The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Denali National Park and Preserve

120 Reviews

Riley Creek Campground, open year-round, accepts pets throughout Denali National Park with defined pet policies that allow leashed dogs in developed areas. Located near the park entrance, this established campground offers spacious sites with picnic tables, fire rings, and drinking water while accommodating tents, RVs, and glamping options. The spaces at most pet-friendly campgrounds like Teklanika River and Savage River are secluded and quiet, creating a peaceful environment for visitors with pets, though some camping spots may be tight for larger RVs or trailers.

Denali's pet-friendly campgrounds provide access to limited areas where dogs can accompany owners, primarily on park roads and in developed campground areas. Pets must remain on leashes no longer than six feet at all times and cannot be left unattended. The nearby Denali RV Park and Motel and Denali Rainbow Village RV Park both allow pets and provide additional amenities like electric hookups and sewer connections for RV campers. Wildlife encounters are common near the campgrounds, with visitors frequently spotting caribou, moose, and bears, making it essential to properly manage pets. Temperature variations can be significant even in summer months, requiring proper preparation for pets with adequate shelter and warmth.

Map showing campgrounds near Denali National Park and Preserve, AlaskaExplore the Map

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Denali National Park and Preserve (16)

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Denali National Park and Preserve Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Denali National Park and Preserve

15 Photos of 16 Denali National Park and Preserve Campgrounds

Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Denali National Park and Preserve

120 Reviews of 16 Denali National Park and Preserve Campgrounds

  • Gillian H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Backcountry Entrance Units — Denali National Park

    Backcountry units near the frontcountry

    Backpacking in Denali National Park and Preserve in the wintertime is rough. Do not try it unless you know what you are doing. Everything in the area pretty much shuts down during the winter months! Do not expect a warm Irish coffee after the backpacking trek through the snow. On the plus side, everything is free! If you can get yourself out there you can go as far as you would like. I only got 1-2 miles from the sled dog kennels as my toes thought it was too cold to venture further. There are limited water supply areas and if you do want them you must be willing to trek a few miles in deep snow to get to them. I should mention that there’s lots of snow during the wintertime just one more time. Be prepared! i visited in October but for some reason can not change it to the proper month.

    BUT you also get the chance to see the northern lights so it’s a win.

    P.s. these units are very very different during the summer months and very accessible to tourists!

  • Gillian H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 9, 2018

    Backcountry Unit 31: Polychrome Mountain — Denali National Park

    Backcountry den

    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. The National Park service does a wonderful job making sure that only a certain amount of people are allowed in each unit within the park. In this particular unit (north side of the Toklat river into the polychrome mountains) I saw the most wildlife I have ever seen while out backpacking. We found an animal spine, saw a moose, got turned around by 3 bears chilling in our potential camp location, and then at the end of the trip also saw 2 more grizzlies less than 30 feet away. Note; do not go here looking for bears, they are dangerous creatures and should not be harassed/seeked out in the wild.

    If you do not trust your river crossing skills to the highest level, do NOT cross the rivers. My friend and I got stuck on the other side of the river with those aforementioned grizzly bears and had to camp an extra night in order to be able to cross the rivers as the water levels had risen. Backcountry adventures are inherently risky. Do not try them unless you are prepared. Bring bear spray, leave no trace, and ultimately experience the vast beauty that is Denali National Park.

  • T
    Jul. 5, 2021

    Teklanika River Campground — Denali National Park

    Tek Campground Experience

    Take your bikes or buy a bus pass. Only some spots had a view. The camping is close. Pets are not allowed on trails in the park- only roads. The camp was kind of noisy. Come here for the Denali experience but know it does not start with this campground.

  • abby E.
    Jul. 1, 2021

    Riley Creek Campground — Denali National Park

    Okay camping

    I wouldn’t recommend coming here if you have pets, as they’re not allowed on most of the trails.

    Super wooded area & not the best if you’re looking for amazing views.

    We came in June, the first week they were officially opened & we paid $30 and none of the bathrooms were open yet. Definitely wait until later in June if you plan to go!

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Jun. 7, 2023

    Wildthingz Dog Mushing

    Tent Cabin Camping at a Sled Dog Kennel

    Jake from the Dyrt here! This unique stay in Alaska trains dogs for sledding.  Check them out and make sure to leave a review on the Dyrt!

  • Cody M.
    Jun. 24, 2021

    Wonder Lake Campground — Denali National Park

    Million Dollar Views

    Yes, the mosquitoes are bad, but I honestly didn’t find them to be that much worse than elsewhere in Alaska. Liberal use of bug dope and I was able to stroll around and even sit outside and read without a head net. Excellent drinking water and, surprisingly, flush toilets. Two shelters for cooking afford social time with fellow campers. The first day I hid from the rain in my tent, the second was all clouds and fog, but the third morning… well, you simply have to go experience it yourself. Humbling to say the least.

  • Wes F.
    Jul. 22, 2024

    Waugaman Village RV Park

    Great stay but a little on the spendy side

    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. We stayed in camp spot number nine, which was a huge spot and perfect for our 32ft camper truck and three dogs. 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. The other down side is that it is right next to the GVEA power plant so you hear a bit of noise early in the morning from the loaders back up alarms and the plant just operating. The host was absolutely incredible and one of the most friendly host we’ve ever had. 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. The dump station unfortunately was on the wrong side when I left and I didn’t have a long enough hose so I had to go out circle and come back in just to dump my tank and luckily no one was in a camping spot so I was able to turn back around and leave. 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. I don’t want to discourage anyone from going here with the large price noise from the power plant and somewhat sketchy looking buildings on the property when you first arrive because it was a great stay and mostly quiet because it was so far away from the main road, and the host also made it worthwhile.

  • T
    Jul. 8, 2021

    Igloo Creek Campground — Denali National Park

    Decent Camgpround

    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. Only 7 campsites but pretty close together. No campfires or communal fire pit.

  • Sam M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 28, 2019

    Sanctuary River Campground — Denali National Park

    small and quiet

    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.  We took the shuttle bus in, since that's the only way to get there, stayed for a night and then moved on. There aren't many sites in this place, maybe 10 or so but they are spread out and nice. Only tent sites with no hook ups. Be prepared because there is no drinking water here so you need to bring your own or some way to purify it. You can't make reservations, its only walk ups.  

    We did one little hike while we were in the area which ended up being really nice. I would definitely recommend checking out horseshoe lake trail if you need an easy hike and want some nice views. I think it was about 2 miles without much elevation gain. 

    Although we didn't stay here for very long, just passing through Denali, it was a good experience and I would recommend the campground.

Guide to Denali National Park and Preserve

Camping with your furry friends near Denali National Park and Preserve offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Alaskan wilderness together. With several pet-friendly campgrounds available, you can enjoy the great outdoors without leaving your pets behind.

Tips for camping with dogs near Denali National Park and Preserve

  • At Riley Creek Campground, pets are allowed, making it a great base for exploring the park while enjoying the convenience of nearby amenities.
  • Savage River Campground offers a peaceful environment where you can relax with your dog after a day of hiking.
  • Ensure your pet is leashed at all times in Teklanika River Campground to keep them safe and respect wildlife.

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Denali National Park and Preserve

  • Enjoy scenic walks along the river at Savage River Campground, where you might spot wildlife while your dog enjoys the fresh air.
  • Take advantage of the hiking trails accessible from Riley Creek Campground, perfect for a day of adventure with your pet.
  • Explore the beautiful surroundings of Teklanika River Campground while enjoying a picnic with your dog at one of the designated areas.

Dog owners appreciate the amenities at these campgrounds

  • Riley Creek Campground features clean facilities and easy access to a mercantile store for any last-minute supplies you may need for your pet.
  • At Savage River Campground, you can enjoy well-maintained picnic areas and fire pits, perfect for cozy evenings with your dog.
  • Denali RV Park and Motel provides electric hookups and a dump station, ensuring a comfortable stay for you and your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Denali National Park and Preserve?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Denali National Park and Preserve is Teklanika River Campground — Denali National Park with a 4.6-star rating from 13 reviews.

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Denali National Park and Preserve?

TheDyrt.com has all 16 dog-friendly camping locations near Denali National Park and Preserve, with real photos and reviews from campers.

Keep Exploring