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Chugach/Williwaw
Overview
Located within the heart of the Chugach National Forest, Williwaw Campground offers one of the most scenic and accessible camping experiences in the Portage Valley. This US Forest Service facility serves as a gateway to the dramatic landscapes of south-central Alaska, positioned near the end of the Seward Highway corridor. It provides a serene natural environment where travelers can immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of glacier-carved valleys while maintaining easy access to local transit routes.
Location & Surroundings
The campground is situated in the Portage Valley, just a short drive from the mountain town of Girdwood. It is surrounded by towering peaks, hanging glaciers, and lush temperate rainforest. One of the park's standout features is its location along the Trail of Blue Ice, a non-motorized pathway that connects various points of interest throughout the valley. The proximity to Portage Lake ensures cool, crisp air and frequent sightings of local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Amenities & Park Features
Williwaw is a well-maintained dry camping facility that features paved parking pads suitable for a variety of rig sizes, including many large motorhomes. While there are no utility hookups, the park offers essential amenities including vault toilets, hand pumps for potable water, and on-site camp hosts during the peak season. Each site is equipped with a heavy-duty fire ring and a picnic table, allowing guests to enjoy a traditional camping experience. Most sites are spacious and separated by thick native vegetation for added privacy.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Visitors are perfectly positioned to explore the Begich, Boggs Visitor Center, which provides deep insights into the local glacial geology and ecosystem. Hiking enthusiasts can easily access the Byron Glacier Trail for a relatively easy walk to view permanent snowfields and dramatic ice formations. The nearby Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center offers a chance to see wood bison, bears, and moose up close. For those looking for coastal adventure, the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to Whittier is only a few miles away.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is ideal for self-contained RVers who prioritize natural beauty and tranquility over modern resort amenities. It is a fantastic choice for families looking to explore the outdoors via safe, paved trails and for photographers hoping to capture the spectacular Alaskan landscape. If you enjoy falling asleep to the sound of glacial streams and waking up surrounded by wilderness, Williwaw is a must-visit stop on your journey through the Kenai Peninsula region.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Charles Browning
The Camp hosts were the best! Had manual well pumps only. Great views, double campsites available, pullouts and back in spots. The drive and sites are paved. All sites were well shaded from trees. No dump station on-site had to drive clear to Anchorage to empty/fill tanks
JW
MUST READ TIPS: - Cash or Check Only - Reservations can be made on Rec.gov - More than half the campground is First come first serve. -No water or electrical hook ups -No dump station on site -Phone service is bad or nonexistent(enjoy the location) -Pit toilets(Cleaned daily when host on site) - 5 minutes from Whitter -Excellent trails and views -Water pumps on site with drinking water(no hose hookups) This campground is a postcard brought to life!!
S M
The campground is in a great location with glaciers and trails to explore. The sites are spacious.
Andrew Erickson
Nice paved National Forest campground with mostly paved spaces. We had enough room for our 34 foot 5th wheel and truck. Helpful host, drinking water in hand pumps and several outhouses. Golden pass gives half of the $23 price per night. Left side is first come, some reservations on right side. Access to trails both ways from the camp. Not much road noise.
April B.
Sites 30 and up are first come, first serve! No amenities except pit toilets and privacy between sites. Some sites are pull-through and are big-rig friendly. We found an easy 60 ft back-in for our fifth wheel. Wheelchair friendly sites.