Alaska field viewing guide
Polar bear in Alaska — where & when to see them by RV
Ursus maritimus
Marine mammal dependent on sea ice for hunting seals
3peak months
2prime spots
Natural history
About the Polar bear
Polar bears are powerful swimmers and primarily hunt seals from sea ice. In summer they come ashore and may scavenge on bowhead whale carcasses near villages.
Where to look
Conservation status
See the Polar bear up close
When to watch
The best months to see the polar bear
Wildlife runs on a calendar. Here is the window when sightings peak in Alaska — plan your trip around the lit months, then check the local refuge or park report before you go.
Best months
Aug · Sep · Oct
Best viewed in fall near Kaktovik; check local tour operator and USFWS reports for current activity.
Plan the trip
Base your Alaska RV trip
Good to know
Common questions
Can you see polar bears while camping in an RV?
Not directly; you must join a guided tour from a hub like Deadhorse or Kaktovik.
When is the best time to see polar bears in Alaska?
Late August through early October, when bears wait for sea ice to form.
Make it a trip
Rent an RV or boat in Alaska
The rigs here are owned by local hosts. Browse what fits your route, or reach Alaska owners directly.
Browse Alaska rigsMore Alaska wildlife
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