Collage image showcasing BlueWater BaseCamp, featuring a cozy cabin surrounded by a forest, a group gathered around a campfire under string lights, and a modern interior shot with a bed and yellow chair. Text overlay reads: 'Full Review of My Stay at BlueWater BaseCamp' with the BlueWater BaseCamp logo that includes a mountain and pine trees.

BlueWater BaseCamp Review: Best Cabins Near Anchorage, Alaska

Bysydneybrown192 Hours

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Have you been Looking for the Best Cabins Near Anchorage? You Need to Check out BlueWater BaseCamp!

Having spent three unforgettable days at BlueWater BaseCamp, I can confidently say that this hidden gem is one of the best boutique retreats near Anchorage. With five trips to Alaska under my belt, and after staying at numerous lodges and cabins throughout the state, BlueWater BaseCamp stands out as one of my top recommendations for anyone seeking the perfect balance between seclusion and adventure.

Set against the stunning backdrop of Alaska’s wilderness, BlueWater BaseCamp offers a variety of cozy, comfortable cabins roughly 30-40 minutes outside of downtown Anchorage. The property is nestled within the Eklutna Valley above Anchorage, perfectly situated near some of the state’s most breathtaking outdoor activities, including fishing, hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.

As someone who’s explored Alaska extensively, I know the importance of finding accommodations that combine comfort with easy access to Alaska’s natural wonders. BlueWater BaseCamp does just that, offering not only an authentic wilderness experience but also the convenience of being a short drive from Anchorage, Palmer, Eagle River, and Eklutna Lake. If you’re on the hunt for the best cabins near Anchorage that offer tranquility without sacrificing adventure, BlueWater Basecamp should be at the top of your list.

In this blog post, I will share my personal experience staying at BlueWater BaseCamp, one of Alaska’s best new boutique retreats. I’ll provide an in-depth review of the cabins, amenities, and unique features that make this spot a top choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. You’ll also learn why BlueWater BaseCamp stands out among other accommodations near Anchorage and why it’s perfect for travelers seeking both seclusion and easy access to outdoor adventures!

My stay at BlueWater BaseCamp was part of a hosted experience in partnership with BlueWater BaseCamp, Palmer-based Revel Treks + Tours, Visit Anchorage and TBEX. All opinions and reviews are my own. This post also contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a commission. Should you choose to book through any of my links, thank you so much!

BlueWater BaseCamp – Best Cabins Near Anchorage!
This image shows a modern, boxy cabin with large windows and a deck featuring two blue chairs and a small plant, set in a forested area at Bluewater Basecamp in Alaska during the fall. The ground is covered with yellow and brown leaves, and the tall trees surrounding the cabin have bare or partially leafless branches, reflecting a serene and rustic autumn atmosphere.

BlueWater BaseCamp – Overview

  • Luxury Chalets – These cozy, well-appointed cabins offer comfort while staying close to nature, ideal for those who want both adventure and a relaxing stay!
  • Private Kitchens – Each cabin is equipped with a kitchen or kitchenette, allowing guests to prepare meals with convenience.
  • Modern Bathrooms – Full bathrooms with showers or soaking tubs add hotel-like amenities to the cabins!
  • Stunning Location – Nestled in Eklutna Valley, travelers can access beautiful hiking trails without having to drive too far!
Check Prices and Availability!

Where is BlueWater BaseCamp?

Bluewater Basecamp is roughly 30-40 minutes from Anchorage, providing an ideal escape that’s conveniently close to the city without feeling urbanized. It’s far enough away for travelers to feel fully immersed in Alaska’s natural beauty while still enjoying easy access to Anchorage’s amenities.

BlueWater BaseCamp is also a short 5-minute drive away from Eklutna Lake, a glacially-fed lake known for it’s stunning blue waters (the color of this lake inspired the name of BlueWater BaseCamp!). Here, guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, or simply taking in the views of the surrounding mountains and forests. I highly recommend watching the sunset on the shores of Eklutna Lake on a clear day regardless of the season; it’s truly breathtaking.

For those interested in exploring more of the area, BlueWater BaseCamp is also only 30 minutes from Palmer, Alaska. Palmer is a charming town known for its farm-to-table dining, unique craft brewery scene, stunning landscapes, and proximity to other attractions within the Mat-Su Valley. You can learn more about Palmer and some of the awesome things to do there in this blog post!

From BlueWater BaseCamp, travelers can easily access both city amenities and outdoor, off-grid adventures, making it a versatile base for a memorable Alaskan trip!

  • The exterior of Ranger's Roost Cabin at BlueWater Basecamp, Alaska, displays a charming, modern cabin with a dark gray exterior, a bright blue front door, and a wooden deck. The cabin is surrounded by tall trees and autumn foliage, offering a peaceful, secluded atmosphere in the Alaskan wilderness.
    Exterior of Ranger’s Roost Cabin at BlueWater BaseCamp
  • The bright and airy interior of Ranger's Roost Cabin at BlueWater Basecamp, near Anchorage, Alaska, shows a comfortable bedroom with large windows letting in natural light. The room is furnished with a queen-sized bed, a mustard yellow armchair, and modern decor, set against white wood-paneled walls, providing a serene, cozy retreat.
    Exterior of Ranger’s Roost Cabin at BlueWater BaseCamp

What types of Cabins are available at BlueWater BaseCamp?

At BlueWater BaseCamp, there are two main types of cabins depending on the size and needs of your travel party: small chalets and large chalets. I got to tour each cabin during my stay at BlueWater BaseCamp and they’re all extremely modern and well-appointed. I personally spent two nights in Twin Peaks Cabin, which is one of the larger family-style cabins. Continue reading for more details on the features of both the small and large chalets!

Key Features of the Small Chalets

The small chalets include The Mitre Cabin, Pepper Peak Cabin, Ranger’s Roost Cabin, Hideaway Cabin, and Bashful Peak Cabin. There are a few key difference between these cabins that are important to note.

The Mitre Cabin and Pepper Peak Cabin have a separate bedroom with a queen bed and closet space, plus a loft. There is a distinct living room with a couch, chair, and Murphy table. The bathroom set-up in these cabins includes a shower, toilet, and sink.

Ranger’s Roost Cabin, Hideaway Cabin, and Bashful Peak Cabin are all studio-style cabins with open floor plans, meaning the queen bed is part of the main living area rather than in a separate bedroom. These cabins feature a full bathroom with a sink, toilet, and a soaking tub with a shower.

Both Ranger’s Roost Cabin and Hideaway Cabin are dog-friendly, making this property a great option if you’re traveling around Alaska with your dog!

Key Features of the Large Chalets

There are three large chalets on the property: Bold Peak Cabin, Twin Peaks Cabin, and Bountiful Peak Cabin. All of these cabins can hold up to 6 guests with 3 queen beds inside.

Some of the main features of the large chalets include:

  1. Accessible first-floor layout, including a roll-in zero-threshold shower, roll-under sink, and adjustable first-floor bed
  2. Full kitchen, including a mid-sized fridge, stove, oven, microwave, coffee maker, and all necessary kitchen tools
  3. Loft-style second-floor layout, with 2 queen beds on the second level

Bold Peak Cabin is also dog-friendly, which is great if you’re traveling with your pet but need extra room!

BlueWater BaseCamp Amenities

This image shows the interior of the Gathering House event space at BlueWater Basecamp in Alaska. The room features large, floor-to-ceiling windows that provide expansive views of the surrounding forest. Modern, transparent chairs and white tablecloth-covered tables are arranged throughout the space, creating a bright and open atmosphere perfect for events. The natural light floods the room, highlighting the clean, minimalist design.
Interior of the Gathering House set up for an event

The Gathering House

The Gathering House at BlueWater BaseCamp is an incredible amenity for those looking to host group events like weddings, family reunions, elopements, or corporate retreats in the stunning Eklutna Valley.

The space is gorgeous and can hold seating for up to 75 people–the venue space also includes a fully equipped caterer’s kitchen and several hours of dedicated staff time. It’s a stunning property and it would be a fabulous place to hold an event or party!

  • Twin Peaks Cabin at BlueWater BaseCamp
  • Accessible roll-in style shower in the large chalets at BlueWater BaseCamp
  • Adjustable height bed on the accessible first-floor level of large chalets at BlueWater BaseCamp

Accessible Accommodations

There are several cabins at BlueWater BaseCamp that have fully-accessible first-floor layouts and features. This is an incredible feature of BlueWater BaseCamp and it allows guests with all types of abilities to get out into nature comfortably and safely.

Bold Peak Cabin, Twin Peaks Cabin, and Bountiful Peak Cabin all have roll-in showers with grab bars, and adjustable-height queen beds, making BlueWater BaseCamp welcoming for all guests.

This image shows an adorable puppy standing on a gray sofa inside a cozy cabin at BlueWater Basecamp in Alaska. The puppy, with soft white fur and dark patches, looks straight into the camera, adding a playful and heartwarming touch to the scene. The room is bright, with natural light streaming in from the window, showcasing the dog-friendly environment at BlueWater BaseCamp.
Esmerelda, one of the mascots of BlueWater BaseCamp, loves guests!

Pet-Friendly Cabins

The pet-friendly cabins at BlueWater BaseCamp provide a huge benefit to travelers who want to bring their furry friends along for their Alaskan adventure. For those traveling with dogs, finding comfortable, high-quality accommodations that welcome pets can often be a challenge. At BlueWater BaseCamp, Ranger’s Roost Cabin, Bold Peak Cabin, and Hideaway Cabin are designed to be dog-friendly, so you can enjoy your stay without leaving your pet behind!

This added convenience allows guests with pets to explore the beautiful Eklutna Valley with their furry friend by their side, whether hiking nearby trails or relaxing at the cabin after a day of outdoor activities. It makes BlueWater BaseCamp an ideal choice for pet lovers looking for both adventure and relaxation​! Teal and Russ, the owners of BlueWater BaseCamp, have two incredibly welcoming and loving dogs of their own (Ranger and Esmerelda), and they’re a ton of fun to play with!

🤩 Ready for an Alaskan adventure with a touch of luxury? 🤩 
Book direct and use my code SYDNEYAK for 5% off your stay at BlueWater BaseCamp!

This image shows the front of a yellow kayak on the calm, glass-like waters of Eklutna Lake in Alaska. The lake reflects the surrounding landscape, which features vibrant autumn foliage in shades of yellow and gold, with rugged mountains in the background, some capped with snow. The serene setting captures the beauty of fall kayaking in the Alaskan wilderness.
Kayaking on Eklutna Lake, only 5 minutes away from BlueWater BaseCamp!

Things to Do Near BlueWater BaseCamp

  1. Explore Eklutna Lake: Just a 5-minute drive from Bluewater Basecamp, Eklutna Lake offers stunning views of the surrounding Chugach mountains. Visitors can hike, kayak, bike, or ATV at Eklutna Lake!
  2. Hike Thunderbird Falls: A short, family-friendly hike (about 1.8 miles) leads to a beautiful waterfall. The trailhead is only 15 minutes away from BlueWater BaseCamp and the trail itself is mostly flat and easy, making it perfect for all skill levels! You can read more about the detailed stats and trail conditions here!
  3. Eklutna Historical Park: This cultural landmark is home to a fascinating blend of Native Alaskan and Russian Orthodox history. Guests can visit the historic St. Nicholas Church and see the unique spirit houses in the cemetery, learning about Eklutna’s rich cultural heritage. The Eklutna Historical Park is only about 15 minutes away from BlueWater BaseCamp!
  4. Visit Palmer: Located about 30 minutes away from BlueWater BaseCamp, Palmer offers a charming small-town experience. Guests can explore local animal farms, enjoy farm-to-table dining, or visit a local brewery while visiting Palmer. You can read more about all the things to do in Palmer here!

Revel Treks + Tours offers all-inclusive packages in partnership with BlueWater BaseCamp, and I HIGHLY recommend them! I explored Alaska with Revel on this recent trip and it was epic!

  • The exterior of Pepper Peak Cabin at BlueWater Basecamp showcases a charming cabin with a dark gray exterior and a bright blue front door. A wooden porch with stairs leads up to the entrance, and the cabin is surrounded by a serene forest with autumn foliage, offering a peaceful retreat in the Alaskan wilderness.
    Exterior of Pepper Peak Cabin at BlueWater BaseCamp
  • The bedroom at Pepper Peak Cabin features a queen-sized bed with white linens and bright yellow accent pillows. A colorful painting hangs above the bed, and large windows allow natural light to fill the space, offering views of the surrounding forest.
    Bedroom inside Pepper Peak Cabin at BlueWater BaseCamp
  • The cozy kitchen at Pepper Peak Cabin includes a small countertop with a Keurig coffee maker, microwave, and mini-fridge. Wooden shelves hold plates, mugs, and bowls, while a basket of local snacks and brochures, including one for Anchorage, adds a welcoming touch for guests.
    Kitchenette inside Pepper Peak Cabin at BlueWater BaseCamp
  • The bathroom at Pepper Peak Cabin in BlueWater Basecamp, Alaska, features sleek, dark stone tiles in the shower, paired with a black curtain and modern fixtures. A compact white sink with a black faucet is positioned under a round mirror, creating a clean and minimalist design.
    Bathroom inside Pepper Peak Cabin

Who would enjoy staying at Bluewater Basecamp?

Based on my personal experience staying at BlueWater BaseCamp and learning more about the property, I believe the following main types of travelers would instantly fall in love with BlueWater BaseCamp! These descriptions are by no means an exhaustive list of all the different types of travelers who would enjoy BlueWater BaseCamp. I simply provide these examples to help you envision what your future stay might look like!

Nature-Loving Families: Families who want a nature-filled getaway but still appreciate the comfort of modern amenities. They seek outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring Eklutna Lake, but also need spacious, cozy cabins with private kitchens and bathrooms for convenience. I recommend Twin Peaks Cabin, Bold Peak Cabin, or Bountiful Peak Cabin for families of up to 6 people!

Couples Seeking Adventure with Comfort: Couples who love to explore but also value staying in a beautiful, secluded space. They enjoy days filled with outdoor adventures and quiet, romantic evenings in a comfortable cabin near Anchorage. I recommend staying in Ranger’s Roost Cabin (this is my FAVORITE cabin on the property because of the abundance of windows and private location!).

Solo Adventurers Looking for Tranquility: Independent travelers who crave both solitude and adventure. They appreciate easy access to activities like hiking and kayaking while staying in a peaceful, fully-equipped retreat, where they can unwind and relax with stunning mountain and forest views. I recommend The Mitre Cabin for solo travelers!

Wedding Groups Seeking a Scenic Venue: Perfect for couples and their guests looking for a breathtaking, nature-filled wedding destination. Bluewater Basecamp can also accommodate weddings and events on-site, as there is a gorgeous event space located at the heart of the property! You can also do a property buy-out for the night(s) of your event for your guests to stay onsite.

This image shows a group of people sitting around a fire pit toasting marshmallows under string lights at BlueWater Basecamp in Alaska. The scene is set at night, with the warm glow of the fire and lights illuminating the surrounding trees. The group is enjoying a cozy campfire gathering in the forest, with one of the cabins visible in the background. The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, perfect for a night of storytelling and relaxation in the wilderness.
Enjoying a gorgeous fall evening by the fire at BlueWater BaseCamp

FAQs About Staying At BlueWater BaseCamp

Is Bluewater Basecamp family-friendly?

Yes, absolutely! BlueWater BaseCamp is definitely family-friendly. The largest cabins can accommodate up to 6 people in 3 queen-size beds. If your family is larger or you want a bit more space, I recommend booking multiple cabins side-by-side.

Is BlueWater BaseCamp dog-friendly?

Yes, BlueWater BaseCamp is dog-friendly! Ranger’s Roost Cabin, Bold Peak Cabin, and The Hideaway Cabin are all dog-friendly. You can filter your search on BlueWater BaseCamp’s website to show you which dog-friendly cabins are available during your preferred dates.

Make sure to keep your dog on a leash while exploring the property and clean up after any messes your pup leaves to keep the property beautiful and enjoyable for all!

Is there Wi-Fi or cell service at BlueWater BaseCamp?

Yes, each of the cabins come fully equipped with WiFi and the connection is strong. I was able to browse the internet, use social media, and check my emails while inside my cabin! Keep in mind that due to the location of some of the cabins, connectivity might be stronger in some cabins than others. I’d recommend reaching out to BlueWater BaseCamp to confirm which cabins will best meet your connectivity needs.

Are there any dining options on-site?

There are no restaurants or dining houses on-site but all cabins come fully equipped with kitchens or kitchenettes for preparing food. Upon request, guests can also add-on food items when booking their stay directly on the BlueWater BaseCamp website. The breakfast burritos and charcuterie boards are both delicious add-on options that can be awaiting you in the refrigerator of your cabin upon arrival!

Nearby Palmer and Eagle River both have several great restaurant and dining options, with plenty of restaurants offering to-go meals! If you’re coming from Anchorage or another town nearby, I recommend picking up some food from the grocery story to enjoy and prepare during your stay! The kitchens are fully equipped with all utensils you’ll need, and there’s even a coffee maker with the option to use ground coffee or pods!

Are the cabins at BlueWater BaseCamp heated?

Each of the cabins has a heater, and they definitely make the cabins extra cozy! It can take slightly longer for the larger cabins to heat up due to their size, but we were able to heat the whole cabin within 10-15 minutes!

🤩 Check Prices and Availability on BlueWater BaseCamp’s Website! 🤩
Use code SYDNEYAK for 5% off your booking when you book direct

My Final Thoughts About BlueWater BaseCamp

Staying at Bluewater Basecamp was truly an unforgettable experience. The location was perfect for spending a day at Eklutna Lake, just minutes away, where I hiked and soaked in the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

After a day of adventure, it was amazing to return, relax by the campfire, and unwind in the stunning tiled showers with rainfall showerheads (one of my guilty pleasures).

I also loved the open field near the Gathering House, perfect for stargazing–I couldn’t help but imagine how incredible it would be to view the northern lights under the right conditions! When I was there, we didn’t see the Aurora but we did see some epic constellations while stargazing!

This image shows a stunning night sky filled with stars, taken at Bluewater Basecamp in Alaska. The dark silhouettes of trees frame the bottom of the image, while snow-capped mountains are faintly visible in the distance. The deep blue sky reveals countless stars and a faint glimpse of the Milky Way, creating a serene and awe-inspiring view of the Alaskan wilderness at night.

Should You Stay at BlueWater BaseCamp?

BlueWater BaseCamp is the perfect spot to experience Alaska’s wilderness while enjoying luxury amenities. If you’re looking for cabins near Anchorage, Alaska, you’ve got to check out BlueWater BaseCamp. After staying at multiple properties across Alaska, I can confidently say that BlueWater BaseCamp is among my favorite places to stay in Alaska!

Book directly with Bluewater Basecamp and use code SYDNEYAK for 5% off, or you can also book your stay at BlueWater BaseCamp on Booking.com, Expedia, or TripAdvisor to secure your dates today!

If you enjoyed reading this review of BlueWater BaseCamp cabins near Anchorage, please consider supporting me via buying me a coffee! Whether you’re visiting Alaska for the first time and need to get a baseline of the best spot to stay near Anchorage, or whether you’re local to the area and looking to enjoy a stay-cation–I hope this review helped answer any questions you may have had about BlueWater BaseCamp! Any funds given in support of this blog help me continue creating engaging travel content and sharing my stories and experiences with you all. I appreciate any support you can give, whether it’s a simple “share” or buying me a coffee!

Ready to experience BlueWater BaseCamp for yourself?
Book your stay directly on BlueWater BaseCamp’s website and get 5% off with my special code: SYDNEY AK

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