A trip to Alaska is something everyone should experience at least once in their life. Hot, humid summers with boating and diving in an icy river. Magical, colorful autumn with fishing, rock climbing, and walks in the colorful forest. A merciless but beautiful winter: bathing in hot springs and contemplating the fantastic northern lights. And the long-awaited spring, when the ice melts and the first green sprouts appear from under the snow.
Yes, holidays in Alaska are multifaceted and varied. But this time, we’re discussing something exceptional: winter camping in Alaska. If you feel this attraction to the wild nature of a harsh snowy region, there is nothing better than to get out with a tent to a secluded place. But where exactly? We will tell you in this article.
Where To Camp In Alaska?
#1 Watching Aurora At Chena Lake:
The Northern Lights are the main attraction of winter Alaska. And you will hardly find a better place to observe this beautiful natural phenomenon than Chena Lake. There are two campgrounds here: Lake Park (45 campsites) and River Park (35 campsites). This is an excellent opportunity for a family camping trip, as you are still close to Fairbanks.
If you want to spend an unforgettable evening and enjoy with your family, you will need tents for camping 4 person. However, remember that the Northern Lights can only be seen on clear days, so be sure to spend a few days in the city.
We also recommend visiting the Chena Hot Springs, as you will already be there.
#2 Snowmobiling At Eklutna Lake:
Eklutna Lake Campground is open all year round, and there really is a lot to do here: fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, etc. The most popular winter activity here is snowmobiling.
Campground is located near Anchorage, on the territory of Chugach State Park. There are 50 campsites for camping at your disposal.
#3 Enjoying Winter Nature At Riley Creek Campground:
Riley Creek is the largest campground in Denali National Park. Even though the campground is open all year round, it is paid only during the summer months. This is an excellent place for walking and watching wild animals. Bears are rarely seen here, making Riley Creek a safer place. However, be aware that in winter, the weather can be freezing.
Riley Creek Campground loves pets, so you don’t have to leave them at home alone.
#4 Skiing At Kachemak Bay State Park:
If you are extreme, we advise visiting Kachemak Bay State Park. Many lovers of skiing and snowmobiling come here in winter. Also, here you can enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains and fresh air, which is so lacking in dusty cities.
Please note that most amenities are unavailable during the winter, so this must be a true adventure, not for sissies.
#5 Fishing at Quartz Lake:
The perfect place for winter fishing in Alaska is Quartz Lake—a small private campground with sixteen campsites for winter camping in an ice fishing tent. There are also more than eighty campsites in the parking lot where you can also park your motorhome. This area is open yearly, but Quartz Lake is most prevalent during the fishing season.
#6 Activities At Byers Lake Cabins:
Byers Lake Campground is the perfect place for winter outdoor enthusiasts. In addition to the tent camp, you can also rent a cozy house with a stove for a more comfortable stay.
Many tourists come here every winter to enjoy kayaking, lake tours, and other activities.
Gas generators are not allowed on the territory of the tented area, so you will not be disturbed by constant noise. For a modest fee, 73 campsites will be available to you.
#7 Enjoy the Silence of Galbraith Lake Campground:
This is a campsite without any facilities. However, it is free throughout the year. This is a great place to escape civilization’s benefits for a while and feel unity with nature. There will be 30 campsites at your disposal.
Campground is located in the Atigun Valley, on the drained shores of a once colossal lake fed by glaciers. This is a great place to contemplate nature, but you should know this adventure is not easy.
What Do You Need To Know When Planning A Trip To Alaska?
Alaska is a harsh but beautiful land. Therefore, you should know a few important things so that your trip goes smoothly.
Traveling Alone:
Ladies traveling alone should be cautious, as rape and sex crime rates are disproportionately high compared to the rest of the US.
Cold Water:
The water in Alaska is so cold that falling overboard can be life-threatening. It often becomes impossible to escape on your own since hypothermia occurs within a few minutes, especially in rivers fed by glaciers. Therefore, reading the information on cold relief before engaging in water sports, even in warm weather, is essential.
Wild Animals:
Many regions have wild animals that are best avoided. For example, bears are pretty standard. After hibernation, their behavior can be life-threatening, so it’s always best to go to the forest accompanied by dogs, which will instantly hear the approach of a large animal and warn you.
Moose are also very common in Alaska. In general, they are peaceful creatures and do not attack people. However, they may misbehave in September and October, during the mating season, and in the spring when offspring are born.
Alaska may seem inhospitable at first glance, but if you follow the basic safety rules, this land will appear before you in all its glory and give you many unforgettable emotions. So, go! You’ve already packed your tent, right?
