Campgrounds to Alaska

(An RVer asks...)

My husband and I are planning a three month trip thru Canada and Alaska this summer. I'm wondering about the best way to find out about campgrounds in the area at the best prices? We're from Minnesota and plan to leave the end of May.

Coleen, the working while RVing editor comments:

As far as finding campgrounds on your way to Alaska, especially in May, you probably won't have a lot of choices. Most campgrounds in Canada have a short season. You'll also find some long stretches without towns or general services.

I'd suggest you start watching for a campground about an hour before you want to stop for the day. When you see one that is open, pull in.

You may find that many of the campgrounds on your trip have basic services, but that don't have full hook-ups. Primitive camp sites will likely be more common than luxury RV parks.

Once you get to Alaska, the city campgrounds are excellent deals. Seward and Homer have wonderful, waterfront city campgrounds.

Fred Meyer stores -- groceries and general merchandise -- allow RVers to overnight in their parking lots for free. You'll find them in Soldotna, Anchorage, Wasilla, and other towns.

In Valdez, I'd suggest Eagle's Rest R.V. Park. It is a full service RV park. If you'll be fishing, they have a freezer where you can put your catch while you are there.

In the Fairbanks area, Santaland RV Park in North Pole is a wonderful place to stay. I think it is our personal all time favorite campground, of any we've stayed at, ever, not only in Alaska, but anywhere. Every time we've been there, the bathrooms and showers have been immaculate. There's Internet access. It is pet friendly. The live reindeer on the grounds add a fun touch!

Have a great trip! Watch out for the wildlife crossing the roads. You'll see gorgeous scenery and meet wonderfully interesting people.

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