Camping near 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!