The best camping near Hatcher Pass Management Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Hatcher Pass Management Area adventure.

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Discover Hatcher Pass's scenic vistas and outdoor adventures.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Hatcher Pass Management Area

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Hatcher Pass Management Area

At the end of the trail and up the left mountain side is Gold Mint Hut. A perfect getaway!

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Gold Mint Trailhead

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Hatcher Pass Management Area

Government Peak Campground

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Hatcher Pass Management Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Hatcher Pass Management Area

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Pinochle Trail Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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.

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Lulu's Glamping on the Knik River

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · 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.

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Creekside Campground

11 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Willow, AK

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 and offer a common gazebo area with a table, camp chairs, and large charcoal grill. Our family lives on site and is available for anything you may need during your stay.

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Hideaway Camp (Single Camp Spot!)

1 site · RV3 acres · Anchorage, AK

My wife and I have a single quiet spot on our peaceful wooded property on the Anchorage hillside on 3 acres. We can accommodate short duration stays of 1-4 days. We have household power and potable water available. We do NOT have an RV dump, although you can dump for free at the Holiday gas station about 10 minutes from the site. We have bear spray and bells available to loan at no charge! We have four dogs, and your quiet well behaved dogs are welcome. Depending on where you park you'll be able to access 1gb wifi from our house.

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Clean Forest type camping

40 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · 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

Jim Creek Blank Land

30 sites · RVs13 acres · Palmer, AK

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.

Booked 10 times

Talkeetna Lake Retreat

13 sites · RVs15 acres · 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, wifi work area, showers, restrooms, scenic cross-country walking paths, and an optional hot tub and or sauna add on to 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!

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Little Bear Wilderness Retreat

2 sites · Lodging13 acres · 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..

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Willow AK Glamp & Camp

2 sites · Tents4 acres · Willow, AK

You can cozy up to a nice camp fire and enjoy the peace and quiet of the woods. The property is surrounded by trees with a large gravelled area for lots of parking. We have playground equipment for kids and spaces for dogs to explore. There are lots of nice areas to go walking/exploring on site or you can get to many fantastic rivers and lakes within a few miles. The northern lights are amazing out here in the Fall.

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The Glacier Breeze

2 sites · Lodging, RVs4 acres · Palmer, AK

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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Twin Peaks Sleeps

13 sites · RVs25 acres · 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.

Booked 1 time

Birch Forest Lakes

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Houston, AK

Gravel pad with fire pits, picnic tables, tucked away in a beautiful white birch forest—a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Big fire pits perfect for roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the night sky. Surrounded by over a half dozen lakes that allow boats and floating toys, and most are great for swimming on warm, sunny days. We also have a camper on site for rent that can be seen here: https://www.airbnb.com/h/budgetcamperak Check us out on https://AlaskasBestRentals.com or Google us for more.

The best camping near Hatcher Pass Management Area guide

Overview

About

What is a “management area,” exactly? Well, it’s a mix of a whole bunch of stuff, like privately owned land and state land. So, Hatcher Pass isn’t a full-fledged state park, but there’s so much to do out here regardless of the area’s “official” status. The mountainous terrain has more than 30 lofty summits and glaciers, and it allows for all of the usual outdoor fun: hiking, camping, mountain biking, and horseback riding. But, there’s so much more to this beautiful place. You can go prospecting for gold or venture out for some blueberry picking in August and fill your bucket to the brim…and those are only two examples of what awaits you! The best part just might be the location, though—it’s less than an hour and a half away from Anchorage.

When to go

The best time to visit Hatcher Pass Management Area is during the summer months, from June to early September, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the trails are most accessible. Winter brings a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing and snowboarding, but be prepared for road closures and extreme weather conditions.

Know before you go

Check the weather forecast and road conditions before your trip, as Hatcher Pass can experience sudden changes in weather.
Be aware of wildlife in the area and store food securely to avoid attracting bears.
Some trails may be challenging; ensure you have the proper gear and are aware of your limits.
Cell service can be limited, so plan accordingly and inform someone of your travel plans.
Respect the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles and disposing of waste properly.

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