The best camping near Willow Creek State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Willow Creek State Recreation Area adventure.

Discover the scenic beauty of Willow Creek State Recreation Area.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Willow Creek State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Willow Creek State Recreation Area

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Hideaway Camp (Single Camp Spot!)

1 site · RV3 acres · Anchorage, AK

**NOW BOOKING FOR THE 2025 SEASON ** 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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North 40 Stays

8 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!!

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The Wilds

3 sites · Lodging200 acres · Fishhook, AK

Our off-grid property is situated on 200 private acres of beautiful Alaskan land. We have five miles of trails right out your cabin door and beautiful views of the Susitna River throughout. The Talkeetna Mountains serve as an incredible backdrop to it all. We live on the property, as do our array of animals. We have a family of geese and chickens who will welcome you with open wings, as well as two dogs and three cats. We operate off of solar and generated power and while the cabins do have limited electricity, we ask that you We are located just 55 miles from the Anchorage Airport, 12 miles from downtown Palmer and 14 miles from downtown Wasilla. Best of all, were just 2.8 miles from Government Peak Recreation Area and 10 miles from Hatcher Pass, so if it's adventure you're looking for, you're in luck! If you’re looking for a fun day trip, we’re just an hour and a half from Talkeetna and 3.5 hours from Denali. We've named our property The Wilds because it is wild! A large portion of our land is protected by a conservation easement, so it can never be developed. We cherish that responsibility and are excited to share the rawness of this land with you!

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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

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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.

Jim Creek Blank Land

30 sites · RVs13 acres · Palmer, AK

This is blank land in the Buette area of Palmer, Alaska. No signs except for the address sign. Make your own spot. No amenities. Please take your own trash out. Enjoy your stay for just $10 a night. Near Jim Creek. Great fishing. A lot of trails for 4X4s and riding ATVs. Come park your car, camper, RV etc and enjoy Alaskan life at Jim Creek Blank land.

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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!

Booked 3 times

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!

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Creekside Campground

10 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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Deluxe Mtn Cabins: Anchorage, AK

9 sites · Lodging5 acres · Chugiak, AK

Welcome to BlueWater BaseCamp! BlueWater BaseCamp is a haven for those who seek solace and rejuvenation in nature without venturing far from the city. Nestled in the scenic Eklutna Valley, BWBC is a boutique hotel and event venue catering to independent travelers, locals, groups of up to 28 people, and events with up to 75 attendees. Accommodations: Our Small Deluxe Cabins (5 available) offer an intimate Alaskan experience, perfectly suited for two. Each cabin features a cozy living room with a couch, chair, and Murphy table. The kitchenette is fully equipped with dishes, silverware, pots and pans, culinary tools, basic spices, Keurig coffee maker, induction cooktop, microwave, and mini fridge. The bathrooms include shower, toilet, sink and some have soaking tubs. The bedrooms boast queen beds with closet space and some cabins have a loft for unwinding with a good book. For those seeking a soaking tub experience, Ranger's Roost and Bashful Peak Cabins have the added luxury of a relaxing tub. Our larger cabins (3 available) designed for groups up to 6, offer a fully handicap-accessible first floor. The spacious cabins feature a full kitchen equipped with a mid-sized fridge, stove, oven, microwave, and a dining table for 6. The bathroom is generously sized, featuring a roll-in, zero-threshold shower, roll-under sink, and appropriately placed grab bars around the shower and toilet. The main floor bedroom hosts a queen-size bed with room to turn mobility devices and the upstairs loft provides 2 queen beds for the rest of your party. Immersed in the tranquility of the surrounding woods, our deluxe cabins serve as the perfect retreat to rest, rejuvenate, and explore the Anchorage area and beyond. Book Now to reserve your private getaway!

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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

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Sunderland Ranch Farm Stay

2 sites · RVs, TentsPalmer, AK

Legacy family land! Learn more about this land:Pitch a tent here at the Sunderland Ranch. We often have guests staying here or playing here for other events, but are happy to have you too! This will be as quiet or as experiential as you would like. You can schedule a trail ride or farm tour with our staff/family, or get out and walk the trails or around the ranch and enjoy Alaska at its best.

The best camping near Willow Creek State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Embark on an adventure at Willow Creek State Recreation Area, where the great Alaskan wilderness beckons. With 3,583 acres of pristine landscapes, this park offers a plethora of activities including camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Set up camp at one of the 140 campsites and immerse yourself in nature's splendor, with no RV size limit and a range of camping durations to suit your travel plans.

Notable campgrounds

Willow Creek Campground - A favorite among anglers and families for its proximity to fishing spots and spacious sites.
River's Edge Campground - Perfect for those seeking the sounds of flowing water and serene views.
Lakeside Retreat - Ideal for campers who enjoy water activities and picturesque sunsets over the lake.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak summer months, to ensure your spot amid the wilderness.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Check for cancellations regularly as plans change and spots may open up unexpectedly.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of securing a reservation.

When to go

The best time to visit Willow Creek State Recreation Area is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, for those seeking solitude and a chance to witness the northern lights, late fall and early spring offer a unique experience, albeit with cooler temperatures.

Know before you go

Always check the park's website for the latest information on campground open status and trail conditions.
Remember that wildlife is abundant; store food securely and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Accessibility is a priority, with ADA facilities available for those with disabilities.
Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly for your outdoor adventures.
Respect the natural habitat by not disturbing beaver dams and lodges, crucial for the ecosystem.