Matanuska Lakes State Recreation Area

The feel

Formerly known as Kepler-Bradley, this park sits at milepost 36.4 of the Glenn Highway, west of Palmer. The entrance is immediately inside once you turn north into Matanuska Lake. The lakes lie in old glacial crevasses between moraine ridges formed about 30,000 years ago.

The trails connect to the Mat-Su Borough Crevasse Moraine Trail System, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Farm and the University of Alaska Anchorage campus. Only electric motors are allowed on the lakes.

What to expect

Layout and setting

9 RV sites and 8 campsites on 6 acres among the lakes, with 6 picnic sites, toilets and water.

Check-in and stay

Camping limit is 7 days.

Fees and reservations

$20 per night. Sites are first-come. The picnic shelter is $60 per 4 hours.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are on site.

Season and access

May to September. Take the Glenn Highway to Mile 36.4 and turn north into Matanuska Lake.

Mingo says

Bring a rod and plan to paddle. Any motor on these lakes has to be electric.

Before you go

• Bring your own firewood, since none is provided.
• Expect a small campground; there are only 8 campsites and 9 RV sites.
• Call the DNR Public Information Center at (907) 269-8400 with questions.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.