Alaska is often referred to as the Last Frontier—and with little exaggeration. The state’s unique landscapes run the gamut from towering mountains and expansive forests, to  serene alpine lakes and rugged coastlines. With so much terrain to explore, it’s a camping enthusiast’s paradise. You don’t have to trek deep into the wilderness to experience the state’s wild side. Even near cities, wildlife encounters are quite common, with plenty of opportunities to see bears, moose, eagles, and whales in their natural habitats. There are dozens of campgrounds in Alaska that promise both solitude and an unforgettable adventure—no long approaches required. These frontcountry campgrounds are easily accessible and offer epic views. Here are five of our favorite frontcountry sites that rival many backcountry wilderness campsites.

Eklutna Lake Campground outside Anchorage

Lake Eklutna, located just 37 miles from Anchorage in Chugach State Park, is a sight to behold. Its turquoise waters are surrounded by dense forest and sweeping alpine slopes. Because it’s so close to the state’s most populous city, camping here is an easy way to sample Alaska’s dramatic and jaw-dropping scenery. Eklutna Lake Campground is a first-come, first-served campsite that fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Get there early to snag a site with lake views. Go for a paddle around Lake Eklutna; if you don’t have your own vessel, AK Paddlesports offers delivery and pickup for paddleboards, canoes, and kayaks right at the lake. If you prefer more land-based activities, check out the Twin Peaks Trail or the Eklutna Lakeside trail, which circumvents the lake.

Insider tip: The final 5 miles of the drive to the campground follows a twisty, winding road, and there’s limited cell phone coverage. Download any trail maps you might need ahead of time.

Riverfront Park in Talkeetna

While Talkeetna is known as the gateway city to Denali National Park, it may be more famous for its mayor, Stubbs (a cat). Campsites here are available for nearly every type of camper, but the best tent sites are those maintained by the city at the end of Main Street, right next to Talkeetna Riverfront Park. As the name suggests, the park and attached campground sit a stone’s throw from three fast-flowing glacial rivers: the Talkeetna, Susitna, and Chulitna. The park is also one of the best places in Talkeetna for epic photos with Denali in the background (especially on a clear day). Tent campsites start at $10 with a two-tent, two-vehicle limit. Tent and RV sites are also available at Talkeetna RV & Boat Launch.While they offer less direct access to mountain views, the riverbank vistas—especially at sunset—are equally stunning.

Insider tip: From May to August, you can fish here during the annual salmon run. There’s nothing like the thrill of catching your dinner fresh while you camp.

Byers Lake Campground in Denali State Park

Denali State Park is located just beyond its more famous big brother, Denali National Park. The state park’s 300,000 acres encompass everything from gentle streams to high alpine peaks and offer tons of opportunities for wildlife viewing. There are several campgrounds and RV parks to choose from, but one of the largest is Byers Lake Campground, which boasts more than 70 sites. Pick a spot with a lake view, and you’ll be able to watch the fog rolling off the lake right from your tent in the morning. Byers Lake has all the classic campground amenities—toilets, potable water, fire pits, and dump stations—as well as kayak rentals offered by Denali Southside River Guides. If you’re looking for an RV spot, consider nearby K’esugi Ken Campground, which has better access with large, pull-through sites and equally stunning vistas of the Alaskan range.

Insider tip: Split your nights between different campgrounds to access a wider variety of trails—without the crowds you would typically find in the national park.

Teklanika Campground in Denali National Park

Spread over 6 million acres of rugged terrain, Denali National Park epitomizes Alaska’s untamed wilds. There are six campgrounds to choose from inside the park. Teklanika Campground is one of only two that allow you to park next to your campsite. (Many of the other campgrounds are tent-only, with transportation available via shuttle bus.) A minimum three-night stay is required at Teklanika—giving you ample opportunity to bask in the vastness of the Alaskan forest and gaze up at the brilliant night sky. The nearby Teklanika River is the perfect spot to learn how to skip stones or see shooting stars plunge across the sky against the backdrop of the Alaska Range. To stay here, you’ll need proof of NPS approval, which comes as part of your camping registration, to drive your vehicle past Mile 15 (Savage Creek). 

If the three-night stay doesn’t fit in with your plans, consider the Riley Creek Campground. This is the largest of Denali National Park’s campgrounds with 150 sites. It’s also the only campground located immediately upon entering the park. Because of its size, you can often get lucky with a last-minute reservation (all camping needs to be reserved online before your arrival). 

Insider tip: All of Denali is bear country so if you plan to hang out by the river (especially past dusk), make sure you carry bear spray and never venture out alone.

Homer Spit Campground 

If you can’t decide whether you want mountain or ocean views, why not opt for a campground that gives you a little bit of both? Homer Spit Campground in Homer, Alaska, is a fantastic spot for breathtaking views of Kachemak Bay and glacial peaks of Kenai Peninsula. Nestled on the famous Homer Spit, the halibut capital of the world, this campground offers beachfront camping and easy access to great fishing spots. It also provides sites for both tents and RVs. Plus, the campground is just 4 miles from the charming town of Homer, which is famous for its artsy vibe and delicious seafood.

Insider tip: Wake up early and walk along the beach to catch eagles fishing in the spit. It’s also a great place to birdwatch, especially when the tide rolls out.