Camping near Anchorage
Alaska’s largest city doubles as a recreation hub with immediate access to parks and wild spaces.
- Anchorage
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Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping near Anchorage guide
Overview
Anchorage is the largest population center in Alaska and while it has plenty of urban appeal, the wilderness is not far away. In fact, Chugach State Park is just outside the city with over a half million acres of recreational paradise. Many visitors fly into Anchorage and quickly leave for other destinations, but for those who stay, Anchorage is convenient to a ton of incredible areas loaded with rivers, lakes, coastlines and wilderness for epic camping. Local pilots run regular bush flights into remote areas, and the road system connects directly to many of Alaska’s most coveted destinations.
Where to go
Chugach State Park
The largest state park in the United States nearly borders the city of Anchorage. At more than a half million acres, this park is more akin to an expansive wilderness area. Access is possible from a number of different towns with Anchorage being one of them. The Eagle River Valley is nearby for fishing and recreation in the river corridor. Or, head to the Glen Alps trailhead for an overlook and hike that offers expansive views.
Drive to Denali National Park
The park is a four drive from Anchorage with no shortage of fun between the city and entrance. Willow and Talkeetna are both adventure hubs with chances to catch salmon, take flightseeing tours and to hike and enjoy the surrounding forests. When you reach Denali National Park, consider hiking to really penetrate the interior. Shuttles are available on the main road or you can walk/bicycle along the route. Rafting trips are also available just outside the park.
Visit the Kenai Peninsula
Just to the south of Anchorage is the Kenai Peninsula where exceptional rivers and coastal access awaits visitors. The Kenai River is world renowned for rafting and it has impressive salmon runs during the summer. The rainbow trout reach giant sizes from feeding on salmon eggs and flesh here. Whitewater rafting through the rapids is a great way to experience the Kenai or you can head to the coast for a boat ride and fishing trip in the Cook Inlet.
Book a Fly Out Trip
One major advantage of visiting Anchorage is access to fly out operations. Many companies fly from Anchorage to remote locations in the interior. You can book a day trip for flight seeing or plan a more involved trip with a flyout dropoff and pickup. These true wilderness experiences require that you pack everything needed to camp, cook and navigate between the plane ride out and pickup. Some flyout trips will drop off at rental cabins and lodges as well.
When to go
With an urban center that offers dining and lodging, Anchorage is a year-round destination. Winter is ideal for viewing the northern lights and quiet snowy landscape. Dog mushing races also draw winter visitors from around the globe. Summer is ideal for hiking, fishing and visiting the many parks in the region. Everything is open and accessible during June, July and August. The fall is also excellent for avoiding the crowds and is especially enticing for hunters chasing moose, sheep and other big game in the region. The international airport operates daily flights, and there really isn’t a bad time to experience Anchorage.
