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Tangle Lakes Campground

Fishing enthusiasts and paddlers will find direct water access at Tangle Lakes Campground, where sites sit on open tundra alongside multiple lakes and the Tangle River. Located at mile 21 of the Denali Highway, this Bureau of Land Management campground operates year-round with no reservation system and costs up to $20 per night.

The campground's tundra setting means no trees for shade or windbreaks, requiring campers to stay on designated paths to protect the fragile ecosystem. Hand pumps provide fresh water throughout the sites, and boat launches offer access to the lake system for fishing and paddling. A one-mile hiking trail follows the ridge above the western edge, and reviewers note wildlife sightings including bald eagles using lakeside trees as hunting perches.

Sites include picnic tables and fire rings, with some featuring raised grassy areas for tents. The remote location means limited cell service and no nearby stores. Kristen P. notes it's "always clean" with an "attentive host," though the area can get busy during major holidays. Pit toilets serve the campground, though they may require a walk from some sites.

Campers seeking more developed facilities can consider Fielding Lake State Recreation Site, located northeast with additional amenities.

Fee Info

FEE DESCRIPTION: $20 per site __All sites are on a first come first serve basis. The Tangle Lakes Campground opening and closing dates are weather dependent and may vary from season to season. May 30th Memorial Day through the first week in September (Labor Day) is typically when the site is accessible and open to the public. No fee for Delta Wild and Scenic River use.

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Map & DirectionsTangle Lakes Campground is located in Alaska near Gakona

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

63.0518401 N
146.0073548 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Firewood Available
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews7 Camper Reviews - Tangle Lakes Campground

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4.5

out of 5

7 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the stunning tundra location with beautiful lake views and wildlife viewing opportunities. Campers regularly cited the clean sites and basic amenities, though the primitive nature means no hookups or showers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do reviews say about Tangle Lakes Campground?

Tangle Lakes Campground receives high marks for its stunning panoramic views, cleanliness, and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained sites and attentive campground host. The unique tundra setting is highlighted as special, though it requires care to stay on paths to prevent damage to the fragile ecosystem. While the campground lacks tall trees due to its tundra location, the trade-off is exceptional scenery. Some visitors note the presence of biting insects in mid-August and the lack of cell service.

What activities can I enjoy near Tangle Lakes Campground?

Tangle Lakes offers diverse outdoor activities year-round. The area is excellent for fishing, with visitors reporting great catches. Water enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking and canoeing on the gorgeous lake. Numerous hiking trails explore the surrounding tundra landscape, and wildlife viewing opportunities abound. The area also has historical significance worth exploring. The campground's location at mile 21 along the Denali Highway puts it within reach of additional recreational opportunities, including a visit to Maclaren Lodge about 21 miles away.

Are there photos available of Tangle Lakes Campground?

Yes, photos of Tangle Lakes Campground are available online through various camping platforms including The Dyrt. These images typically showcase the campground's distinctive tundra setting, panoramic mountain views, and proximity to the lake. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the BLM (Bureau of Land Management) website, which manages the campground, or popular camping apps.

Where is Tangle Lakes Campground located in Alaska and how do I get there?

Tangle Lakes Campground is located at mile 21 along the Denali Highway in central Alaska. The campground sits directly on the tundra with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It's accessible by car from Anchorage, making it suitable for a 3-day road trip or longer vacation. The remote location means visitors should come prepared with extra supplies, as there are no services and no cell phone coverage. Weather can change rapidly, so bring appropriate gear including warm layers and rain protection.

What amenities and facilities are available at Tangle Lakes Campground?

Tangle Lakes Campground offers basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets. Most sites feature raised grassy areas ideal for tent camping. There are no hookups or services available, so campers should come fully prepared. The campground provides recycling facilities, and group camping sites are available for larger parties. An attentive host maintains the clean facilities, though bathrooms can be a bit of a walk from some sites.