Jim Creek Recreation Area (Butte)

Palmer

The feel

Jim Creek is one of the most popular attractions of the Knik River Public Use Area, a popular camping destination in the Palmer area of the Mat-Su Valley. The campground has 26 numbered campsites, and camping in the parking lot is not allowed.

Inside the campground, a 5 MPH speed limit applies to every vehicle, including ATVs and motorcycles, and travel stays on designated roads and within campsites.

What to expect

Layout and setting: 26 numbered campsites in the Knik River Public Use Area near Palmer, with no camping in the parking lot. Each site takes one family or group of up to four unrelated people.
Check-in and stay: Check-in is at 3 PM and check-out at 11 AM. One adult 18 or older from the party registers and stays on site for the first 24 hours. The maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights, with at least 72 hours away between stays and an annual limit of 45 nights.
Crowds and best time: Popular with campers and OHV riders. Quiet hours run 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM, and visitors leave by 11:00 PM.
Parking and rig size: Each site allows a maximum of two full-sized motor vehicles and one trailer.
Fees and reservations: $35.00 per night per site, paid before setting up. Reservations are required online through Campspot.
Dogs: Pets stay under immediate control on a leash no longer than six feet, and owners clean up after them.
Hazards: Fire restrictions apply, including red flag warning days. Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings no taller than three feet, with no pallet burning.
Bathrooms and water: Vault toilets at the trailhead, otherwise no facilities.
Season and access: May to September. Violations of the campground rules may lead to expulsion and permanent eviction from the campground and parking area.

Mingo says

Plan your fishing for late summer, when Jim Creek is known for strong fishing. Book your site online before you drive out, because reservations are required.