Cabin camping options abound near Cantwell, Alaska, located at the junction of the Parks and Denali Highways. At an elevation of approximately 2,200 feet, Cantwell experiences severe temperature fluctuations, with summer highs in the 70s°F and winter lows dipping below -40°F. The area serves as a gateway to both Denali National Park and the scenic Denali Highway, with many accommodations offering basic rustic structures suited to Alaska's climate conditions.
What to do
Hike Savage River trails: The Savage River area in Denali National Park offers accessible hiking options about 14 miles from the park entrance. A visitor notes, "You can hike along the river. We were lucky to have a grouse pair come into our campsite. We also took advantage of the ranger talk that was given in the evening" at Savage River Campground.
Visit the Denali sled dogs: Located near the park entrance, the kennels showcase working sled dogs that patrol the park in winter. "The kennels are a fun way to pass a few hours, checking out the pups that pull the dog sleds for the National Park Service in winter," suggests a camper from Riley Creek Campground.
Take the Mountain Vista Trail: This short, relatively flat walk offers mountain views when weather permits. "This site was peaceful and the Mountain Vista Trail was a short walk away," shares a camper who stayed at Savage River Campground.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain tidy restrooms despite heavy use. "The bathrooms were clean," reports a visitor to Savage River Campground, while another camper at Denali RV Park and Motel adds, "Showers were great. But the spots were tight and very close together."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area's abundant wildlife adds to the camping experience. A camper at Cantwell Lodge and Private Campground notes, "This is a great lil spot that loved to come visit every once and a while," likely referring to wildlife encounters.
Evening ranger programs: Educational talks enhance the national park camping experience. A Savage River Campground visitor mentions, "There's a great evening program each night with a ranger."
What you should know
Limited wifi and cell service: Connectivity is unreliable throughout the region. A visitor to Waugaman Village RV Park notes, "The campground when he first pulled into it and passed the office is a little sketchy because it looks like a somewhat rundown place but as you get farther back, the camp spots are nice and big power and water."
Cost considerations: Camping fees vary significantly between public and private options. "It was unfortunately $60 per night when we stayed the weekend of July 20, 2024. Most campgrounds I've ever been to are between five and $20 per night," reports a Waugaman Village camper.
Tight spacing at some RV parks: Many private RV parks near Cantwell, Alaska maximize capacity with minimal spacing. "This is one of those parking lot RV parks. There are a lack of options in Cantwell so if you want to hook up your RV this is probably where you will end up," explains a Cantwell Lodge visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Book a discovery backpack: Denali National Park offers educational kits for children. "If you have kids, be sure to check out a discovery backpack filled with activities and science kits they can use. Our 9-year-old loved it so much she asked for a science kit for Christmas!" recommends a Denali Rainbow Village RV Park visitor.
Consider shower timing: Facilities get heavily used throughout the day. "Try to shower earlier in the day for cleanest showers. Showers cost $4. You must get a token from the cashier," advises a Riley Creek camper.
Pack for temperature swings: Summer nights can still be cold. "We camped in a tent under constant daylight and got down to 40s between 3-5am," reports a Savage River camper.
Tips from RVers
Distance from highways: Some RV parks near Cantwell sit away from main roads. "We liked how the campground was not right next to the main highway going through Healy and Denali. It is about 3 to 4 miles off the main road," notes a Waugaman Village visitor.
Parking challenges: Many Cantwell area RV parks have tight sites requiring maneuvering skills. A visitor to Waugaman Village warns, "Spot number nine is at the very end on the right and thankfully no one was parked across the drive from us because I needed that whole spot just to back in my camper so if you don't know how to drive your rig I recommend not going here."
Utility locations: Hookups may not be conveniently positioned at sites. "Great stay, very clean and well kept," mentions a visitor to Cantwell RV Park, one of the few rv parks in Cantwell, Alaska with full hookups.
