Lake Camping in Alaska: Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
—
Alaska

81% (175 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alaska

Under $50

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Alaska

90%

(221)

Valdez Adventure Alliance

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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. 20 sites are available 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. 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.

Rustic Riverside Camp

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Pleasant Valley, AK

Welcome to our beautiful, private, rustic camp situated along the bank of the North Fork Chena River just 55 miles NE of Fairbanks lies the perfect camping experience just 2 miles from Chena Hot Springs Resort. We are located a 1/2mile off Chena Hot Springs Road, on the famous Yukon Quest Trail. Our camp is accessible to those exploring Alaska by vehicle, motorcycle, bike, truck camper, travel van or small RV. Come stay in one of our cute cabins, park or pitch your tent under the midnight sun – enjoy fishing, hiking, atving, berry picking, wildlife watching and more.

100%

(9)

Majestic Denali Alaska Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Cantwell, AK

Just 30 minutes away from the South Entrance to Denali National Park, this is one of the best private cabins on the Parks Highway. We are strategically located on a secluded homestead. You can see Mount McKinley on a clear day! The nearby Summit Lake is perfect for fly fishing. This is a dry cabin, so No water, no Septic. We encourage our guests to bring a couple gallons of water and some water bottle for drinking/washing hands. We do provide a camping toilet (5 gallon bucket with seat and trash bags) but you'll have to haul the bags out with you when you leave - along with your trash. Electricity is provided via a Generator that we provide - but you will need to refill the fuel at the local gas station. There is heat provided via a Fuel Oil stove. To save costs on cleaning fees - you'll be responsible to leave the cabin in as good - if not better condition than you find when you arrive. You'll need to bring your own bedding (recommend a sleeping bag) and lines/towels etc. The cabin has incredible scenery! Bring S'mores and some firewood and enjoy an Alaskan experience around the fire pit!

Booked 3 times

Historic Wharfsite at Sunrise AK

10 sites · Tents10 acres · Sunrise, AK

Learn more about this land: Sixmile Creek empties into Turnagain Arm next to this picturesque area. River rafting and fishing is nearby as well as the goldrush town of Hope just eight miles away. High tides twice a day can turn this into an island if they are over 29 feet. This property is about a half mile walk down a gold-rush era road to the wharf site of the gold rush town of Sunrise City. The buildings and tents of the approximately 10,000 miners who lived in this area are long gone. But the scenic views, peacefulness and quiet of this rugged area of south central Alaska are not soon forgotten. There are no paved trails or boardwalks. No crowds or hot dog vendors. Imagine fishing without crowds--catching pink and silver salmon or trout with awesome views of the Chugach National Forest. Don't expect amenities. This is camping outdoors in Alaska. There is a communal firepit with a portable firepit and grill that can be moved to whereever you set up your tent. Usually your group will be alone on your adventure here. There is nothing like this location anywhere else along Turnagain Arm.

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area Hideaway

10 sites · Tents5 acres · Big Lake, AK

NOTE: The place is accessible only by walking and boat on the Red Shirt Lake, there are many tracks in the park, you can follow them to go there and hike through the forest. Pitch your tent in this 5 acres piece of land located on the boundaries of the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area near Willow in Alaska. The land is located on the southern tip of "Our Lake", a small lake on the south eastern side of Red Shirt Lake. You will have a very quiet camping spot, located in front of the lake, with a creek nearby, and plenty of pikes to fish.

Talkeetna Lake Retreat

13 sites · Lodging, RVs15 acres · Talkeetna, AK

Escape the daily grind and indulge in a delightful retreat with us. Welcome to our evolving Alaskan campground and cabin rental – a work in progress that promises a unique experience. Situated on 15 acres, our property offers boat rentals and scenic cross-country walking paths. With 11 dry RV pads complemented by picnic tables, you can enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Additionally, there's a grocery store, Subway, ice cream parlor, and coffee shop within walking distance, ensuring convenience and variety during your stay. Discover more amenities that await you!

Adventure Lodge at Caswell Lakes

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Talkeetna, AK

Dry RV and tent camping Willow Alaska. Quiet wooded area with many outdoor activities nearby. Just 75 scenic miles north of Anchorage making it far enough to get away, but not too far. World famous Talkeetna is a short 30 minute drive. It is a well know tourist area for outdoor sports, zip lining, jet boat rides, fishing, biking, hiking, kayaking and more. Talkeetna is the only stepping off point for travelers attempting the Mt Denali climb. See people from around the world. Enjoy its shops, restaurants, outdoor concerts and breweries. Willow is a small community known for its friendly residents, fishing, hunting and sled dog mushers. Great scenic views of Mt Denali. Sheep Creek lodge is a few miles down the borough maintained road. Cubbys convenience store is located 10 miles up the highway. Adventure Lodge is expanding. Plans include additional RV and camping sites and cabins complete with power and water. We are excited to offer this to you!

BRIDGE CABIN at Bear Creek Lodge

1 site · Lodging2 acres · 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.

100%

(7)

Tent camping, kayaking, Alaskan fun

1 site · Tent5 acres · 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!

Living Alaska

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · AK

Saved 9 times

The Octagon at Port Protection

1 site · LodgingPort Protection, AK

After the first octagon burned in a mighty blaze, the village of Port Protection rallied to rebuild what was lost. What was built, was a mighty 8 sided dwelling fit for a king of the muskeg!!! Still in the family, the octagon is set betwixt the beautiful and mysterious Tongass National Forest and the sea. Just steps away is Keleske's 'woodin' wheel cove, an idyllic sandy pebbly sunset beach where you can launch a kayak, beach comb for ancient native american artifacts, or just lounge around with a beer in one hand or a joint in the other. Port Protection has always been cannabis friendly, and as of 2015, it was officially written into the village charter! Come and experience a place that even National Geographic couldn't pass up. Or you could just sit at home and watch the show ... its up to you!Learn more about this land:The Octagon is a rustic three-bedroom cabin with a full bath and kitchen set just steps from a beautiful, sandy sunset beach in Port Protection, Alaska. It's perfect for a family or a large group of campers. The cabin comfortably sleeps 4, but I will accept up to 8. To get a better idea of the area, check out the NatGeo show, Port Protection!

Booked 1 time

Walk-in semi remote camping

9 sites · Lodging, Tents11 acres · Talkeetna, AK

There are many back country trails, promising a true wilderness experience to off roaders whether on bike, atv, or a foot. For hikers, Possum Creek Camp, offers a remote walk-in site to pitch a tent. Learn more about this land: Monday - Thursday, available for one night stays. Friday - Sunday, minimum two night stay

Dog-friendly getaways

90%

(221)

Valdez Adventure Alliance

27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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. 20 sites are available 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. 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.

Majestic Denali Alaska Cabin

1 site · Lodging1 acre · Cantwell, AK

Just 30 minutes away from the South Entrance to Denali National Park, this is one of the best private cabins on the Parks Highway. We are strategically located on a secluded homestead. You can see Mount McKinley on a clear day! The nearby Summit Lake is perfect for fly fishing. This is a dry cabin, so No water, no Septic. We encourage our guests to bring a couple gallons of water and some water bottle for drinking/washing hands. We do provide a camping toilet (5 gallon bucket with seat and trash bags) but you'll have to haul the bags out with you when you leave - along with your trash. Electricity is provided via a Generator that we provide - but you will need to refill the fuel at the local gas station. There is heat provided via a Fuel Oil stove. To save costs on cleaning fees - you'll be responsible to leave the cabin in as good - if not better condition than you find when you arrive. You'll need to bring your own bedding (recommend a sleeping bag) and lines/towels etc. The cabin has incredible scenery! Bring S'mores and some firewood and enjoy an Alaskan experience around the fire pit!

Rustic Riverside Camp

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Pleasant Valley, AK

Welcome to our beautiful, private, rustic camp situated along the bank of the North Fork Chena River just 55 miles NE of Fairbanks lies the perfect camping experience just 2 miles from Chena Hot Springs Resort. We are located a 1/2mile off Chena Hot Springs Road, on the famous Yukon Quest Trail. Our camp is accessible to those exploring Alaska by vehicle, motorcycle, bike, truck camper, travel van or small RV. Come stay in one of our cute cabins, park or pitch your tent under the midnight sun – enjoy fishing, hiking, atving, berry picking, wildlife watching and more.

Historic Wharfsite at Sunrise AK

10 sites · Tents10 acres · Sunrise, AK

Learn more about this land: Sixmile Creek empties into Turnagain Arm next to this picturesque area. River rafting and fishing is nearby as well as the goldrush town of Hope just eight miles away. High tides twice a day can turn this into an island if they are over 29 feet. This property is about a half mile walk down a gold-rush era road to the wharf site of the gold rush town of Sunrise City. The buildings and tents of the approximately 10,000 miners who lived in this area are long gone. But the scenic views, peacefulness and quiet of this rugged area of south central Alaska are not soon forgotten. There are no paved trails or boardwalks. No crowds or hot dog vendors. Imagine fishing without crowds--catching pink and silver salmon or trout with awesome views of the Chugach National Forest. Don't expect amenities. This is camping outdoors in Alaska. There is a communal firepit with a portable firepit and grill that can be moved to whereever you set up your tent. Usually your group will be alone on your adventure here. There is nothing like this location anywhere else along Turnagain Arm.

Talkeetna Lake Retreat

13 sites · Lodging, RVs15 acres · Talkeetna, AK

Escape the daily grind and indulge in a delightful retreat with us. Welcome to our evolving Alaskan campground and cabin rental – a work in progress that promises a unique experience. Situated on 15 acres, our property offers boat rentals and scenic cross-country walking paths. With 11 dry RV pads complemented by picnic tables, you can enjoy the outdoors in comfort. Additionally, there's a grocery store, Subway, ice cream parlor, and coffee shop within walking distance, ensuring convenience and variety during your stay. Discover more amenities that await you!

Available this weekend

Booked 3 times

Historic Wharfsite at Sunrise AK

10 sites · Tents10 acres · Sunrise, AK

Learn more about this land: Sixmile Creek empties into Turnagain Arm next to this picturesque area. River rafting and fishing is nearby as well as the goldrush town of Hope just eight miles away. High tides twice a day can turn this into an island if they are over 29 feet. This property is about a half mile walk down a gold-rush era road to the wharf site of the gold rush town of Sunrise City. The buildings and tents of the approximately 10,000 miners who lived in this area are long gone. But the scenic views, peacefulness and quiet of this rugged area of south central Alaska are not soon forgotten. There are no paved trails or boardwalks. No crowds or hot dog vendors. Imagine fishing without crowds--catching pink and silver salmon or trout with awesome views of the Chugach National Forest. Don't expect amenities. This is camping outdoors in Alaska. There is a communal firepit with a portable firepit and grill that can be moved to whereever you set up your tent. Usually your group will be alone on your adventure here. There is nothing like this location anywhere else along Turnagain Arm.

The Octagon at Port Protection

1 site · LodgingPort Protection, AK

After the first octagon burned in a mighty blaze, the village of Port Protection rallied to rebuild what was lost. What was built, was a mighty 8 sided dwelling fit for a king of the muskeg!!! Still in the family, the octagon is set betwixt the beautiful and mysterious Tongass National Forest and the sea. Just steps away is Keleske's 'woodin' wheel cove, an idyllic sandy pebbly sunset beach where you can launch a kayak, beach comb for ancient native american artifacts, or just lounge around with a beer in one hand or a joint in the other. Port Protection has always been cannabis friendly, and as of 2015, it was officially written into the village charter! Come and experience a place that even National Geographic couldn't pass up. Or you could just sit at home and watch the show ... its up to you!Learn more about this land:The Octagon is a rustic three-bedroom cabin with a full bath and kitchen set just steps from a beautiful, sandy sunset beach in Port Protection, Alaska. It's perfect for a family or a large group of campers. The cabin comfortably sleeps 4, but I will accept up to 8. To get a better idea of the area, check out the NatGeo show, Port Protection!

Rustic Riverside Camp

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Pleasant Valley, AK

Welcome to our beautiful, private, rustic camp situated along the bank of the North Fork Chena River just 55 miles NE of Fairbanks lies the perfect camping experience just 2 miles from Chena Hot Springs Resort. We are located a 1/2mile off Chena Hot Springs Road, on the famous Yukon Quest Trail. Our camp is accessible to those exploring Alaska by vehicle, motorcycle, bike, truck camper, travel van or small RV. Come stay in one of our cute cabins, park or pitch your tent under the midnight sun – enjoy fishing, hiking, atving, berry picking, wildlife watching and more.

Dirksen Family Camp

2 sites · Tents42 acres · Nikiski, AK

We are remote, while only being about 10 miles from town. 42 acres of mostly untouched Alaskan wilderness with a 13 acre lake that can be accessed with 2 kayaks and a skinoo. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is our big backyard. Wildlife viewing, from ducks, loons, osprey, and cranes, to martens, moose, and even bears and wolves. Hike into the KNWR or along the power line trail.

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area Hideaway

10 sites · Tents5 acres · Big Lake, AK

NOTE: The place is accessible only by walking and boat on the Red Shirt Lake, there are many tracks in the park, you can follow them to go there and hike through the forest. Pitch your tent in this 5 acres piece of land located on the boundaries of the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area near Willow in Alaska. The land is located on the southern tip of "Our Lake", a small lake on the south eastern side of Red Shirt Lake. You will have a very quiet camping spot, located in front of the lake, with a creek nearby, and plenty of pikes to fish.

from

$20

/ night

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park

100%

(3)

Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park

Trapper Creek, Alaska

100%

(3)

Kenai River Special Management Area

Quartz Lake State Recreation Area

Big Delta, Alaska

100%

(1)

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area

Big Lake, Alaska

100%

(1)

Black Sands Beach State Marine Park

Saxman, Alaska

Safety Cove State Marine Park

Lowell Point, Alaska

Crooked Creek State Recreation Site

Funny River, Alaska

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

Cohoe, Alaska

Lakeside camping in Alaska guide

Overview

With miles of glacier-fringed coastline, rambling fjords and rivers, and a staggering 3 million lakes—more than any other state—campers won't have to look far to find a lakeside pitch in Alaska. Cruise into Lake Clark National Park and Preserve to hike, fish, and paddle, before snagging one of the first-come, first-served campsites, or bring your boat or kayak to the primitive campgrounds at Kenai Lake in Chugach National Forest. Late May through September provides the best weather for lake camping in Alaska, and this is prime fishing season, too. Head to Wonder Lake within the Denali National Park & Preserve, Eklutna Lake at Chugach State Park, or Iliamna Lake, Alaska's largest lake, to catch your fill of trout, salmon, and halibut. In winter, check into a cozy cabin by Mendenhall Lake and enjoy glacier hikes, dog sled rides, and ice fishing in the Tongass National Forest.