Williwaw Campground
4.60121 reviews145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129
Williwaw Campground
$23.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $23 to $33 per night depending on site type (standard nonelectric or RV nonelectric). Additional fees may apply for reservations made via different platforms.
About this campground
Nestled alongside the crystalline waters of Williwaw Creek, just moments from the charming town of Girdwood, Williwaw Campground offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. Here, where ancient forests meet rushing waters, adventurers discover a basecamp perfectly positioned for world-class fishing, scenic hiking trails, and unforgettable wildlife encounters throughout the stunning Portage Valley.
Williwaw Campground offers a mix of standard campsites suitable for RVs and tents. Group sites and cabin lodging are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceFor more than eight decades, the majestic Portage Glacier has been sculpting this remarkable landscape, dramatically calving massive icebergs into the pristine waters of Portage Lake. These glaciated valleys tell the story of millennia of natural forces at work, creating the breathtaking scenery that has drawn visitors to witness one of Alaska's most accessible and awe-inspiring glacial wonders.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature paints dramatic scenes at Williwaw, where misty mornings and rainfall create an ethereal atmosphere during shoulder seasons. Summer brings a gentler touch with clearer mountain vistas and temperatures hovering between 24°F and 31°F. The valley's signature winds and frequent rain showers add to the authentic Alaskan experience—pack your rain gear and embrace the elements that keep this landscape so vibrantly green and alive.
ElevationElevation details are unavailable.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to towering peaks reflected in mirror-still waters, where glaciers gleam like diamonds against granite cliffs. The campground sits cradled within Portage Valley's embrace, surrounded by emerald forests and alpine grandeur. Watch spawning salmon navigate the creek's currents, then explore the enchanting Trail of Blue Ice or meander along the educational Williwaw Nature Trail, where every turn reveals another postcard-perfect view of Alaska's raw beauty.
Geological RegionSet within the Eastern Kenai Peninsula's crown jewel—the Chugach National Forest—Williwaw Campground occupies one of Alaska's most geologically dramatic regions. Here, jagged peaks pierce the sky while ancient glaciers continue their slow dance through carved valleys. Deep fjords and glacier-fed rivers create a landscape of constant motion and timeless beauty, where the Portage Valley serves as nature's amphitheater for witnessing the power of ice, water, and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible facilities include wide, level campsites and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables as noted in some user reviews.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating large RVs. Pull-through and back-in sites are available.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are well-separated by trees, offering privacy. One user remarked, 'Each campsite is far enough from others and isolated by trees to be quiet.'
Total Campsites59 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites like #30, #8, and #29 are ideal for their views of mountains, privacy, and spaciousness.
Best CampsitesSite #30 is noted for spaciousness and river access; Campsite #8 and #29 receive high praise for views of mountains and proximity to water features.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Stay limited to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum standard occupancy of each site is not explicitly stated.
Groups
Details about group sites are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has paved sites, organized in loops with spacious distances between sites.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground opens May 18 and closes September 9 for reservable sites.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online platform.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome first-come-first-serve sites are available during the peak season; however, sites fill quickly especially by Thursday.
Cancellation Policy"If your new stay dates are completely different from your original stay dates, there is a $10 change fee (per reserved site)." "Late cancellations subtract the first night's recreation use fee in addition to the $10 cancellation fee."
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Williwaw Campground offers various activities including hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and proximity to nearby attractions such as Portage Glacier. The Trail of Blue Ice, originating from the campground, is a highlight favored by hikers and bikers alike.
Hiking
Hiking trails are abundant, with the Williwaw Nature Trail connecting to the Trail of Blue Ice. As described by users, these trails offer scenic views, including glaciers and streams. One reviewer mentioned, 'Great views of the mountains and glaciers. Convenient location to Portage Glacier.'Fishing
Fishing is supported, especially during the salmon spawning season. The nearby Williwaw Creek offers prime salmon viewing opportunities. One reviewer noted, 'You can also watch the salmon run here (in the right season).Biking
The campground's Trail of Blue Ice is popular for biking. User accounts frequently mention biking activities, describing the trail as scenic and suitable for all skill levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a significant attraction, with opportunities to see brown and black bears, moose, bald eagles, and more. One user highlighted their experience of seeing a black bear and another mentioned spotting a moose in the campground.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, although the area is accessible for outdoor exploration during colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are not highlighted, though one reviewer mentioned enjoying a 'kayak float down the Portage Creek.'Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must be contained within designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase on-site for $8.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include black bears, brown bears, moose, and harsh weather conditions.
Active alertsNo active alerts are reported during the peak season.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are in Girdwood, which is approximately 8 miles away. This includes medical facilities and police services. Emergency maintenance personnel are not noted on-site.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 18, 2025 - September 9, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available during peak seasons; however, off-season reviews indicate no trash services are provided. As one user stated, 'No trash collection while unmanaged, so pack out what you pack in.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Williwaw Creek, Portage Lake, and salmon-viewing platforms.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention maintenance issues such as vault toilets being full and picnic tables being in poor condition.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful; they provide guidance on site selection and hiking trails.
Campground Map
145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129
Driving directionsFrom Anchorage go 55 miles south on Seward highway to Portage Glacier Road (milepost 78.9). The campground is located at mile 4.1 of the Portage Glacier Road.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal road closures may occur due to snow during the winter months. Visitors should be cautious of foggy conditions that can make driving challenging. No significant navigation challenges are noted.Nearby places
Anchorage (45 miles, approximately 45 minutes), Whittier (approximately 11 miles), Girdwood (approximately 8 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in nearby Girdwood (approximately 8 miles). Additional supplies may be available in Anchorage.
Camper Reviews
4.6
121 reviews
Williwaw Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Williwaw Campground are highly positive, emphasizing its scenic location, spacious and private campsites, and proximity to popular trails and attractions. The campground's cleanliness and well-maintained facilities also receive frequent praise.
Review Summaries
Based on 121 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the privacy of campsites, the stunning scenery including glacier views, and the well-maintained facilities. Comments like 'Gorgeous campground surrounded by mountains,...
Based on 121 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of cell service, absence of electric hookups, and occasional maintenance issues such as overfilled pit toilets during peak times. One user noted,...
Based on 121 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing cash for firewood, bear spray for safety, and binoculars for glacier and wildlife viewing. Preparedness for rain and mosquitoes is advised, with one reviewer noting,...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer months are particularly popular due to salmon spawning and better weather conditions, though rain is frequent. During the off-season, the campground is unmanaged, and services like trash...
Based on 121 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"What a beautiful campground! The mountains, glaciers, and woods surrounding the campsite are stunning." – Irina D. "Clean and beautiful, with trails accessible for walking or biking." – Valeriya B....
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Site-Specific Reviews
Specific sites such as #30 are noted for their spaciousness and scenic views. One user commented, 'Spot 30 VERY spacious with river access. BILLION DOLLAR VIEWS.' Another mentioned, 'Our site #8 had...
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Accessibility Features
Certain campsites have wheelchair-accessible picnic tables, and the terrain is generally level, making it easier for visitors with disabilities.
Based on 121 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or policies regarding pets are indicated.
Based on 121 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025