Camping near Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, offers stunning views and a chance to connect with nature. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique charm.
What to do:
- Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. At Savage River Campground, one camper mentioned, "We spent 2 nights and used the Savage River Campground as a jumping off point to travel further into the park." The trails here lead to beautiful views and wildlife sightings.
- Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, head to Wonder Lake Campground. A reviewer said, "It has great fishing and hiking and just out of this world." You might catch something tasty for dinner!
- Wildlife Watching: Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. A visitor at Savage River Campground spotted caribou right at the river, saying, "As soon as we get there we spot caribou right at the river."
What campers like:
- Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. One camper at Wonder Lake Campground exclaimed, "Camping there with a clear view is an amazing experience." The stunning backdrop of Denali is hard to beat.
- Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the clean restrooms. A camper at Teklanika River Campground noted, "Super clean toilets that are located close to every site." This makes for a more comfortable stay.
- Community Feel: Campgrounds like Riley Creek Campground offer a sense of community. A visitor shared, "The sites in this part of the campground are more private," allowing for a cozy atmosphere while still being close to fellow campers.
What you should know:
- Mosquitoes: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially at Wonder Lake Campground. One camper warned, "The mosquitos are INSANE. Just unreal." Bring bug spray or a head net to stay comfortable.
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Teklanika River Campground, do not have electric hookups. A visitor mentioned, "None of the campsites offered electrical hook ups, so bring your solar panels." Plan accordingly for your power needs.
- Variable Weather: Weather can change quickly. A camper at Savage River Campground noted, "The weather is quite variable. We had sunny days with AMAZING mountain views and driving rain downpours." Be ready for anything!
Tips for camping with families:
- Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with ranger programs. A family at Wonder Lake Campground enjoyed the "nightly ranger programs," which can be educational and fun for kids.
- Space for Kids to Play: Choose campgrounds with spacious sites. A visitor at Riley Creek Campground mentioned, "Campsite was roomy and had the illusion of seclusion based on space between sites." This gives kids room to roam.
- Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at Savage River Campground highlighted the importance of being cautious, saying, "You can hear the river flowing and it can lull you to sleep."
Tips from RVers:
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Teklanika River Campground mentioned, "The spaces are very small," which can be tricky for larger rigs.
- Plan for Dump Stations: Look for campgrounds with dump stations. Riley Creek Campground has a sanitary dump, making it easier for RVers to manage waste.
- Bring Your Own Water: Some campgrounds, like Wonder Lake Campground, do not have water hookups. A camper advised, "Be sure to bring your own water," to stay hydrated during your stay.
Camping near Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and unique experiences. Whether you're hiking, fishing, or just soaking in the views, there's something for everyone in this stunning part of the world.