Anchorage, Alaska, is the most populous city in the US state of Alaska and is known for its breathtaking views, its vibrant cultural life, and its lively outdoor activities. Located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean, Anchorage boasts a population of nearly 300,000 people and is home to many famous restaurants and bars, such as Glacier Brewhouse and Tommy's Burger Stop. Captain James Cook first visited the area in 1778, and the town was officially incorporated as a city in 1912. With the establishment of the railroad in 1920, Anchorage became the transportation hub of Alaska. Aviation developed between the 1930s and 1950s, making Anchorage the military and economic center of the state.
Visitors to Anchorage can explore city parks such as Far North Bicentennial Park or visit the city's vibrant botanical gardens, which display an impressive array of local flora. For those who enjoy urban exploration, the city also offers plenty of museums to check out, including the Anchorage Museum at Rasmuson Center, which contains not only Alaska-related exhibits but also artwork from around the world. Explore Chugach State Park and its many trails for a chance to get out and experience the wildness of Alaska. At the park, visitors can go camping, fishing, or even take a boat out on the flowing Eagle River.
If you are an environmentalist, you will also appreciate that Anchorage is dedicated to sustainability with programs such as its Lights Out program, which helps to minimize light pollution in critical areas throughout the city. Visit El Dorado Mexican Restaurant for delicious Mexican food or the local Wild Scoops ice cream shop for a tasty treat. Jewel Lake Park offers you a chance to see the local wildlife, while a trip to Eagle River Nature Center will give you a glimpse of some spectacular natural scenery.
Campgrounds Near Anchorage, Alaska
Anchorage Ship Creek RV Park is one of the best RV campgrounds in Anchorage with 87 back-in and 37 pull-through sites. It has good cell reception, and showers are available. If you have a pet, this will be an excellent spot for you as it is pet friendly and has plenty of outdoor space.
Russian River Campground is another popular choice. This facility has 79 primitive sites for RV camping. It is also pet friendly, and you can bike on one of its many trails. Back-in and pull-through sites are available, and fishing is permitted in the campground's river.
Bird Creek Campground is another excellent RV park that is located about 20 miles from Anchorage within Chugach State Park. This campground charges $15 daily. It has 28 sites with no hookups, and they are back-in enabled. The sites are rented on a first-come, first-served basis, and stays are limited to seven nights.
State Parks Near Anchorage, Alaska
Take a 28-mile journey from Anchorage to Chugach State Park to experience a backcountry adventure like no other. The park is home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Alaska, with peaks ranging from 4500 to 6000 feet. You will enjoy hiking the Chugach Mountains, with trails ranging from easy to complex, and enjoy plenty of opportunities for fishing, cycling, boating, and wildlife viewing in the park. The Eagle River provides you with a unique opportunity to experience glacial kayaking. This 495,204-acre park is home to porcupines, moose, red foxes, and ground squirrels.
Just 133 miles north of Anchorage lies Denali State Park, which is home to beavers, deer, elk, and grizzly bears. This park has over 325,000 acres and offers fishing opportunities for all five species of Pacific salmon. The Savage River is ideal for rafting, and Moose Creek is great for canoeing and kayaking. The many trails throughout the park allow visitors to take in the beautiful mountain scenery. Overnight RV camping is available.
You'll drive about 2.5 hours from Anchorage to find Sandspit Point State Marine Park. The park has a rocky shoreline and sandy beaches, perfect for exploring the intertidal zone. You can go beachcombing, observe sea life, or take a boat trip to see the whales, puffins, and bald eagles. This park is also famous for kayaking and snorkeling. Its many campgrounds make it an ideal spot for RV travelers.
National Sites Near Anchorage, Alaska
Visit Alagnak Wild and Scenic River, which starts at the outlet of Kukaklek Lake and flows through a vast tundra system. This scenic river is home to some great fishing, with several species of salmon and trout abundant here. It is also an excellent spot for rafting, kayaking, or canoeing, with many scenic vistas along the way. The waters provide resources to locals, and the fishing industry is a significant part of the local economy. This wild and scenic river is bordered by vast areas featuring riverside forests, lakes, and wetlands. You can also visit the nearby Katmai National Park and explore its wilderness and wildlife.
Eisenhower Statehood Monument is another national historic site located in Anchorage. The monument is located in a small park and offers spectacular views of the Chugach Mountains. You will find a granite sculpture of Dwight D. Eisenhower, commemorating his role in advocating for Alaska's statehood. You can also find a marble base supporting an eight-foot bronze statue of Eisenhower, with his signature and the date of Alaska's admission to the Union.
Visit Captain Cook Monument in Anchorage and learn about the history of Captain James Cook's discovery of Alaska. Enjoy a scenic view from this historical monument and explore the exhibits that tell the story of Cook's journey in 1778. The site has a bronze statue of Cook and a replica of his ship, The Resolution. This statue is a replica of the original one in London, which renowned sculptor Derek Freeborn created. Great Britain donated it to the United States in 1976 to commemorate the Bicentennial.
National Forests Near Anchorage, Alaska
Chugach National Forest is located in the Chugach Mountains. It is about 6,908,540 acres in size and is home to many species of wildlife, including the bald eagle. Fishing is also popular in the Chugach National Forest, with its plentiful rainbow and Dolly Varden trout. You can also find moose, black bears, and ground squirrels living in the park. The forest is known for its beauty, with more than 800 miles of trails and numerous mountain peaks, glaciers, and valleys. Enjoy a camping trip here or partake in some of the many activities available such as hiking, mountain biking, and snowmobiling. Their forest has only about 90 miles of maintained forest roads, so it is good to be aware of the terrain when planning a trip.
Tongass National Forest is located in Southeast Alaska and covers an area of over 16.7 million acres. This temperate rainforest is the largest national forest in the United States and is home to many different species of wildlife. It was officially recognized in 1907 and is known for its diverse landscape and vast areas of old-growth forest. The national forest features excellent fishing, camping, hiking, and kayaking opportunities, as well as a variety of wildlife. The forest also has many quaint towns and villages, offering everything from eco-tours to arts and culture.
Olympic National Forest in Washington State is the other national forest you may want to visit during your time in Anchorage, Alaska. This national forest is full of beautiful landscapes including rainforests, mountains, and rivers. You will have plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, camping, mountain biking, and skiing. Many species of wildlife live in the forest, such as elk, deer, mountain goats, marmots, and bald eagles.
