The best camping in Alaska with horseback riding

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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.

94% (245)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

1. Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

96%
(47)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Pinochle Trail Campground

2. Pinochle Trail Campground

95%
(254)
16 sites · Tents, RVs · Sutton, AK
Flat, gravel spaces at Pinochle Trailhead in Glacier View, Alaska. Great hiking, biking, ATV or snow machine on historic trail. Tents, trucks, cars, campers, RVs, dogsleds .... whatever you can fit is welcome. 8 spaces with tables and fire rings. There is also an "Open Camping Area" in back that larger groups may like. Although a number may be assigned at booking, just pick the best available camp space that works for you on arrivial. You'll need to bring your own water and keep a clean camp. Pinochle Trail goes north into the backcountry for around 12 miles and joins other trails. Pinochle trail is a section of the ancient Knik - Nelchina Trail used by natives, trappers, miners and hunters for eons. It traverses the natural route from the Matanuska Valley up and over the mountain range into Copper River country. Hicks was one of the early guides who had a cabin at Hicks Creek and served with U.S. Army Lieutenant Joseph Castner to brushwack a trail northwest for Captain Glenn in 1898. Described in his journal as at "Tale of Hardship and Suffering" they ended up eating their mules and shoes before reaching their goal far to the north. Today we use these trails with relative ease compared to the old timers but the scenery and mud holes remind us of what they went through.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

3. Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

100%
(22)
4 sites · Lodging · Homer, AK
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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Tidal Knoll Road

6. Country Squire Farm

2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Ninilchik, AK
Hello HipCamper(s), Cole here and thank you for your interest in staying at the promising site of Country Squire Farms! I'm a former biologist and educator with current aspirations to grow food for communities and to restore our small scale food networks - Your Stay Will Definitely Help in my efforts! The sites are conveniently located within walking distance of Cook Inlet beach access and Deep Creek. Take a short drive and you could find yourself at the Ninilchik River, in the heart of the historic town of Ninilchik, or just stopped at one of the many pulloff view sites to enjoy the Alaskan wonders of the area. Ninilchik hosts incoming enthusiasts every year with so much to offer throughout the season including: -Beach access (free) -Volcano viewing (free) -Moose viewing (free) -Farmers markets (free) -Boat excursions -Bear viewing -Fishing -Rodeos -Kenai Peninsula Fair -Salmonfest music festival (Aug 2-4) -Sacred Acre music festival (Sep 6-8) Homer (~45 minute drive south) is one of the larger cities in the area. It has the CLOSEST domestic AIRPORT. Homer is a lively, faster paced, and stunning neighbor with many modern conveniences and tons of epic experiences to find near the bay. Kenai (~55 minute drive north) is another large city in the area and also has a domestic AIRPORT. Kenai along with neighboring Soldotna host lots of events including farmers markets, concerts, and live sporting events. All proceeds will be managed by Agrarian Cooperative; my personal business I formed in the summer of 2023 to create and support more private food vendors and farmers markets on the Kenai Peninsula. You will enjoy the simple pleasures and solitude in a peaceful coastal town while also supporting small scale farmers and local business. Please reach out to me with any questions you may have about transportation, upcoming local events, or other questions in regards to Country Squire Farms. Or feel free to just leave a message if you're interested in supporting my efforts!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night
Klondike RV Park

9. Klondike RV Park

37 sites · Soldotna, AK
Discover the charm of Klondike RV Park, a unique family-owned and operated destination just one block from the stunning Kenai River and a mere five minutes from downtown Soldotna on the beautiful Kenai Peninsula. This prime location is renowned for its exceptional salmon fishing, including the world-famous King Salmon caught by Les Anderson in 1985. Join us from May to August to experience the thrill of fishing for Kings, Sockeye, Pinks, and Coho salmon. Our RV park features 35 spacious sites, each equipped with full hookups, accommodating big rigs up to 60 feet long, complete with slide-outs and 50 amp service. To secure your reservation, a 50% deposit is required, with the remaining balance due upon your arrival. For those traveling with friends or family, we offer a fully equipped cottage that comfortably accommodates up to four guests. This cozy retreat includes a kitchen, BBQ, freezer, and washroom facilities. Please note that our rental cottage is a smoke-free and pet-free environment, ensuring a clean and pleasant stay for all guests. Experience the beauty of the Kenai Peninsula and create lasting memories at Klondike RV Park!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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.

94% (245)

Top-rated campgrounds

Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

1. Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

96%
(47)
7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$35
 / night
Pinochle Trail Campground

2. Pinochle Trail Campground

95%
(254)
16 sites · Tents, RVs · Sutton, AK
Flat, gravel spaces at Pinochle Trailhead in Glacier View, Alaska. Great hiking, biking, ATV or snow machine on historic trail. Tents, trucks, cars, campers, RVs, dogsleds .... whatever you can fit is welcome. 8 spaces with tables and fire rings. There is also an "Open Camping Area" in back that larger groups may like. Although a number may be assigned at booking, just pick the best available camp space that works for you on arrivial. You'll need to bring your own water and keep a clean camp. Pinochle Trail goes north into the backcountry for around 12 miles and joins other trails. Pinochle trail is a section of the ancient Knik - Nelchina Trail used by natives, trappers, miners and hunters for eons. It traverses the natural route from the Matanuska Valley up and over the mountain range into Copper River country. Hicks was one of the early guides who had a cabin at Hicks Creek and served with U.S. Army Lieutenant Joseph Castner to brushwack a trail northwest for Captain Glenn in 1898. Described in his journal as at "Tale of Hardship and Suffering" they ended up eating their mules and shoes before reaching their goal far to the north. Today we use these trails with relative ease compared to the old timers but the scenery and mud holes remind us of what they went through.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$30
 / night
Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

3. Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

100%
(22)
4 sites · Lodging · Homer, AK
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!
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Tidal Knoll Road

6. Country Squire Farm

2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Ninilchik, AK
Hello HipCamper(s), Cole here and thank you for your interest in staying at the promising site of Country Squire Farms! I'm a former biologist and educator with current aspirations to grow food for communities and to restore our small scale food networks - Your Stay Will Definitely Help in my efforts! The sites are conveniently located within walking distance of Cook Inlet beach access and Deep Creek. Take a short drive and you could find yourself at the Ninilchik River, in the heart of the historic town of Ninilchik, or just stopped at one of the many pulloff view sites to enjoy the Alaskan wonders of the area. Ninilchik hosts incoming enthusiasts every year with so much to offer throughout the season including: -Beach access (free) -Volcano viewing (free) -Moose viewing (free) -Farmers markets (free) -Boat excursions -Bear viewing -Fishing -Rodeos -Kenai Peninsula Fair -Salmonfest music festival (Aug 2-4) -Sacred Acre music festival (Sep 6-8) Homer (~45 minute drive south) is one of the larger cities in the area. It has the CLOSEST domestic AIRPORT. Homer is a lively, faster paced, and stunning neighbor with many modern conveniences and tons of epic experiences to find near the bay. Kenai (~55 minute drive north) is another large city in the area and also has a domestic AIRPORT. Kenai along with neighboring Soldotna host lots of events including farmers markets, concerts, and live sporting events. All proceeds will be managed by Agrarian Cooperative; my personal business I formed in the summer of 2023 to create and support more private food vendors and farmers markets on the Kenai Peninsula. You will enjoy the simple pleasures and solitude in a peaceful coastal town while also supporting small scale farmers and local business. Please reach out to me with any questions you may have about transportation, upcoming local events, or other questions in regards to Country Squire Farms. Or feel free to just leave a message if you're interested in supporting my efforts!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$34
 / night
Klondike RV Park

9. Klondike RV Park

37 sites · Soldotna, AK
Discover the charm of Klondike RV Park, a unique family-owned and operated destination just one block from the stunning Kenai River and a mere five minutes from downtown Soldotna on the beautiful Kenai Peninsula. This prime location is renowned for its exceptional salmon fishing, including the world-famous King Salmon caught by Les Anderson in 1985. Join us from May to August to experience the thrill of fishing for Kings, Sockeye, Pinks, and Coho salmon. Our RV park features 35 spacious sites, each equipped with full hookups, accommodating big rigs up to 60 feet long, complete with slide-outs and 50 amp service. To secure your reservation, a 50% deposit is required, with the remaining balance due upon your arrival. For those traveling with friends or family, we offer a fully equipped cottage that comfortably accommodates up to four guests. This cozy retreat includes a kitchen, BBQ, freezer, and washroom facilities. Please note that our rental cottage is a smoke-free and pet-free environment, ensuring a clean and pleasant stay for all guests. Experience the beauty of the Kenai Peninsula and create lasting memories at Klondike RV Park!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping in Alaska with horseback riding 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.