« All Trips

Camp in the Alaska Outdoors with Indoor Luxuries, Whittier, AK

June 22, 2025 @ 5:00 pm - June 28, 2025 @ 8:00 am

Trip Navigation

Immerse Yourself in Alaska Life with temperate outdoor camping with Indoor Meals, Hot Showers, and Wifi in town!

Join us in Whittier, Alaska in the heart of the Chugach National Forest and Prince William Sound!

Volunteers will be making a tangible impact as they construct new trail, build sturdy retaining wall sections, step & run boardwalk, and clear brush.

Experience the true Alaskan way at primitive campsites near the trailhead–BUT–after a long day’s work, unwind with dinner at our city building a block from camp, complete with full kitchen and shower facilities.

In free time, volunteers have the option to hang at one of the many beaches or waterfalls, have a bonfire, hike, kayak, or choose from lots of tours (from fishing to jet skiing to Blackstone Glacier)! Whittier has been dubbed both the “City Under One Roof,” and “The Weirdest Town in America,” and we are excited to show you our slice of Alaskan paradise!

There is no experience needed to join a Volunteer Vacation! Your expert hosts will provide detailed instruction, tool demonstrations, and project oversight throughout the week. All you need is a willing attitude and to be in good physical condition to participate in moderate physical activity for approximately 6-8 hours a day with plenty of breaks, at your own pace. Find out more about what it’s like to join a Volunteer Vacation and other frequently asked questions here.

Register

Host

Whittier Parks & Recreation

Accommodations

Primitive Tent Sites

Hiking/Access

Volunteers will hike 1 mile (or a little less) in each direction from camp, around 2 miles a day. It is varied terrain through rainforest and high alpine, so rock, mud, and slick surfaces may be present. The trail will have elevation gain of less than 1,000ft.

Project Rating

Moderate

Minimum Volunteer Age

16

Maximum Group Size

12

Area and Attractions

Built as a secret military installation, Whittier is situated on the South Central coast, on the shores of the Chugach National Forest and pristine Prince William Sound. With a population of around 250, it is surrounded by rainforest, beaches, multiple glaciers in sight, tons of wildlife, and numerous waterfalls. Hiking, beach combing, biking, kayaking, fishing, glacier excursions, boating, jet skiing, and more are popular activities for residents and visitors alike. There are fishing charters, trips with Glacier Jetski Adventures, scenic/historic walking tours with Whittier Walks, and wildlife/glacier cruises with Philipps' 26 Glacier Cruises. There is a walkable harbor front with a coffee shop, 2 cafes, token showers, and a handful of local businesses. Pedestrian tunnels, sidewalks, trails, and bike paths wind throughout town, and it is a very scenic and close-knit community.

Accommodations Description

Volunteers will camp in primitive tent campsites close to the trailhead. Porta-potties are available in camp. A full kitchen and bathroom (with a shower) is available for dinner time in the city building after the work day. A coin-op laundry & diner with a full bar is across the street from the city building. Additional token showers are available 24 hours at the harbor. There is cell service for most carriers (especially AT&T), and wifi available at different locations around town. Volunteers need to bring their own tent and personal camping gear.

Travel

Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage, AK is the closest airport. Airport transportation will be arranged upon confirmation of the trip.

Location

Chugach National Forest
AK United States + Google Map