About Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground
Overview This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to purchase and claim a site. Eleven maintained campsites are available at $10 per night. Payment can be made at a self-serve fee box located at the main pavilion. Visitors to Childs Glacier Campground and Recreation Area are instantly captivated by spectacular views of Childs Glacier, famous for its calving icebergs that once put on a great show. Other must-do activities in the area include hiking along the river and fishing for salmon. Childs Glacier was once accessible by road. In 2011 the dynamic nature of the Copper River washed out a section of highway at mile 36. Additional road damage occurred in 2018, washing out part of the road at Mile 44. Outfitters now provide tours and transport to the site. Recreation The Copper River boasts plenty of salmon. Wildlife watching opportunities include moose, grizzly and black bears. Lucky campers may spot bears fishing on the opposite side of the river. Recommended trails include Copper River and Childs Glacier North. Copper River Trail connects Childs Glacier Recreation Area to the historic Million Dollar Bridge following the shores of the Copper River. Childs Glacier North Trail begins north of the Million Dollar Bridge and leads hikers to the face of Childs Glacier. Facilities The campground is now suited for tents only. A portion of the campground and associated recreation area continues to be maintained, though trash must be packed out. There is a large covered viewing platform and covered pavilion, information boards, picnic tables, vault toilets, and a hiking trail. Drinking water is provided at hand pumps. Recreation Sites • Standard Nonelectric • Tent Only Nonelectric • Overnight Natural Features Childs Glacier Campground is nestled in the Chugach Mountains on the south coast of Alaska. Alder, willow, devil's club and fern make up much of the campground understory. Tall cotto
How to Get There
From Cordova, the campground is 48 miles east on the Copper River Highway just before the Million Dollar Bridge. Two sections of the highway at mile 36 and mile 44 are washed out, and access to the site now requires a boat ride or travel by air. Several outfitters provide transportation to the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 4 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground
Heading to Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground?
No central reservation system listed for Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10165215) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground?
From Cordova, the campground is 48 miles east on the Copper River Highway just before the Million Dollar Bridge. Two sections of the highway at mile 36 and mile 44 are washed out, and access to the site now requires a boat ride or travel by air. Several outfitters provide transportation to the campground.
How do I contact Childs Glacier Recreation Area and Campground?
You can reach the park at phone: N/A or email: N/A.
References & Official Resources
