Leave No Trace
Be sure to clean up after yourself while having a great time in Anchorage and the surrounding area. That way, people coming after you will also enjoy the experience.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Campbell Tract SRMA connects to the 4,000-acre Far North Bicentennial Park in Anchorage and is maintained by the Bureau of Land Management. You can find over 12 miles of hiking trails here, with many options connecting to trails in the park. Together with the park, this location is often used as the beginning or ending point to world-class dog-mushing races. Many people head here in the winter to go snowshoeing, fat tire biking, skijoring, and cross-country skiing. In the summer, it is an excellent place for mountain bike riding, horseback riding, and orienteering. You are likely to see animals when you visit this spot, including lynx, fox, coyotes, moose, and brown bears. Learn more about them by visiting the Campbell Creek Science Center.
If you are looking for a camping adventure with an urban touch, Anchorage is a great place to consider. You can find great restaurants, like Kincaid and Wine Bar, Jen's Restaurant, and Marx Brothers Café. You will want to check the schedule to see what is playing at the Cyrano's Theater Company and Anchorage Community Theater. You may treat yourself to a fantastic spa treatment. You will also find many outdoor activities to enjoy.
Since 2007, the government has recognized the Campbell Tract Loop Trail as a National Recreation Trail. This trail runs through spruce and hardwood forests, and it is used year-round for a variety of activities. Hikers often spot bald eagles and owls while hiking this curvy trail. Part of this trail follows taxiways and tank trails constructed during World War II.
Length: 4.5 miles
Intensity: Easy
This short trail begins behind the Campbell Creek Science Center and runs through a small forest before reaching the creek. Then it follows the stream to the edge of the BLM property.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Easy
This trail starts by going through the woods behind the Campbell Creek Science Center. In about 0.25 miles, take the option headed toward the airfield. Once you get to the airfield, follow the signs to a gate, which will lead you into a more heavily wooded area for the main part of the hike.
Length: 8 miles
Intensity: Moderate
This trail starts at the Sky Jumper Trailhead near BLM Road. It follows the road for about a mile before turning and entering the woods. The wooded part of this trail loops around to bring you back to the trailhead.
Length: 2 miles
Intensity: Easy
Ship Creek is a fantastic place to go fishing in Anchorage. Try catching king salmon about two hours before high tide from mid-May through late June. Then fish for silver salmon from late June to late August. Check the fishing regulations because part of Ship Creek is closed to fishing.
A terrific place to go climbing is Eklutna Canyon in Chugach State Park near Eagle River. Consider using crampons to reach the river below the parking lot or take the longer hike. Then follow the river upstream a short distance until you get to the climbing area. A bonus is seeing the 200-foot Thunderbird Falls nearby.
If you see an animal that looks similar to a dog when visiting Campbell Tract SMRA, then it may be a lynx, fox, or coyote. Moose often come to this area, especially in the winter, as they spend most of the summer at higher elevations. Rarely, you may spot a black or brown bear.
There are many beautiful places for a picnic in Anchorage. Consider following the trail to the top of Flattop Mountain. It will take you about 90 minutes to make the climb. If you are short on time, there is a parking lot most of the way up the mountain, which leaves you only a short hike to the summit. Once there, enjoy stunning views as you look down on Anchorage.
Mushers use the trails at Campbell Tract SRMA to train sledding dogs. Watch for signs that some trails are closed, especially for this purpose in the winter. Several vendors offer dog-mushing opportunities to visitors, especially during the summer. Consider checking out the options at Alaska Mushing School.
There are many different options for RV camping in Anchorage. Think about heading south of Anchorage for about 20 minutes to stay at the Bird Creek Campground. This state-operated campground on Bird Creek gives you easy access to various activities, including fishing and hiking. Because this campground is on the Turnagain Arm, you may even see whales and marine life.
There are no free camping spots in the Anchorage area. You may want to pay for a campground or use one of the wide scenic pullouts along the Seward Highway.
Many visitors find it amazing how fast the weather can change in Anchorage. Expect summer highs of about 60 degrees in the summer and 25 in the winter. Make sure you dress for the weather. Especially in September, you may encounter a lot of rain. Always check out water levels when the water is over a highway because it is better to turn around than drown. Keep in mind that some remote areas may become impassable because of snow in the winter.
Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Be sure to clean up after yourself while having a great time in Anchorage and the surrounding area. That way, people coming after you will also enjoy the experience.
Campbell Tract SRMA is at 4700 BLM Road, Anchorage, Alaska. From downtown Anchorage, take the Seward Highway south and exit on Diamond Boulevard. Turn left and continue until you come to Elmore Road. Go a short distance and turn right on BLM Road.
Ready to visit Campbell Tract SRMA? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step-guide to renting an RV with RVshare.