Resorts in Willow Island, Alaska

Camping

The Willow Island Resort is just off the South Parks Highway, and contains several campground options within its premises. Campers looking to spend time at the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area can stay at the Mat-Su Valley Park and Campground, while those interested in fishing, swimming and whitewater paddling can stay at Ron's Riverboat service RV Park. The campgrounds in the Willow Island Resort include amenities such as restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, picnic and barbecuing areas as well as rentable tents and cabins.

Several hiking trails surround the campground and the nearby lakes and rivers. Enthusiasts can backpack daily into the Alaskan wilderness along these trails, or simply use them as convenient routes to access the lakes and rivers. Campers can whitewater paddle and swim in nearby Willow Creek as well as access the river's popular fishing areas for salmon or trout. The river's peak fishing season runs from May through July when the salmon are spawning. Other activities in the Willow Island Resort area are skiing, snowshoeing and snowboarding.

Located near the Willow Island Resort, Nancy Lake is a haven for plant and animal life. Teaming with greenery and largely isolated from modern human development, moose, black bears and beavers are often visible in the area. Nancy Lake generally has a warmer temperature than most Alaskan lakes and is usually free of ice by the end of May. Visitors and campers can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, swimming and fishing in its pristine waters.

Denali State Park is another natural haven and recreational area close to the Willow Island Resort. Campers staying at Willow Island can enjoy trips to Denali's surrounding mountains and beautiful views of Mt. McKinley. The state park stretches across acres of Alaska's wilderness and serves as a wildlife habitat for many animals. Visitors can enjoy hiking, backpacking and sightseeing in the area and are allowed to bring leashed pets.