Camping near Denali National Park

Camping near Denali National Park ranges from established campgrounds to more remote spots in the Alaskan wilderness. Riley Creek Campground sits inside the park with basic sites that include restrooms and drinking water, not far from the main visitor center where you can get information and join ranger programs. Teklanika River Campground lets you camp deeper in the park but requires you to stay at least three nights, which gives you time to fish in the nearby river. If you need RV facilities, Denali RV Park and Motel outside the park has full hookups and a place to empty your tanks. The area has many trails for day hikes and places to see wildlife like moose, bears, and caribou. Make sure you know the rules—you'll need permits for backcountry camping, and sometimes fires aren't allowed when it's dry. Book your site well ahead of time, especially from June through August when most people visit. Weather can change quickly here, so pack layers and rain gear even in summer. Spring and fall are less crowded but colder. The park runs shuttle buses that can drop you at different trails and viewpoints if you don't want to drive. Camping at Denali gives you a real taste of Alaska's wild landscape, whether you stay at a developed site or head into the backcountry.

Best Camping Sites Near Denali National Park (31)

    1. Riley Creek Campground — Denali National Park

    36 Reviews
    Healy, AK
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 683-9532

    "Riley creek is near the Denali National Park entrance. It’s also a short walk to the merchant store where you can shower or get basic essentials."

    "A perfect Campground for your stay in Denali National Park. Beautifully wooded sites allow for you to hear nature and feel like part of the wilderness."

    2. Teklanika River Campground — Denali National Park

    13 Reviews
    Denali National Park & Preserve, AK
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 683-2294

    "requires a road permit and you to park your car or rv and stay until stay complete. near a glacial river and one hour into Denali National park. has pit toilets and water. ranger talks posted. great for"

    "This campground is located at mile 29 of the denali park road so if you're taking the bus that's where you need to get off!"

    3. Savage River Campground — Denali National Park

    13 Reviews
    Denali National Park, AK
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 272-7275

    "This campsite was in the Savage River Campground in Denali National Park, just outside the bus station for the park transit and close to the bathrooms."

    "Savage river is a nice campsite that you can drive to in Denali National Park. It is also possible to see Denali from here. Mixture of tents and RVs"

    4. Igloo Creek Campground — Denali National Park

    2 Reviews
    Denali National Park & Preserve, AK
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 683-2294

    "Igloo campground is located a decent ways into the park. We were told mosquitoes were the national bird of Alaska haha. It is no joke at this campground. Be prepared for me."

    "site: walk-in. wooded. private. amenities: no water. small campground. attractions: creek. Denali park. hiking. wildlife. I would go camping here again."

    5. Sanctuary River Campground — Denali National Park

    1 Review
    Denali National Park & Preserve, AK
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 683-2294

    "I camped here a few years ago when I was on an Alaska trip with my grandma.  We were moving around a lot and this campground was just what we needed for one night.  "

    6. Backcountry Unit 31: Polychrome Mountain — Denali National Park

    1 Review
    Denali National Park & Preserve, AK
    10 miles

    $50 - $90 / night

    "Denali National Park and Preserve allows for backcountry camping. With that comes extreme risks as it is one of the most remote places that you can be."

    7. Roadside Camp on Parks Highway

    4 Reviews
    Healy, AK
    20 miles

    "Looking for a place to camp near Denali as main campground full. I don’t know why more people are not here! Have a great tucked in flat site."

    9. Denali RV Park and Motel

    4 Reviews
    Healy, AK
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 683-1500

    "Camp sites are close to each other, but the staff gave us two sites for the price of one to park my truck. The views are amazing, and the other campers were very respectful."

    "Spent the night as a drive thru from Fairbanks to anchorage. Was clean and well kept. Showers were great. But the spots were tight and very close together. No fires."

    10. Denali Rainbow Village RV Park & Motel

    3 Reviews
    Healy, AK
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 683-7777

    $999 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 31 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Denali National Park

129 Reviews of 31 Denali National Park Campgrounds



Guide to Denali National Park

Camping near Denali National Park, Alaska, offers a unique experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and wildlife. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own charm.

What to do:

  • Explore Denali National Park: The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. One camper mentioned, "Denali is awesome. Beautiful hikes, go see the sled dog demo, took a bus tour into the park past the point where no personal vehicles are allowed." This makes it easy to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and wildlife.
  • Rent ATVs: Just outside the park, you can rent ATVs for some thrilling adventures. A visitor shared, "Just outside the park we rented ATV and had a great time in the open lands."
  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. One camper noted, "As soon as we get there we spot caribou right at the river," highlighting the chances of seeing animals up close.

What campers like:

  • Secluded Campsites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered by the sites. One review stated, "The sites in this part of the campground are more private and there is a trail that connects it to the visitor center," referring to the Riley Creek Campground.
  • Clean Facilities: Campers often mention the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at the Teklanika River Campground said, "Super clean toilets that are located close to every site."
  • Convenient Amenities: Campgrounds like Riley Creek Campground have stores nearby for essentials. One camper appreciated the convenience, saying, "Well within walking distance to store, visitor center."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in summer. One camper at Wonder Lake Campground warned, "The mosquitoes are INSANE. Just unreal."
  • Limited RV Access: Some campgrounds have restrictions for larger RVs. A review for Brushkana Creek Campground mentioned, "If you have a long trailer or big rig only sites 18, 21, and 22 are very usable."
  • First-Come, First-Served: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Teklanika River Campground noted, "There will be enough sites for everyone with a reservation, but your choices might be limited if you arrive later in the day."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities like showers and laundry. One camper at Riley Creek Campground mentioned, "They have laundry and showers (need quarters)."
  • Plan for Activities: Engage kids with ranger talks and nature walks. A family at Savage River Campground enjoyed, "We also took advantage of the ranger talk that was given in the evening."
  • Pack for Weather Changes: Weather can be unpredictable. One camper advised, "Weather changing quickly!!" so be ready for anything.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Teklanika River Campground mentioned, "The spaces are very small. I have a 24’ trailer and there were not many spots I would fit."
  • Use Solar Power: Since many campgrounds lack electric hookups, consider bringing solar panels. A camper noted, "None of the campsites offered electrical hook ups, so bring your solar panels."
  • Plan for Bus Passes: If you want to explore the park, you’ll need a bus pass. One visitor explained, "To ride the bus, you must purchase a separate 'Tek' bus pass which is a one-time fee and good for the entire length of your stay."

Camping near Denali National Park, Alaska, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and wildlife. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can make the most of your trip!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Denali National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, Denali National Park offers a wide range of camping options, with 31 campgrounds and RV parks near Denali National Park and 6 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Denali National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Denali National Park is Riley Creek Campground — Denali National Park with a 4.6-star rating from 36 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Denali National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 free dispersed camping spots near Denali National Park.

What parks are near Denali National Park?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Denali National Park that allow camping, notably Denali National Park & Preserve and Denali National Park and Preserve.