The best campgrounds near Whittier, Alaska with wildlife watching

Glaciers are prominent in many parts of Alaska but Whittier is a favorite for viewing multiple large glaciers from the water. The idyllic town is situated on the marine highway system with access to Prince William Sound. Having a large waterfront makes for excellent recreational opportunities in the sound. That’s not all you will find here, however. Trails into the mountains will keep you busy on land with amazing hikes and places to mountain bike, cycle, and go camping.

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Top-rated campgrounds

Glaciers are prominent in many parts of Alaska but Whittier is a favorite for viewing multiple large glaciers from the water. The idyllic town is situated on the marine highway system with access to Prince William Sound. Having a large waterfront makes for excellent recreational opportunities in the sound. That’s not all you will find here, however. Trails into the mountains will keep you busy on land with amazing hikes and places to mountain bike, cycle, and go camping.

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Top-rated campgrounds

1. Twin Peaks Sleeps

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47mi from Whittier · 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.

2. Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

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42mi from Whittier · 3 sites · Lodging · 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.

3. BRIDGE CABIN at Bear Creek Lodge

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34mi from Whittier · 1 site · Lodging · 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.

Public campgrounds near Whittier

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Williwaw Campground

7.2mi from Whittier · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chugach National Forest

Black Bear Campground

7.6mi from Whittier · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chugach National Forest

Pigot Bay Cabin

10mi from Whittier · 1 site · in Chugach National Forest

Paulson Bay Cabin

11mi from Whittier · 1 site · in Chugach National Forest

Shrode Lake Cabin

15mi from Whittier · 1 site · in Chugach National Forest

Bertha Creek Campground

20mi from Whittier · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chugach National Forest

South Esther Island Campground

20mi from Whittier · 1 site · in South Esther Island State Marine Park

Harrison Lagoon Cabin

21mi from Whittier · 1 site · in Chugach National Forest

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Granite Creek Campground

22mi from Whittier · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chugach National Forest

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Crow Pass Cabin

25mi from Whittier · 1 site · in Chugach National Forest

Coeur D'Alene Campground

30mi from Whittier · 6 sites · in Chugach National Forest

Tenderfoot Creek Campground

30mi from Whittier · 35 sites · Tents, RVs · in Chugach National Forest

Stories from the community

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Kimberley

July 2025

2 nights at Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

It was a nice place. Very quiet and relaxing. The view from the deck was perfect. The only thing I’d recommend is maybe adding a sign or something similar at the end of the driveway so it stands out a bit. It took me a few minutes to find it.

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Nicholas

July 2025

2 nights at BRIDGE CABIN at Bear Creek Lodge

We loved the cozy cabin, the wood fired cook stove, the beautiful river right next to it, and all of the very helpful kind staff, would stay there again and again if we could! Sauna was an especially nice feature after rafting six mile river. No running water or working stove other than wood fired one, be ready to go back in time a bit, but everything you need is just over the bridge at the main cafe building

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Robert

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

I loved having a stream nearby to hear water in the morning or whenever.i would definitely stay here again and in future.

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Robert

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

Ambient water running nearby mountain scene quite and cozy. Would definitely stay here again

Magalie

July 2025

2 nights at Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

The host was very welcoming, the cabin was really nice, clean and beautiful. 20 min walk from south fork valley trail!

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Valerie

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Darell B.’s Magical Mountain

We were absolutely thrilled with Darell’s cabin. It was so cute and cozy with everything needed to make for a comfortable stay. It has a great view and the hosts are incredibly accommodating. They allowed us to use their personal grill when we arrived because the city had a burn ban put into effect the day we arrived and we couldn’t cook over the fire pit. They also allow dogs and even put a towel to dry our lab off with before we brought her inside. We will definitely be returning in the future.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Chugach National Forest

Tatitlek, Alaska

South Esther Island State Marine Park

Other options near Whittier

Stoney Creek RV Park

48mi from Whittier · 87 sites · Seward, AK

Discover Seward's only luxury RV park, a unique retreat nestled in a stunning natural setting that offers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure. Located on 15 picturesque acres just 6 miles north of the vibrant downtown Seward, our full-service park provides an ideal sanctuary after a day filled with fishing, sightseeing, and exploring the breathtaking Alaskan wilderness. At our park, you can unwind and enjoy a variety of amenities designed for your convenience and relaxation. Take advantage of our satellite TV, stroll along the serene creek, or gather around a campfire in designated areas. Our facilities include hot showers and laundry services, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Each of our spacious sites is 30 feet wide, providing ample room for slide-outs and parking your vehicle. Most sites are at least 50 feet long and come equipped with power (including some 50 amp options), water, and satellite TV. With 68 sites featuring sewer connections, we can easily accommodate larger RVs. For those seeking a cozy atmosphere, our creekside sites include fire pits, perfect for enjoying evenings under the stars. Experience the beauty of Seward while enjoying the luxury and tranquility of our RV park, where adventure and relaxation await you.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best camping near Whittier with wildlife watching guide

Where to go

Alaskan Glaciers

Take a glacier cruise to really see the numerous glaciers up close. You can visit an astounding twenty-six glaciers in the sound on a single trip. While cruising the glaciers, you can also see marine life and forested mountains between the ice. If you want a truly unique glacier viewing experience, consider a jet ski tour that combines a thrilling ride through the sound with glacier viewing. You get an up-close and intimate experience from a jet ski.

Prince William Sound

Hit the water in Prince William Sound on a sea kayak and paddle quietly through the wilderness. The sound is full of quiet coves and bays to explore and paddling is a great way to see the marine life up without a motor. Grabbing a motorized boat tour is also fantastic and you might even consider fishing in the sound. Charter boats are available and they catch some very large halibut in this area.

Whittier Area Hiking Trails

Hiking trails are convenient to town with a variety of skill levels available. Beginner friendly hikes still afford magnificent views and steep climbs test the limits of experienced hikers. Portage Pass Trail is a local favorite and it climbs to a great lookout over the bay. The Blackstone Bay Vista Trailhead is a difficult climb but the big views of a massive area are very rewarding. The Emerald Cove Trail is another great option and you can fish or paddle the area as well.

When to go

Whittier is accessed by road via Anchorage, train or water and it has year-round adventure. Summer is the best season to visit for nice weather, great fishing and opportunities to paddle, boat, hike and really dig into the nature in the region. Cruise ships stop in Whittier and you can expect an influx of summer visitors. If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting in the fall as the days shorten. The vibrant night sky makes for nice fall visits. Winter has low crowds and short days but you can still enjoy the harbor and have many of the best places to yourself.