Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Denali National Park & Preserve
Teklanika River Campground's pet-friendly sites offer wooded privacy with designated spots for both tents and RVs, making it a popular choice for Denali visitors traveling with dogs. Located 29 miles into Denali National Park & Preserve, this established campground requires a minimum three-night stay for personal vehicles. Riley Creek and Savage River Campgrounds also welcome pets throughout their facilities, providing fire pits, picnic tables and potable water. Pets must remain leashed in all developed areas of the park, including campgrounds and along park roads. The spaces at Teklanika are secluded, and the campground remains very quiet despite its popularity. For RV campers with pets, Denali Rainbow Village RV Park and Denali Grizzly Bear Resort provide additional options outside the national park boundaries with full hookup sites and designated pet areas.
Dogs are permitted on the park road and in developed areas but must be leashed at all times and are not allowed on trails, in the backcountry, or in visitor facilities within Denali National Park. Many campers find the Savage River Loop accessible for exercising leashed dogs, providing views of wildlife without venturing onto restricted trails. Outside the national park boundaries, nearby private campgrounds like Denali RV Park and Motel offer cabin accommodations that accept pets with additional fees. The riverbed near Teklanika Campground provides excellent opportunities for walking dogs along the gravel bar. Visitors staying at Teklanika can purchase a special "Tek Pass" for bus transportation further into the park, though pets are not permitted on shuttle buses. Bear activity is common throughout the area, requiring vigilant pet supervision and proper food storage to avoid wildlife encounters.
