The best campgrounds in Alaska with swimming

Looking to go camping in Alaska and take a dip? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 220 options in Alaska that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect spot to cool off. Whether you prefer lakes, rivers, or even the ocean, there's a campsite waiting for you. And with an average price per night of $28 and options as low as $5, camping in Alaska won't break the bank. Need some recommendations? Check out the top campsites like Valdez Adventure Alliance (62 reviews), Magical Camping Ocean, Volcano Views (14 reviews), and The Quiet Serene Wild Wellness Farm (12 reviews). Plus, popular amenities like pets, showers, and toilets are available to make your camping experience even better. Don't forget to enjoy other activities like biking, fishing, and wind sports while you're there. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Alaska!

95% (347)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to go camping in Alaska and take a dip? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 220 options in Alaska that offer swimming, you're sure to find the perfect spot to cool off. Whether you prefer lakes, rivers, or even the ocean, there's a campsite waiting for you. And with an average price per night of $28 and options as low as $5, camping in Alaska won't break the bank. Need some recommendations? Check out the top campsites like Valdez Adventure Alliance (62 reviews), Magical Camping Ocean, Volcano Views (14 reviews), and The Quiet Serene Wild Wellness Farm (12 reviews). Plus, popular amenities like pets, showers, and toilets are available to make your camping experience even better. Don't forget to enjoy other activities like biking, fishing, and wind sports while you're there. So pack your swimsuit and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure in Alaska!

95% (347)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Valdez Adventure Alliance

90%

(411)

27 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Valdez, AK

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.

2. Twin Peaks Sleeps

100%

(4)

13 sites · RVs · Chugiak, AK

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. Talkeetna Lake Retreat

98%

(30)

13 sites · RVs · Talkeetna, AK

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!

4. The Farmhouse atTaiga Tooth

83%

(3)

10 sites · Lodging · Talkeetna, AK

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!

5. 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!

6. Magical Camping Ocean,Volcano Views

96%

(38)

2 sites · Tents · Clam Gulch, AK

Learn more about this land: This Clam Gulch 5.5 acre property offers Bluff tent camping in two locations: Campsite 1 The Meadows, a very large meadow overlooking Cook Inlet and Campsite 3 The Sweet Spot, a secluded meadow with an unbelieveable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt . Wake up and watch the surf roll in from 200' up. The only thing you will hear is birds and surf. The Site 1 The Meadows, is a very large meadow which is kept mowed. It is accessed by foot on a loop trail from the parking area (the Moose Trail) or from parking near the Pink Shed. It is close to the outdoor table and gazebo allowed for guest use. This site can accomodate three tents. Site 3 The Sweet Spot is the newest campsite. It is also accessed by the Moose Trail, and has an unbelievable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt. Have coffee and watch the sun rise. It is about 100 yards from the parking area Trails to the meadows are maintained and marked. Campers may use the gazebo, picnic table, swing, charcoal barbecue, and the granite table located on the Bluff near the Owner's cabin, next to the gazebo. Vehicles must park in designated campsite parking areas, and campers take the short walk to Site 1 or Site 3 camping meadows. There is a Porta-Potty Near the Bluff Cabin. There is also a first aid kit. Campers please bring your own water. We recommend 8 gallons for two days. Closest potable free water for refills is Rocky's in Kasilof. Volcano and ocean views to die for! This is approximately 3.5 hours from Anchorage. Clam Gulch Beach is 4 miles, Deep Creek Beach and Ninilchik Beach is 14 miles. Anchor Point and Homer are less than an hour's drive.

7. Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

100%

(10)

2 sites · Lodging · Talkeetna, AK

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..

8. Clean Forest type camping

77%

(11)

40 sites · Tents, RVs · Wasilla, AK

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

9. Alaskan wilderness campsite

100%

(10)

1 site · Tent · Big Lake, AK

This 5 acre parcel started off as raw land cover 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’s no water on site but we can grab you a few gallons if you need. You will need to have contact with the host before coming as the neighborhood is gated!

10. The Raven's Den of the Chugach

100%

(11)

1 site · Tent, RV · Tonsina, AK

As a Heli-Ski Guide in the Chugach, I found my slice of Heaven. I am excited to share it with you! Learn more about this land:Stunningly beautiful location in the heart of the Chugach Mountains ~45 miles east of Valdez, Alaska. Snow capped and glaciated mountains with active waterfalls surround this quaint valley known as the "Serendipity Homestead." Google search Mt. Billy Mitchell, Alaska, and you'll see what your campsite view will be, as this location is literally at the base of this gorgeous mountain. 2 rivers, the Tsina and Tiekel, and Stewart Creek (All glacially fed...) converge in this valley. Listen to the waterfalls cascading from the Mt. Billy Mitchell Glacier, or rapids of the 3 waterways, as you doze off to sleep. Thanks, Host, Robb Maris

Camper favorites in Alaska

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

The Farmhouse atTaiga Tooth

83%

(3)

10 sites · Lodging · Talkeetna, AK

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!

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!

Magical Camping Ocean,Volcano Views

96%

(38)

2 sites · Tents · Clam Gulch, AK

Learn more about this land: This Clam Gulch 5.5 acre property offers Bluff tent camping in two locations: Campsite 1 The Meadows, a very large meadow overlooking Cook Inlet and Campsite 3 The Sweet Spot, a secluded meadow with an unbelieveable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt . Wake up and watch the surf roll in from 200' up. The only thing you will hear is birds and surf. The Site 1 The Meadows, is a very large meadow which is kept mowed. It is accessed by foot on a loop trail from the parking area (the Moose Trail) or from parking near the Pink Shed. It is close to the outdoor table and gazebo allowed for guest use. This site can accomodate three tents. Site 3 The Sweet Spot is the newest campsite. It is also accessed by the Moose Trail, and has an unbelievable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt. Have coffee and watch the sun rise. It is about 100 yards from the parking area Trails to the meadows are maintained and marked. Campers may use the gazebo, picnic table, swing, charcoal barbecue, and the granite table located on the Bluff near the Owner's cabin, next to the gazebo. Vehicles must park in designated campsite parking areas, and campers take the short walk to Site 1 or Site 3 camping meadows. There is a Porta-Potty Near the Bluff Cabin. There is also a first aid kit. Campers please bring your own water. We recommend 8 gallons for two days. Closest potable free water for refills is Rocky's in Kasilof. Volcano and ocean views to die for! This is approximately 3.5 hours from Anchorage. Clam Gulch Beach is 4 miles, Deep Creek Beach and Ninilchik Beach is 14 miles. Anchor Point and Homer are less than an hour's drive.

Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

100%

(10)

2 sites · Lodging · Talkeetna, AK

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..

Clean Forest type camping

77%

(11)

40 sites · Tents, RVs · Wasilla, AK

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

Alaskan wilderness campsite

100%

(10)

1 site · Tent · Big Lake, AK

This 5 acre parcel started off as raw land cover 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’s no water on site but we can grab you a few gallons if you need. You will need to have contact with the host before coming as the neighborhood is gated!

The Raven's Den of the Chugach

100%

(11)

1 site · Tent, RV · Tonsina, AK

As a Heli-Ski Guide in the Chugach, I found my slice of Heaven. I am excited to share it with you! Learn more about this land:Stunningly beautiful location in the heart of the Chugach Mountains ~45 miles east of Valdez, Alaska. Snow capped and glaciated mountains with active waterfalls surround this quaint valley known as the "Serendipity Homestead." Google search Mt. Billy Mitchell, Alaska, and you'll see what your campsite view will be, as this location is literally at the base of this gorgeous mountain. 2 rivers, the Tsina and Tiekel, and Stewart Creek (All glacially fed...) converge in this valley. Listen to the waterfalls cascading from the Mt. Billy Mitchell Glacier, or rapids of the 3 waterways, as you doze off to sleep. Thanks, Host, Robb Maris

Public campgrounds in Alaska

100%

(3)

Virginia Lake Cabin

1 site · in Tongass National Forest

100%

(2)

Mendenhall Campground

69 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tongass National Forest

100%

(2)

East Florence Cabin Lookout

1 site · in Tongass National Forest

100%

(2)

Pinta Cove Shelter Lookout

2 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tongass National Forest

100%

(2)

John Muir Cabin

1 site · in Tongass National Forest

100%

(2)

Denali View North

20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Denali State Park

100%

(2)

Bings Landing Campground

36 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kenai River Special Management Area

100%

(2)

Lost Lake Campground

12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Quartz Lake State Recreation Area

100%

(1)

Auk Village Campground

11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Tongass National Forest

100%

(1)

Lower Troublesome Creek Campground

20 sites · Tents, RVs · in Denali State Park

100%

(1)

Morgan's Landing State Recreation Area

51 sites · Tents, RVs · in Kenai River Special Management Area

Dan Moller Cabin

1 site · in Tongass National Forest

Stories from the 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.

M

Marti

September 2025

36 ft Class C

With pets

2 nights at Valdez Adventure Alliance

Beautiful campground! Very quiet and the sites are nicely seperated.

Nicole

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Valdez Adventure Alliance

I love this place!! 20 minutes outside of town in the middle of nature, with beautiful mountains surrounding and a nice little lake! Campsites are decently spaced. I will keep coming back!

M

Mustafa

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Valdez Adventure Alliance

Excellent campsite, loved the views and facilities - will be back

Puppers overlooking the ridge during our hike by the lake!

A

Ashley

August 2025

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Valdez Adventure Alliance

This was an excellent camp site! Even though we had folks on both sides, it felt private because of all the trees and bushes. Bathrooms were clean and accessible, nearby water spout, and the grounds were beautiful to walk through. We even had our very people-shy dog with us without incident because it felt so secluded. Great tent spot with a firepit and picnic table. 10/10 would recommend!

Marissa

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Valdez Adventure Alliance

Great location! Peaceful, very quiet. Gets very misty and moist here so bring a canopy if you are choosing a spot that doesn’t have one! Spotted a black bear at the lake. 10/10 only 30 minutes from city of Valdez. 5 minutes from main falls pullouts!

Amber

August 2025

29 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Valdez Adventure Alliance

My husband and I have stayed at Blueberry Lake for the last few years. The reservation website has always worked well for us. We reserved months in advance and we always have our name on the board.

C

Crystal

August 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Valdez Adventure Alliance

Beautiful campsite, it was rainy so only two other campers on the campgrounds. Vault bathrooms were probably one the cleanest I’ve seen.

M

Michael

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Valdez Adventure Alliance

WAS AMAZING! Will go back. Clean Quiet and beautiful.

S

Sonja

August 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Valdez Adventure Alliance

Best part of an 8 day camping trip around south central and central Alaska. The views great and it was quiet. Good communication by host.

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

Lisbeth

August 2025

14 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Valdez Adventure Alliance

First, the campground is in such a beautiful, serene place that it makes it easy to enjoy the campground. We were lucky to have good weather most of the time, and the outhouses were well equipped and kept clean. Thank you for working to make all campers stays the best they can be!

K

Kate

August 2025

22 ft Class C

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Valdez Adventure Alliance

What a lovely campground! We had site 14 and the view from that site was spectacular. It was close to the toilets, too, but not directly across from them, so a great location all around.

R

Ruth

August 2025

18 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Valdez Adventure Alliance

Great views. Clean bathroom,nice site with fireplace and picnic table.

L

Lara

August 2025

35 ft Class A

4 nights at Valdez Adventure Alliance

Beautiful views and very quiet. The flys were really bad while we were there but we would stay again.

Thompson

August 2025

Tent

2 nights at Magical Camping Ocean,Volcano Views

The Sweet Spot was amazing! Serena was very communicative and the site was lovely. Would recommend it to anyone looking for a beautiful and quiet spot for the night.

T

Tim

August 2025

20 ft campervan

4 nights at Valdez Adventure Alliance

It was a beautiful location with plenty of privacy snd a short walk to the bathroom. Not overly buggy and we were able to cook outside.

E

Elisa

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Valdez Adventure Alliance

The campsite was very nice and well maintained! The signage was a little hard to figure out at first since it’s quite small, but other than that we had a totally seamless experience!

R

Rick

July 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at Magical Camping Ocean,Volcano Views

Serena was a super host! The campsite was as advertised, but when we got there we noticed that the Meadows site better fit our needs than the Sweet Spot and was unoccupied at the time. Serena was quick to our request to change sites and generous in accommodating our request. She also helped us with an unexpected supply shortage and saved us a long trip to the closest store. The site itself is lovely, very quiet and right next to shore so it gave us a beautiful sunrise view of Mt. Redoubt. With Serena's assistance we had a great and memorable stay!

c

cathy

July 2025

32 ft Class A

Group trip

1 night at Valdez Adventure Alliance

We loved staying at Blueberry Lake in our RV rental. The views are spectacular and the lake is very pretty. Nice and quiet at night and we enjoyed the walk along the trail by No 9 pitch. Thank you!