Camping Near Alaska National Parks

Contrary to popular belief, Alaska experiences all four seasons, not just winter. The best time of year to camp in Alaska depends on what season you want to experience. May through September is peak camping time, with most campgrounds open during the summer months. The frozen lands during the winter have thawed, and all the plants and landscape are green and blooming. You could also camp during the winter, but the weather conditions vary and could be dangerous.

Summertime is also a wonderful time to see diverse wildlife walking around, such as caribou, moose, Dall sheep and bears. You may even have opportunities to see sea lions, seals and humpback whales near the coast.

Many parts of Alaska experience extended periods of daylight or darkness, depending on the season. For example, residents in Utqiaġvik, Alaska, one of the northernmost cities in the state, can have over 60 days of constant darkness during the winter because the sun doesn't rise.

It is easy to camp in Alaska when you stay at Kampgrounds of America. Our campgrounds have everything you need, with access to many amenities to make your camping trip fun and comfortable. Staying at a KOA Campground in Alaska also gives you access to the helpful KOA staff, who love helping you make the most of your trip. Ask them for help with hookups at your campsite or their favorite things to do around the region.

Staying at a campground is ideal when you want comfort, are unfamiliar with Alaska's terrain or are a camping novice. With the facilities and services our campgrounds provide, you have many opportunities to have the full camping experience while also benefiting from the company of others.

You and your family can have a blast while adventuring throughout Alaska. Whether staying near Homer, Seward or Valdez, you have several popular attractions to visit, such as:

• Alaska SeaLife Center: Kids and adults alike will enjoy Alaska SeaLife Center, a public aquarium that educates guests on marine research and wildlife conservation. See puffins, sea lions, harbor seals and more animals as you learn about marine ecosystems.
• Seafarer's Memorial: In Homer, you could visit the Seafarer's Memorial, a statue dedicated to the countless fishermen who have lost their lives while at sea. The memorial is a good reminder to appreciate those who risk their lives to catch fish and sea creatures to provide food on shore.
• Iditarod Trail: Watch the annual Iditarod Sled Dog Race in person. The Iditarod race pays homage to the 1925 serum run that saved countless lives during the diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska. You'll watch dog sled teams race to see who travels the Iditarod trail the fastest. Some areas host activities to help visitors learn about the trail's significance and experience part of it themselves.

Alaska offers many opportunities for you to try different outdoor activities. Popular ones you and your kids would love experiencing include:

• Seeing the northern lights: The northern lights, or Aurora borealis, are natural phenomena that occur several times throughout the year. You can try your luck at seeing the beautiful colors, such as green, purple, yellow and red.
• Visiting popular cities: While Alaska is a vast state with open space, there are cities you could visit to learn more about the area or explore the shops and eateries. Take a trip to Juneau, Alaska's capital, or to Anchorage, the biggest city in the state.
• Watching whales: You could also take a tour to go whale watching while in Alaska. The region is home to several types of whales, such as orcas and humpbacks.
• Viewing glaciers: Alaska is one of the best places to see beautiful, massive glaciers. You could see some from hiking trails and others from a boat, plane or helicopter. Consider taking a tour of the Matanuska Glacier near Anchorage or the Mendenhall Glacier close to Juneau.

The state has some of the most beautiful nature views and diverse wildlife. Embrace Alaska's nature and wildlife while visiting national parks like:

• Denali National Park: Visit the United States' third largest national park, Denali National Park, to see Denali, the highest mountain peak on the continent, standing at 20,310 feet tall. With the park's commitment to conservation, wildlife freely roams the six million acres of land like they always have. The park is open year-round, so you can visit whenever you want, weather permitting.
• Kenai Fjords National Park: See where land, ice and water meet while at the Kenai Fjords National Park. Take a boat tour or kayak through the fjords during the summer. You could also cross-country ski and snowmobile through the park during the winter.
• Glacier Bay National Park: Travel around the coastlines, fjords, mountains, glaciers and rainforest while exploring Glacier Bay National Park. The park's 3.3 million acres houses awe-striking views everywhere you turn.

Alaska is home to 34 different state parks spread across the state's different regions, meaning it encompasses more land mass than any other state park in the United States. Some of the most popular for campers, hikers and vacationers are:

• Totem Bight State Historic Park in Ketchikan
• Independence Mine State Historical Park in Palmer
• Chugach State Park in Anchorage
• Kachemak Bay State Park in Homer
• Chilkat State Park in Haines

Depending on which park you visit, you and your loved ones could see glaciers up close, pan for gold, ride an ATV or snowmobile, explore hiking trails or fish for dinner that you'll enjoy over a fire later. State park visitor centers are also great places to pick up souvenirs to commemorate your trip.

Alaska is known for its fresh seafood, from king salmon to crab. Whether you're searching for local cuisine or more

• Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill: Experience fine casual dining at Simon & Seafort's Saloon & Grill in Anchorage, where you can choose from sustainable seafood and quality meats.
• Two Sisters Bakery: Indulge in homemade breads, sandwiches and desserts at Two Sisters Bakery in Homer. You could also get a fresh cup of coffee during your stop at the bakery.
• Glacier Brewhouse: Dine on local seafood and wood-cooked meats while sipping a handcrafted ale or specialty cocktail at Glacier Brewhouse in Anchorage. Experience brunch, lunch or dinner service, but be quick because there are only 110 seats available, making reservations a must.

You'll find delicious food everywhere around the state. Visit small businesses for a local flair, or try the more sophisticated restaurants with unique spins on traditional dishes. Don't forget to try local specialties, like fry bread, when you get the chance!