Overview
The Finger Lake State Recreation Area is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, offering a unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Located about 50 miles northwest of Anchorage, this campground is situated on the shores of Finger Lake, a pristine and tranquil body of water surrounded by rolling hills and towering trees. The area is characterized by its stunning scenery, with the Chugach Mountains rising in the distance and the lake’s crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding landscape. One of the unique features of this campground is its proximity to the Iditarod National Historic Trail, which passes through the area and offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and dog sledding.
The campground itself is nestled among a mix of spruce, birch, and aspen trees, providing ample shade and protection from the elements. The area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, bears, and bald eagles, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its serene atmosphere, stunning scenery, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, the Finger Lake State Recreation Area is an ideal destination for those seeking to experience the best of Alaska’s wilderness.
Location & Directions
To get to the Finger Lake State Recreation Area, take the Glenn Highway (AK-1) from Anchorage and drive approximately 50 miles northwest to mile marker 49.5. Turn left onto Finger Lake Road and follow the signs to the campground, which is located at GPS coordinates 61.6233° N, 149.2833° W. The road to the campground is paved and well-maintained, but be aware that it can be narrow and winding in some areas.
From the nearest city, Wasilla, take the Parks Highway (AK-3) north to the Glenn Highway (AK-1) and follow the directions above. The driving distance from Wasilla is approximately 30 miles and takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions. Be sure to check the road conditions before heading out, especially during the winter months when snow and ice can make the roads hazardous.
Campground Details
The Finger Lake State Recreation Area campground has a total of 37 campsites, including 25 RV sites, 10 tent sites, and 2 walk-in sites. The RV sites can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length and offer 20-amp electrical hookups. The tent sites are located in a separate area of the campground and offer stunning views of the surrounding hills and lake. The walk-in sites are located near the lake and offer a more primitive camping experience.
The current fees for camping at Finger Lake State Recreation Area are $20 per night for RV sites, $15 per night for tent sites, and $10 per night for walk-in sites. Reservations can be made through reserveamerica.com or by calling (877) 444-6777. The campground is open from May 15 to September 15, and check-in time is 2 pm, while check-out time is 12 pm.
It’s worth noting that the campground is first-come, first-served during the off-season, and the fees are reduced to $10 per night for all sites. However, be aware that the amenities and facilities may be limited during this time.
Site Types and Amenities
- RV sites: 25 sites with 20-amp electrical hookups, max RV length 40 feet
- Tent sites: 10 sites with picnic tables and fire rings
- Walk-in sites: 2 sites with picnic tables and fire rings, located near the lake
- Hookups: 20-amp electrical hookups available at RV sites
- Fees: $20 per night for RV sites, $15 per night for tent sites, $10 per night for walk-in sites
Facilities & Amenities
The Finger Lake State Recreation Area campground offers a range of facilities and amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. The campground has a potable water system, with water available at the campground entrance and at several locations throughout the campground. The restrooms are equipped with flush toilets and are located near the campground entrance.
Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table, and firewood is available for purchase at the campground entrance. The campground also has a boat launch and a dump station, making it an ideal destination for boaters and RVers. Bear boxes are provided at each campsite to store food and other scented items, and are mandatory to use to prevent attracting wildlife.
The campground also has a day-use area with picnic tables, a playground, and a swimming beach, making it a great spot for families and day-trippers. The day-use area is located near the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.
Facilities and Amenities List
- Potable water system
- Flush toilets
- Fire rings and picnic tables at each campsite
- Firewood available for purchase
- Boat launch
- Dump station
- Bear boxes at each campsite
- Day-use area with picnic tables, playground, and swimming beach
Hiking & Activities Nearby
The Finger Lake State Recreation Area is surrounded by a range of hiking trails, offering something for every skill level and interest. The Iditarod National Historic Trail passes through the area and offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and dog sledding. The trail is approximately 10 miles long and takes around 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the conditions.
The campground is also located near several fishing spots, including Finger Lake and the nearby Willow Creek. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, grayling, and salmon, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. Boating is also a popular activity in the area, with a boat launch located near the campground entrance.
In addition to hiking and fishing, the area offers a range of other activities, including berry picking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The surrounding hills and mountains are home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, bears, and bald eagles, making it a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nearby Trails and Activities
- Iditarod National Historic Trail: 10 miles, 4-6 hours
- Finger Lake Trail: 2 miles, 1-2 hours
- Willow Creek Trail: 5 miles, 2-3 hours
- Fishing: Finger Lake, Willow Creek
- Boating: boat launch located near campground entrance
- Berry picking: surrounding hills and mountains
- Wildlife viewing: moose, bears, bald eagles
Fishing Opportunities
The Finger Lake State Recreation Area is a fisherman’s paradise, with a range of fishing spots located throughout the area. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including trout, grayling, and salmon, and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains. The nearby Willow Creek is also a popular fishing spot, with a range of fish species and scenic views.
To fish in the area, you’ll need a valid Alaska fishing license, which can be purchased online or at a local tackle shop. Be sure to check the fishing regulations before you head out, as they can change throughout the season. The best techniques for fishing in the area include fly fishing, spin casting, and trolling, and the best times to fish are early morning and late evening when the fish are most active.
Fishing Regulations and Techniques
- Alaska fishing license required
- Fishing regulations: check with Alaska Department of Fish and Game
- Best techniques: fly fishing, spin casting, trolling
- Best times to fish: early morning, late evening
- Fish species: trout, grayling, salmon
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Finger Lake State Recreation Area is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is warm and the days are long. The peak season is June to August, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the fish are biting. However, be aware that this is also the busiest time of year, and the campground and trails can be crowded.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season, from May to June or September to October. The weather is still mild, and the scenery is stunning, with the fall colors in full display. However, be aware that some of the facilities and amenities may be closed during this time, and the roads can be rough.
Mosquito season is also a consideration when visiting the area, as the bugs can be fierce during the summer months. Be sure to bring plenty of bug spray and wear protective clothing to prevent getting bitten.
Seasonal Information
- Peak season: June to August
- Shoulder season: May to June, September to October
- Mosquito season: June to August
- Weather: warm and sunny during the summer months, cool and rainy during the shoulder season
Wildlife & Bear Safety
The Finger Lake State Recreation Area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, bears, and bald eagles. To stay safe, be sure to follow the proper food storage and disposal procedures, and keep a clean campsite. Bear spray is also a must-have when hiking or camping in the area, and be sure to know how to use it properly.
If you encounter a bear, stay calm and follow the proper procedures. Back away slowly and do not run, as this can trigger the bear’s chase instinct. Make yourself look as big as possible by standing up straight and spreading your arms, and use bear spray if the bear approaches. Never approach or feed wildlife, as this can be dangerous for both you and the animal.
Bear Safety Tips
- Proper food storage and disposal
- Clean campsite
- Bear spray: know how to use it properly
- Encountering a bear: stay calm, back away slowly, make yourself look big
- Never approach or feed wildlife
What to Bring
When visiting the Finger Lake State Recreation Area, be sure to bring the following essential items:
- Camping gear: tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad
- Cooking gear: stove, fuel, pot, utensils
- Clothing: layers for cool and warm weather, rain gear, bug protection
- First aid kit
- Bear spray
- Food and water: enough for the duration of your stay, plus extra in case of emergencies
- Map and compass: and/or a GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Extra batteries
- Trash bags and a small shovel for waste disposal
Be sure to check the weather forecast before you head out and pack accordingly. The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and it’s always better to be prepared.
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The nearest town to the Finger Lake State Recreation Area is Wasilla, which is located about 30 miles away. Wasilla has a range of amenities, including restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores, making it a great place to stock up on supplies before heading to the campground.
Other nearby attractions include the Iditarod Trail Headquarters, the Musk Ox Farm, and the Willow Creek State Recreation Area. The Iditarod Trail Headquarters is a great place to learn about the history of the Iditarod Trail and the sled dogs that use it, while the Musk Ox Farm is a unique attraction that offers tours and the opportunity to see these amazing animals up close.
The Willow Creek State Recreation Area is another great place to camp and hike, with a range of trails and scenic views. It’s located about 20 miles away from the Finger Lake State Recreation Area and offers a similar range of amenities and activities.
Nearby Attractions and Towns
- Wasilla: 30 miles away, restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores
- Iditarod Trail Headquarters: 20 miles away, learn about the history of the Iditarod Trail
- Musk Ox Farm: 25 miles away, tours and the opportunity to see musk oxen up close
- Willow Creek State Recreation Area: 20 miles away, camping, hiking, scenic views
Tips from Experienced Campers
As an experienced Alaska outdoorsman, I’ve learned a few tips and tricks that can make your stay at the Finger Lake State Recreation Area more enjoyable. First, be sure to arrive early to secure a campsite, especially during the peak season. The campground can fill up quickly, and you don’t want to be left without a place to stay.
Second, be prepared for the weather. Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable, and it’s always better to be prepared. Bring layers, rain gear, and bug protection, and be sure to check the forecast before you head out.
Third, take advantage of the scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Finger Lake State Recreation Area is a stunningly beautiful place, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Be sure to bring your camera and binoculars, and take time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.
Finally, be respectful of the environment and the other campers. Keep a clean campsite, follow the proper food storage and disposal procedures, and be mindful of noise levels. This will help to ensure that the campground remains a beautiful and enjoyable place for everyone to visit.
In terms of cell service, be aware that it can be spotty in the area. Verizon and AT&T have the best coverage, but even then, it’s not always reliable. Be sure to let someone know your itinerary and expected return time, and consider bringing a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB) if you’re planning to venture into the backcountry.
Tips from Experienced Campers
- Arrive early to secure a campsite
- Be prepared for the weather: layers, rain gear, bug protection
- Take advantage of scenic views and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Be respectful of the environment and other campers: keep a clean campsite, follow proper food storage and disposal procedures
- Cell service: spotty, Verizon and AT&T have the best coverage
I hope these tips and information have been helpful in planning your trip to the Finger Lake State Recreation Area. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, this campground is a must-visit destination for any Alaska outdoorsman. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!