Discover the best river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Alaska

United States
—
Alaska

92% (394 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Alaska

Under $50

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds in Alaska

91%

(222)

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.

Pinochle Trail Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Sutton Alpine, 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.

North 40 Stays

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Sutton, AK

Camp right on the banks of the Matanuska river while staring at the magnificent King Mountain, Pinnacle mountain, and Craig Mountain! Over 10 acres with only 5 camp sites! Close to Kings river and some of the best ATV trails in the State! The Matanuska river offers some of the best rock hounding in the area and when the river is low, kids love playing in the shallow river streams and sandbars! This is an adult, kids and dogs dream play area! Come relax and get away from the busyness of life!!

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.

The Coop Camp

4 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Nenana, AK

Nearly five acres surrounded by pristine Alaska-state land, and within short trekking distance of the famous Nenana river. Toghotthele mountain stands nearby, with some impressive hiking trails to be explored! The Tanana River is in short driving distance (3 miles) of the Coop Camp, as is shopping, a cultural museum and historical centers.

Haines River Camp

4 sites · Tents6 acres · Haines, AK

We have owned this property since 1996 and have found it to be a special healing place and have now decided to share it with other special people. It is approximately 6 acres on the Chilkat river, with about 1200 feet of river frontage. The Cathedral Peaks are directly across the river from the property, which has southern exposure and each campsite has sunset views. All the salmon species swim up the river. The subject property has nursery streams for the salmon. They do not spawn here, but the fry come from upstream spawning grounds to grow up a bit before heading out to the ocean. Swans nest in a nearby pond and sometimes play in the river out front. Evenings and nights are quite and peaceful

94%

(9)

Stump Creek B&B

3 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Eureka Roadhouse, AK

The property at this location is very special to us because my grandfather homesteaded here in the 60s and it’s still in the family. This location was his and his wife’s main home of living where they made this homestead and rented cabins and had a little store to produce extra income to raise their family.

100%

(10)

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 stop by the local gas station to pick up 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 need to refill the fuel you use 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. We practice the "Leave No Trace" principles. Since we don't have a local cleaning team in place, 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. It will be about the same cost as a typical cleaning fee. Trust us, the extra work to enjoy this cabin is worth it! It has the most INCREDIBLE scenery! Bring S'mores and some firewood for the fire pit and enjoy an Alaskan experience at Denali's Doorstep!

Sled Dogs & Gold Mining

6 sites · RVs, Tents43 acres · Talkeetna, AK

Your campsite (RV or tent) will be nestled in between birch trees and you’ll be lulled to sleep by the howls of sled dogs and the dream of striking it rich. Campsite includes a 2 Hour Historical Mushing and Mining Tour at 10am the following day where you will meet a few of our 44 sled dogs, who we call “Rock Stars” and learn about Mushing, the state sport of Alaska, from a family of Mushers. You will also learn about past mining in the area and pan for your own gold, and keep what you find. Lush green ferns grow beside a quiet creek where a nature path winds through the woods, amongst berry bushes, that you can walk on. There is a communal bonfire depending on weather conditions, provided by the host. New outhouses will be constructed before the opening of June camping, We still have a lot of snow currently and more photos will be taken once it melts. This is an authentic Alaskan experience that may have you wanting to come back in the winter to go mushing with us!

79%

(14)

Klutina River Campsites & Cabins

17 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Copper Center, AK

This is a 10-acre property along the edge of the north bank of the Klutina River--a major king salmon-fishing stream that flows into the famous Copper River just one half mile downriver. That part of the property used for camping along the river is 3 acres. This is a SEASONAL location: Memorial Weekend through Labor Day Weekend with NEW LOWER prices. At this time only the riverside sites (south side of the river dike that one drives across) are available for camping or RV parking. We have no power or other hook-ups on the riverside except that water is available on site through a series of new DEC-approved pipe and spigets, along with more fire pits and more picnic tables. Showers are extra @ $5.00 a person; Laundry tokens: $3.00 per washer load or 40 minute dryer load. Bar on site. Food service coming later THIS 2024 season. WIFI is only on the north side of the dike near any of the overnight rooms or the bar. We recommend no RVs to exceed 28 feet on the river side of the dike. Very private sites and spread out--far more so than other nearby locations. The public restroom is on the north side of the dike. AND we have several budget rooms available on the north side of the dike as well. In 2024, these go for about $100/night. These all have Dish Net, WIFI, and coffee in the rooms. This property is undergoing development. There is still a fire pit on the river side, as we have considerable brush to burn (not during the camping season, but brush is typically piled on the site about the time we open). Just to the east, across the Copper River, is the 12 million acre Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Our property is conveniently located in driving time almost exactly halfway between Anchorage and McCarthy-Kennecott. It is about 3 1/2 hours in either direction. At the Klutina you can charter a sight-seeing river boat or you can white-water raft from a point several miles up a historic trail that follows the river to its source--Klutina Lake and Klutina Glacier. You can obtain a visitors' license and fish here for salmon. You can also hike along the dike or numerous trails in the area.

100%

(13)

Kilcher Homestead MiracleMeadow

6 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · 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. Outdoor hot shower and outhouse with great views! 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!

100%

(4)

The Raven's Den of the Chugach

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · 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

Available this weekend

100%

(10)

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 stop by the local gas station to pick up 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 need to refill the fuel you use 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. We practice the "Leave No Trace" principles. Since we don't have a local cleaning team in place, 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. It will be about the same cost as a typical cleaning fee. Trust us, the extra work to enjoy this cabin is worth it! It has the most INCREDIBLE scenery! Bring S'mores and some firewood for the fire pit and enjoy an Alaskan experience at Denali's Doorstep!

Pinochle Trail Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Sutton Alpine, 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.

Stump Creek B&B

3 sites · Lodging, Tents10 acres · Eureka Roadhouse, AK

The property at this location is very special to us because my grandfather homesteaded here in the 60s and it’s still in the family. This location was his and his wife’s main home of living where they made this homestead and rented cabins and had a little store to produce extra income to raise their family.

North 40 Stays

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Sutton, AK

Camp right on the banks of the Matanuska river while staring at the magnificent King Mountain, Pinnacle mountain, and Craig Mountain! Over 10 acres with only 5 camp sites! Close to Kings river and some of the best ATV trails in the State! The Matanuska river offers some of the best rock hounding in the area and when the river is low, kids love playing in the shallow river streams and sandbars! This is an adult, kids and dogs dream play area! Come relax and get away from the busyness of life!!

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.

Dog-friendly getaways

93%

(15)

North 40 Stays

5 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Sutton, AK

Camp right on the banks of the Matanuska river while staring at the magnificent King Mountain, Pinnacle mountain, and Craig Mountain! Over 10 acres with only 5 camp sites! Close to Kings river and some of the best ATV trails in the State! The Matanuska river offers some of the best rock hounding in the area and when the river is low, kids love playing in the shallow river streams and sandbars! This is an adult, kids and dogs dream play area! Come relax and get away from the busyness of life!!

The Coop Camp

4 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Nenana, AK

Nearly five acres surrounded by pristine Alaska-state land, and within short trekking distance of the famous Nenana river. Toghotthele mountain stands nearby, with some impressive hiking trails to be explored! The Tanana River is in short driving distance (3 miles) of the Coop Camp, as is shopping, a cultural museum and historical centers.

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.

Pinochle Trail Campground

9 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Sutton Alpine, 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.

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

The gentle trail hugs the water’s edge for a mile upstream, continuing over a small wood bridge and returns in the same fashion on the other side. Look up to spot wildlife in the rocky outcrops on both sides of the valley.

100%

(35)

Denali National Park & Preserve

Petersville, Alaska

Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park

100%

(3)

Kachemak Bay State Park and State Wilderness Park

Trapper Creek, Alaska

Hatcher Pass Management Area

Fishhook, Alaska

100%

(2)

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Fox, Alaska

100%

(1)

Caines Head State Recreation Area

Lowell Point, Alaska

100%

(1)

Clearwater State Recreation Site

Delta Junction, Alaska

100%

(1)

Donnelly Creek State Recreation Site

Fort Greely, Alaska

Upper Chatanika River State Recreation Site

100%

(1)

Upper Chatanika River State Recreation Site

Fox, Alaska

River, stream, or creek camping in Alaska guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience! If you're looking to camp near a river in the beautiful wilderness of Alaska, we've got you covered. With over 432 options specifically tailored to your activity/terrain preference, you'll have no shortage of amazing choices. Whether you're an experienced camper or a first-timer, we have options for every budget, with an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $15. Looking for recommendations? Check out our top-rated campsites like Pinochle Trail Campground (77 reviews), Valdez Adventure Alliance (62 reviews), and The Coop Camp (17 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, campfires, and showers, as well as exciting activities such as wildlife watching, surfing, and paddling. So pack your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors in Alaska!