIONS

7. Albatross Campground RESERVATIONS

92%
(48)
Kenai, AK · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
This isn't your mom's RV park... and we're okay with that. If you're looking for a resort with a lazy river, valet parking, and someone bringing you fancy drinks by the campfire... you might want to keep driving. But if you're looking for a clean, affordable place to park your RV or pitch a tent while you enjoy everything the Kenai Peninsula has to offer, you've found it. We offer: • Spacious RV and tent sites • Hot showers, restrooms, and laundry facilities • A fish cleaning station • Vacuum sealer is currently broken for the foreseeable future. • Friendly hosts who are happy to answer questions, share local tips, or help however we can Whether you're here to chase salmon, explore Alaska, or just need a comfortable place to rest after a long day of adventure, we'd love to have you. No frills. No fuss. Just good people, clean facilities, and a great home base for your Alaskan adventure. This summer we added a second shower and restroom for the convenience of our campers as well as a Wi-Fi extender in hopes to strengthen signal at the back end of the property. We know staying connected is important, but encourage you to unplug and enjoy the beauty of Alaska. We unfortunately do not have the space to accommodate boat parking, so we ask that you please park your boat off property to keep the camp organized and enjoyable for all guests.
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Full hookups
Seaside Farm

8. Seaside Farm

99%
(162)
Homer, AK · 17 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Seaside Farm is a 30 acre, magical, park like farm on the shores of Kachemak Bay, just outside of Homer, a few miles down from the Kilcher Homestead where I grew up in the 1940's! . Now a song bird sanctuary, with trails, lawns, gardens, trees, hay fields, and a private beach, cabins, a clover camping meadow, Seaside was once part of an original Alaska pioneer homestead. It is also the home of hundreds of songbirds, moose, coyotes, wild hares, flocks of sandhill cranes, two sweet Morgan Horses, an assortment of chickens and visitors seeking peace, nature, wildlife, pristine beaches, in a real Alaska, non touristy setting. This property has three different types accommodations: Rustic, cozy cabins, a big field for tent campers, and a few spaces reserved for 4 wheel drive vans, and small vehicle camping, including rooftop tents If you prefer camping away from the tourist crowds, you will find our soft clover meadows and well kept lawns, a deluxe and memorable experience. The beach is a short walk down the trail, where its peaceful and private, with only the sound of the seagulls and waves. Van campers have a few special areas to park their vehicles, with views of the glaciers and mountains. There is limited parking and turnaround space, and we like our farm not too crowded, to provide a special rural experience to all who visit. It helps to call or text before you arrive to make sure we are on site and can help you with parking! There are three cabins sprinkled throughout the property. Two are off grid, close to the beach, private and magical, with wood stoves. All cabins are able to use the main farm lodge amenities, just a few minutes walk away but have their own outhouses, all with amazing views! You can walk on the beach from the main lodge parking area, there is a covered camping pavilion available to all guests, a communal campfire spot and bbq grill, lovely maintained walking trails and meadows, and even wifi! We allow most dogs, but ask you to contact us before booking with us, so we can let you know our rules before you travel. All dogs must be well behaved, social, on leashes and at owner's side at all times to protect our trusting wildlife from accidental harm, like our baby pheasants, moose, bunnies, and songbird nests!
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Howling Wolf Resort

9. Howling Wolf Resort

70%
(10)
Seward, AK · 17 sites · RVs, Lodging
Enjoy glamping in Seward, Alaska at Howling Wolf Resort—where comfort meets the outdoors. Nestled in beautiful wilderness, it’s the perfect spot for both first-time campers and seasoned adventurers. No experience needed—just come ready to relax, explore, and enjoy a cozy stay in nature.
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Full hookups
Tongass National Forest

10. Tongass National Forest

86%
(14)
National forest in Alaska · 351 sites
You could spend a lifetime exploring southeast Alaska's massive Tongass National Forest.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park

11. Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park

100%
(3)
State park in Alaska · 13 sites
Boat or fly out for a camping adventure in Alaska’s first state park.
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Denali State Park

12. Denali State Park

100%
(3)
State park in Alaska · 131 sites
This park acts like an extension of Denali National Park with several hundred thousand wild acres.
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Kenai River Special Management Area

13. Kenai River Special Management Area

100%
(3)
State park in Alaska · 128 sites
Discover the serene beauty of Kenai River Special Management Area.
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Native Steambath

14. Native Steambath

Wasilla, AK · 1 site · Tent, RV
(Sauna/Steam house ) This location has room for tent, RV, or even an SUV. Water, Power 110v, Internet available. You can book one of the four cabins we have on the property that has full amenities to feel right at home. Feel refreshed when you use this rare gem. This is a handcrafted Authentic Native Alaskan steam Bath. Same as the ones used in the native villages of Alaska. Come alive as the heat soothes you and drives the aches and pains out of your body. Let the heat restore you.
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Full hookups
Kyllonen's RV Park

15. Kyllonen's RV Park

88%
(4)
Anchor Point, AK · 21 sites · Tents, RVs
Kyllonen's RV Park is located directly at the mouth of the world-famous Anchor River in Anchor Point. Enjoy a front row seat to the best that Alaska has to offer, with saltwater and freshwater fishing right at our doorstep and views of the Cook Inlet volcanoes. The area is famous not only for the fishing, but also for the animal watching, with bald eagles and moose being daily visitors. Kyllonen's RV Park is the most westerly RV Park in North America and has been providing the authentic Alaskan vacation experience since 1984. ​ All campsites have full hook-ups, including 30-amp power, water, and a septic dump. Also, firepits, picnic tables, and Starlink Wi-Fi are included at each site. ​ The bathhouse and Laundry facility have been completely renovated for the 2026 season. ​ Showers are coin-operated, and Laundry is a small fee. ​​ ​Fish cleaning station available, located behind the bathhouse. ​ A few customers have brought it to our attention that older Rand McNally Road Atlases show a height restriction on the way to our park. This is outdated and no longer the case. Rest assured, you will be able to reach our park with no problem, no matter your rig size.
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Full hookups
The Dacha

16. The Dacha

100%
(5)
Sitka, AK · 1 site
Remote 350 square foot cabin with Jotul woodstove and loft, with a review of Warm Springs Bay. The cabin is a quarter mile from the forest warm springs, and 100 yards down the boardwalk from the baths. Fully equipped with bathroom and cold water, a kayak, fishing rods, a generator and solar. There is a covered deck we use as a kitchen. Please be advised: access only by hiking, floatplane, or boat. Propane lights give heat and illumination. Great fishing for salmon in bay and cutthroat in lake. This is about as remote as it gets! There are no stores, no gas, and brown bears are a concern. Welcome to the most beautiful place on earth.
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Creekside Campground

17. Creekside Campground

98%
(49)
Willow, AK · 8 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a small, family-run campground in the heart of Willow, AK just off the Parks Highway FEATURING 🔌Electric - 30 and 50 amp 💧 Water fill up available from our well 🌳 Gravel and natural forest sites both suitable for RVs or tents 🔥 Picnic tables and fire pits at each site 🚿 Shower house with toilet and hot water shower 🏞️ A relaxing, babbling creek 🐾 Minutes away from downtown Willow, including the start of the Iditarod and the entrance to Hatcher Pass. We have fresh cut firewood available for purchase. Our family lives on site and is available for anything you may need during your stay.
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Sven's Basecamp Hostel

18. Sven's Basecamp Hostel

80%
(15)
Fairbanks, AK · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging
Sven's Basecamp Hostel is a small hostel that's open to campers and travelers from all over the world. It is owned and run by Sven, who came to Alaska from Switzerland when he was 21. He has run the hostel for 9+ years now and loves meeting people traveling to Alaska! Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent in our on-property forest! We have unlimited space for campers, and can't wait to meet you and hear your stories. We are a traveler's hostel with plenty of room for tent campers, so expect to meet people from all over the world. You will have access to 3 flush toilets, a sink area, coin-operated showers (25 cents per minute), a full kitchen with a stove, microwave, and refrigerators, and a community fire pit.
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Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

19. Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

97%
(30)
Homer, AK · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
A few things that make my place unique: My 5 acres is part of the famous 620-acre Kilcher Homestead, as seen on “Alaska the Last Frontier” TV show. I am the 7th of the 8 children; Atz and Otto are my brothers. There is a special feeling here vibrating in the land, and why our parents picked this spot. Full outdoor kitchen with all you need to cook and wash up; BBQ, hotplate, pure drinking water, spices, pots/pans/dishes etc. The atmosphere feels so pure, so silent, so wild yet comfortable. Drive-in access sometimes, or have to walk 15 minutes, and no issues with mosquitoes!!! You get to meet me and maybe other family members as you cruise around. Homer is 35 minutes away, with oodles of things to do there: great restaurants, a lap pool, fun shopping, etc. We have quite good cell reception here. Lots of options to enjoy your stay!
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The Farmhouse atTaiga Tooth

20. The Farmhouse atTaiga Tooth

93%
(7)
Talkeetna, AK · 2 sites
TALKEETNA, ALASKA Overlooking Christiansen Lake. 7K (4.4 miles) from Talkeetna shops and dining. Upstairs suite with spacious balcony. This room contains a king bed. The private bath boasts large glass shower stall and deep bathtub. His n hers vanity. Walk in closet. Ground floor; large suite with private entrance onto porch and fields. There is one queen bed. Private bath with shower. The sitting room has a glass front wood burning stove for a cosy evening by the fire. Either suite is accessed from the main floor. On this floor, the kitchen, sitting room, dining area and balcony are available to our guests 24/7. Parking is available by the entrance. We also have two primitive cabins. Wood stoves. No plumbing. Guests must come fully equipped. We also have a one bedroom cabin, with all services. All cabins have adjacent parking. Two cabins have pull thru parking for pickup/trailer combinations. Our semi remote properties have camping options available in season. Adults only, preferred. No pets. We have dogs and farm animals on the property. Our shorefront and small float serve for swimming, fishing, or launching a canoe. Fly in guests may tie up at the float. Christiansen’s crystal clear waters provide wonderful fishing for rainbow and steelhead all summer, and through the ice in winter. Additional fishing, swimming and hiking is just down the road at our chain of lakes park - a good place for birding and berry picking. Cross country skiing possibilities are endless in winter. There are many back country trails, promising a true wilderness experience to off roaders whether on foot, on a bike, or atv. Unlimited camping is pemitted backpackers on Alaska State Lands. In season, guests may also reserve walk in camping on our semi remote properties. Tents, camp supplies and firewood may be set up for your adventure. Always be aware of fire danger. All fire danger warnings and restrictions are posted regularly and are mandatory!
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Alaska camping guide

Where to go

Bristol Bay

Bristol Bay is an expansive region with massive lakes, huge ocean bays and wild rivers. It’s known for abundant salmon runs that draw anglers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world. Visit Katmai National Park and Preserve to watch bears catch salmon on Brooks Falls or fish for salmon and giant rainbow trout on the mighty Kvichak River. Lake Iliamna and the rivers in this area offer incredible fishing, sightseeing and boating.

Kenai Peninsula

Some areas in Alaska are road accessible, making them perfect for camping and exploring at your own pace. The Kenai Peninsula is one of those special places where you can experience the best of Alaska from RV sites and tent camping areas at private and public campgrounds in places like Soldotna. Go fishing on the mighty Kenai River for salmon and trout, take a cruise through the Kenai Fjords National Park, take a dog sledding tour or go hiking on the many miles of trails on this wild peninsula.

Southeast Alaska

The rugged Southeast coastline is dotted with small communities, many of which are isolated from any highway systems. Ketchikan and Juneau are two hubs to visit for access to the expansive Tongass National Forest. Prince of Wales Island has limited services but rental vehicles and island roads allow for access to go fishing and hunting in this remote area.

Denali National Park

Accessible by road system, Denali National Park leads many visitors to fly into Anchorage and rent a vehicle or RV to visit. The incredible peak is more than 20,000-feet high and the surrounding Alaska Range is absolutely stunning. If you want an unforgettable view, consider flightseeing tours to gain elevation and really get into the mountains. Moose and bear sightings are common and the trails offer a range of hiking options for visitors. This park is fantastic and is accessible for a wide range of budgets and camping styles.

Alaska is a two-season state where it’s either feeling like summer or winter. In summer, the days are long, leaving plenty of time to explore and very little darkness to help you sleep. The inverse is true during the winter months. The first snowfall, also called termination dust, typically arrives sometime in September and it coincides with rapid color changes and shorter days. Most visitors arrive during summer when the salmon are running and bush flights operate in places like Bristol Bay on regular flight schedules. Although summer is ideal for most campers, winter does have special events like dog sledding races and views of the northern lights.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Alaska, you can park your RV for free in various locations, such as pullouts, rest areas, and some public lands. It is important to respect any posted signs and regulations, as well as to practice Leave No Trace principles. Here are some nearby RV camping options in Alaska:

Keep in mind that these options may not all be free, but they provide a variety of RV camping locations in Alaska for your convenience.

In Alaska, you cannot camp anywhere, but there are vast areas of public land where you can find dispersed camping opportunities. Alaska is home to numerous campgrounds, national parks, state parks, national forests, and wilderness areas where camping is permitted. However, it's essential to follow the rules and regulations of the specific area where you plan to camp, as some locations may have restrictions or designated camping sites.

Dispersed camping is allowed on most public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the U.S. Forest Service, and the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. When camping in these areas, be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect private property, and stay at least 100 feet away from lakes and streams. Some popular destinations for camping in Alaska include fishing campsites, glamping sites, and forest campsites.

Yes, Alaska is an excellent destination for camping, offering a wide range of camping experiences from remote wilderness locations to well-maintained campgrounds. The state's vast and diverse landscape, including mountains, glaciers, forests, and coastal areas, provides an unparalleled backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular camping destinations in Alaska include Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Additionally, there are numerous state parks, national forests, and private campgrounds throughout the state to suit various camping preferences. Keep in mind that due to Alaska's northern location, the camping season is generally shorter than in other parts of the United States, with the best time to camp being from late May to early September.

Campground fees in Alaska can vary depending on the location, amenities, and type of site. On average, you can expect to pay around $10 to $25 per night for a basic tent or RV site at public campgrounds. More developed campgrounds with additional facilities and services may charge higher fees.

Yes, it is generally safe to sleep in your car in Alaska, as long as you follow certain precautions and guidelines. Make sure to park in designated camping areas or RV parks, and be aware of the weather conditions, as temperatures can drop significantly at night. It's important to have proper sleeping gear, food, and water supplies, as well as a plan for restroom facilities. Additionally, be cautious of wildlife, such as bears, and store food and scented items securely. You can find some suitable locations for car camping in Alaska on Hipcamp, such as Safety Cove, Sealion Cove, and Sunny Cove.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top state and regional parks in Alaska