BlueWater BaseCamp – the authentic Alaska home base you’re looking for
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes beloved local spots that are not crowded with tourists, then you need BlueWater BaseCamp in the Eklutna Valley, about an hour away from Anchorage.
Never heard of the Eklutna Valley? Well, that’s because it’s a very popular day trip or camping weekend with Anchorage area residents that isn’t typically on the busy visitor circuit – which is lucky for you, because if you’re looking for that perfect cozy year round Alaskan hideout to just be or to get out for some legendary outdoor recreation then this is for you.
Owners Teal and Russ have designed every element of this unique property from scratch to make their guests feel at home and have an Alaskan experience of their dreams. From the beautiful, light filled chalets with lots of little touches to make them absolutely perfect, to the community firepit, this is a place you’re never going to want to leave.
I’m a part time tour director in Alaska, so I spend a lot of time with my guests in big anonymous mediocre expensive hotels in the same places everyone else is going – so when I’m creating my podcast and articles here on Top Left Adventures, I love to share these incredible finds with you. Teal and Russ have created this beautiful and unforgettable retreat perfect for anyone who likes to go deeper and spend more time in local places in their travels.
I recommend booking directly with them, and you can save 5% on your stay by booking through my link. I get a small commission and not only does it not cost you anything, you save 5%!
Where is BlueWater BaseCamp?
BlueWater BaseCamp is located in the Eklutna Valley, which is about an hour driving from Anchorage near Palmer.
Do I need a car to get to BlueWater BaseCamp?
I recommend having a car to stay here, which gives you the freedom to explore the area and be on your own schedule.
That said, having a car is not absolutely necessary, BlueWater staff can connect you with transportation that will bring you out to the Eklutna Valley for an additional cost.
When can I visit?
A magical thing about BlueWater is that you can visit all year. Nearby Eklutna Lake is a popular summer destination for hiking, biking and kayaking with locals and in winter it becomes a winter wonderland for skiing, fat biking and sometimes skating when the ice conditions are right.
Is there WiFi or cell service?
Do not count on having cell service here or anywhere in the Eklutna Valley. You might have a bar or two here and there or you might not, so plan to enjoy being disconnected from your phone.
The chalets have WiFi, so you’ll be able to use your phone if you enable WiFi calling and texting.
What are the chalets like?
The chalets are absolutely beautiful. The small chalets are indeed small, but perfect for one or two people. The design has been intricately planned to the last detail to maximize space and feels downright luxurious.
Every chalet has a fridge and freezer, small chalets have kitchenettes and large ones have full kitchens. The beds are extremely comfortable and each chalet has big picture windows and a private wrap around deck and private bathroom in the chalet.
Wheelchair Accessibility
One of the most unique and wonderful things about BlueWater BaseCamp is the thoughtful design in the large chalets to accommodate guests with disabilities.
More thoughtful than the basics, the large chalets have barrier free entries, roll in shower, accessible sink, roll under table and switches and drawers at lower heights as well as the adjustable height bed on the main floor. The owners and builders attention to detail and inclusivity here are absolutely unmatched at any properties I have been to or heard of in Alaska.
Make sure to book the large chalet for these features, they are not all available in the small chalets.
In addition they also have an off roading wheelchair that guests can use during their stay to get our for more accessible adventures.
What is there to do near BlueWater BaseCamp?
The Eklutna Valley is a year round recreation area very popular with residents of the greater Anchorage area. From hiking to biking and kayaking (rentals available at Eklutna Lake) in summer to cross country skiing and ice skating in winter, this is the perfect place for outdoor adventure.
It’s also a pretty great place to just relax, enjoy the bonfire, meet new friends and just be for awhile.
Beyond the Eklutna Valley, at BlueWater BaseCamp you’re close to Palmer and Eagle River, which both have plenty of hiking opportunities and you’re close to the the intersection of the Glenn Highway and the Parks Highway, making it an ideal stop to break up longer drives across Alaska – such as from Anchorage to Denali National Park, Anchorage to Wrangell-St Elias National Park or Anchorage to Valdez.
What are the food and drink options?
An important thing to know about BlueWater BaseCamp is that it is not in a town – which is wonderful for getting away from it all. However, you do need to give a bit of thought to your meals.
All the chalets are equipped with kitchenettes and the larger chalets have full kitchens and when I stayed here I had breakfast and lunch in my chalet and it worked out perfectly. You can also order a charcuterie box from a local company through your BlueWater reservation to have in your chalet (highly recommended!).
There are wonderful restaurants a comfortable 30 minute drive away in Palmer or Eagle River – different directions but both about the same distance.
Other things to know
BlueWater BaseCamp also has a beautiful event space called the Gathering House and a property buy out option, this would be an incredible place to have a wedding or other celebration.
Listen to Teal and Russ on the Alaska Uncovered Podcast to share their story of building BlueWater BaseCamp and why they love the Eklutna Valley
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