Lake Camping in Alaska: Best Lake Campsites 2024

United States
—
Alaska

78% (240 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alaska

Under $50

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Alaska

91%

(309)

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.

Grizzly Annie’s, bunk beds

9 sites · Lodging11 acres · Talkeetna, AK

Grizzly Annie’s Cabin, has an arctic entry, small sitting and eating area, gallery kitchen with stove, microwave, air fryer, refrigerator. The bathroom has toilet, sink, shower. On demand hot water. There is a washer and a dryer (fee). The bunk beds are in a tiny nook. There is one other room, staff quarters. There are many back country trails, promising a true wilderness experience to off roaders whether on foot, on a bike, or atv. Our dock is a good place to launch small craft. A paved bike trail connects to Talkeetna or the Parks Highway. Monday - Thursday, available for one night stays. Friday - Sunday, minimum two night stay

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. We are a seasonal camp Open May 23, 2024 - August 16, 2024.

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!

Denali's Doorstep Dry Camping 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 camping cabins on the Parks Highway! Strategically located on a secluded homestead from the 1960s, you'll be able to see Mount McKinley on a clear day! The nearby Summit Lake is perfect for fly fishing and local hiking trails are accessible right from the front door. We've got a couple kayaks for rent if you'd like to explore the local lake. Experience a TRUE Alaskan living experience in this DRY cabin with Modern touches. Since there's no interior running water or septic system, we encourage our guests to bring a couple gallons of water and some water bottles 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 be responsible for refilling the fuel you use (Vitus Gas station 5 minutes from the cabin). 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 it when you arrive. We practice "Leave No Trace" principles. Since we don't charge a cleaning fee, you'll also need to bring your own bedding (recommend a sleeping bag) and linens/towels etc. If you're flying in to Anchorage we recommend you stop in at the local Walmart and buy a cheap sleeping bag to carry with you on your journey throughout the state. The cost of a cheap sleeping bag and/or linen set is less than a typical cleaning fee. Trust us, the extra work to enjoy this cabin is worth it! It has the most INCREDIBLE scenery! Bring some dry firewood for S'mores at the fire pit and enjoy an Alaskan experience at Denali's Doorstep!

Adventure Lodge at Caswell Lakes

4 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Talkeetna, AK

Quiet camping close to Parks Highway. Located off mile post 88 at Caswell Lakes/Sheep Creek. Perfect location- far enough away from the world but close to spectacular activities and sites. Just one hour and forty-five minutes north of Anchorage and thirty minutes south of world-famous Talkeetna. We offer RV and Tent camping. Choose a spot on level and compact gravel or plush grass(tents). We provide water to fill your rv tanks or water containers and electric. Gravel area can support up to 3 class B and smaller rv’s while grass area can support many tents. Plenty of parking. Great for large parties. We are still expanding and updating services. Amenities: WIFI Fire pit Pet friendly ATV friendly Picnic table 110v plug in 110v plug in Folding chairs Fire extinguisher 30amp rv plug in 1. 5 hours to Anchorage Locking driveway gate Lots of free cut firewood. 2.5 hours to Denali Natl Park Charcoal grill (bring charcoal!) Minutes to Montana creek freshwater fishing Close to several lakes for fishing and kayaking Minutes to Kashwitna Landing, Montana Creek, and Talkeetna

Booked 6 times

Alaska interior

6 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Whitestone, AK

Learn more about this land:Wooded lots for rough camping Privacy easy to get in and out near the river and lakes for a good fishing boating canoeing kayaking mushroom hunting is our specialty

Booked 1 time

Wildwood Cabin

4 sites · Lodging2 acres · Palmer, AK

Welcome to Wildwood! Discover rustic tranquility at our waterfront cabin. Enjoy private access to the lake & pond. Miles of trails mere steps away, offer limitless opportunity for land based recreational activities like ATV-ing. Room for extra tents, TT, or Campers. 15 mins from downtown Palmer, it's a serene escape w/ the comfort knowing modern conveniences are still nearby. Kayaks & paddleboards, life vests provided. Larger events, upon approval. Fees may apply over 4 people, dog friendly.

Eagle Shadow Campground

19 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Hyder, AK

Experience the beauty of Alaska at Eagle Shadow Campground in Hyder, Alaska. Here you can explore Southeast Alaska at its finest! We are the closest campground to the major attractions in our area! We are a family owned and operated, fully functioning campground. We offer a range of sites from open to wooded, and Full Hookup, Water and Electric, or Just Water sites. At Eagle Shadow Campground, we strive to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere suitable for families seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Booked 6 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.

Kayak In, Backcountry Yurt Camp

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Crown Point, AK

We offer overnight stays in an Alaskan made backcountry yurt located on stunning Grant Lake, a 1 mile kayak and 1 mile hike from Moose Pass, Alaska. Moose Pass is an hour and a half South of Anchorage, just 30 miles from Seward and Kenai Fjords National Park. Access to the yurt requires boating to the trailhead. It's not for everyone, as it does require basic backcounty knowledge, preparedness for potential wildlife encounters and an ability to kayak and pack your own equipment in and out of the area. However, if you're comfortable with that, we are able to provide certain gear if you just aren't travelling with your personal equipment. Once at camp, our overnight yurt guests have included access to our kayaks for paddling around Grant Lake from the designated time of Check-In until the time of Check-Out each day. The yurt sleeps up to five guests in one double and three twin beds. There is a coleman stove up at camp with some basic pots and pans, a cast iron woodstove and a nice handmade spruce table for a good game of cards or some board games.

100%

(2)

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.

Dog-friendly getaways

91%

(309)

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. We are a seasonal camp Open May 23, 2024 - August 16, 2024.

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

4 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Talkeetna, AK

Quiet camping close to Parks Highway. Located off mile post 88 at Caswell Lakes/Sheep Creek. Perfect location- far enough away from the world but close to spectacular activities and sites. Just one hour and forty-five minutes north of Anchorage and thirty minutes south of world-famous Talkeetna. We offer RV and Tent camping. Choose a spot on level and compact gravel or plush grass(tents). We provide water to fill your rv tanks or water containers and electric. Gravel area can support up to 3 class B and smaller rv’s while grass area can support many tents. Plenty of parking. Great for large parties. We are still expanding and updating services. Amenities: WIFI Fire pit Pet friendly ATV friendly Picnic table 110v plug in 110v plug in Folding chairs Fire extinguisher 30amp rv plug in 1. 5 hours to Anchorage Locking driveway gate Lots of free cut firewood. 2.5 hours to Denali Natl Park Charcoal grill (bring charcoal!) Minutes to Montana creek freshwater fishing Close to several lakes for fishing and kayaking Minutes to Kashwitna Landing, Montana Creek, and Talkeetna

Denali's Doorstep Dry Camping 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 camping cabins on the Parks Highway! Strategically located on a secluded homestead from the 1960s, you'll be able to see Mount McKinley on a clear day! The nearby Summit Lake is perfect for fly fishing and local hiking trails are accessible right from the front door. We've got a couple kayaks for rent if you'd like to explore the local lake. Experience a TRUE Alaskan living experience in this DRY cabin with Modern touches. Since there's no interior running water or septic system, we encourage our guests to bring a couple gallons of water and some water bottles 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 be responsible for refilling the fuel you use (Vitus Gas station 5 minutes from the cabin). 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 it when you arrive. We practice "Leave No Trace" principles. Since we don't charge a cleaning fee, you'll also need to bring your own bedding (recommend a sleeping bag) and linens/towels etc. If you're flying in to Anchorage we recommend you stop in at the local Walmart and buy a cheap sleeping bag to carry with you on your journey throughout the state. The cost of a cheap sleeping bag and/or linen set is less than a typical cleaning fee. Trust us, the extra work to enjoy this cabin is worth it! It has the most INCREDIBLE scenery! Bring some dry firewood for S'mores at the fire pit and enjoy an Alaskan experience at Denali's Doorstep!

Available this weekend

Booked 6 times

Alaska interior

6 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Whitestone, AK

Learn more about this land:Wooded lots for rough camping Privacy easy to get in and out near the river and lakes for a good fishing boating canoeing kayaking mushroom hunting is our specialty

Denali's Doorstep Dry Camping 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 camping cabins on the Parks Highway! Strategically located on a secluded homestead from the 1960s, you'll be able to see Mount McKinley on a clear day! The nearby Summit Lake is perfect for fly fishing and local hiking trails are accessible right from the front door. We've got a couple kayaks for rent if you'd like to explore the local lake. Experience a TRUE Alaskan living experience in this DRY cabin with Modern touches. Since there's no interior running water or septic system, we encourage our guests to bring a couple gallons of water and some water bottles 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 be responsible for refilling the fuel you use (Vitus Gas station 5 minutes from the cabin). 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 it when you arrive. We practice "Leave No Trace" principles. Since we don't charge a cleaning fee, you'll also need to bring your own bedding (recommend a sleeping bag) and linens/towels etc. If you're flying in to Anchorage we recommend you stop in at the local Walmart and buy a cheap sleeping bag to carry with you on your journey throughout the state. The cost of a cheap sleeping bag and/or linen set is less than a typical cleaning fee. Trust us, the extra work to enjoy this cabin is worth it! It has the most INCREDIBLE scenery! Bring some dry firewood for S'mores at the fire pit and enjoy an Alaskan experience at Denali's Doorstep!

Adventure Lodge at Caswell Lakes

4 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Talkeetna, AK

Quiet camping close to Parks Highway. Located off mile post 88 at Caswell Lakes/Sheep Creek. Perfect location- far enough away from the world but close to spectacular activities and sites. Just one hour and forty-five minutes north of Anchorage and thirty minutes south of world-famous Talkeetna. We offer RV and Tent camping. Choose a spot on level and compact gravel or plush grass(tents). We provide water to fill your rv tanks or water containers and electric. Gravel area can support up to 3 class B and smaller rv’s while grass area can support many tents. Plenty of parking. Great for large parties. We are still expanding and updating services. Amenities: WIFI Fire pit Pet friendly ATV friendly Picnic table 110v plug in 110v plug in Folding chairs Fire extinguisher 30amp rv plug in 1. 5 hours to Anchorage Locking driveway gate Lots of free cut firewood. 2.5 hours to Denali Natl Park Charcoal grill (bring charcoal!) Minutes to Montana creek freshwater fishing Close to several lakes for fishing and kayaking Minutes to Kashwitna Landing, Montana Creek, and Talkeetna

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.

Grizzly Annie’s, bunk beds

9 sites · Lodging11 acres · Talkeetna, AK

Grizzly Annie’s Cabin, has an arctic entry, small sitting and eating area, gallery kitchen with stove, microwave, air fryer, refrigerator. The bathroom has toilet, sink, shower. On demand hot water. There is a washer and a dryer (fee). The bunk beds are in a tiny nook. There is one other room, staff quarters. There are many back country trails, promising a true wilderness experience to off roaders whether on foot, on a bike, or atv. Our dock is a good place to launch small craft. A paved bike trail connects to Talkeetna or the Parks Highway. Monday - Thursday, available for one night stays. Friday - Sunday, minimum two night stay

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

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(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

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

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.