Camping sites near Gakona, Alaska offer opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in the Copper River Valley. Located at the junction of the Richardson and Tok Cutoff highways, the region sits approximately 1,400 feet above sea level and experiences warm summer days with temperatures often reaching the 60s and 70s. Winter camping is extremely limited with temperatures regularly dropping well below zero during December through March.
What to do
Creek fishing access: Sailors Campground provides direct access to the Gakona River where anglers can fish for native species. "I love this campground right on the Gakona River. Any time I've gone I've been the only one. Different types of sites, is very buggy in July," notes camper SJ D.
Mud volcano hiking: From Tolsona Wilderness Campground, visitors can access a 2-2.5 mile round trip trail to the Tolsona Mud Volcanoes. "Near the entrance to the campground is the trailhead to the Tolsona Mud Volcanoes. The trail is usually pretty swampy, so be sure to wear tall boots and dress appropriately for the weather," advises Erika D.
Watercraft launch: The Gulkana River Access point provides opportunities for boating and fishing. "Rock fire pits lined along the river. Bathrooms about 0.5 miles away up in a separate parking lot. Not a lot of privacy, but if you need a good place to sleep for a night on your journey up or out, this is a good choice. Free!" reports kaia S.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Camping alongside flowing water is a highlight for many visitors to Gakona area campsites. "We had the whole place to ourselves. Site #1 right next to river. Porta Potty for toilet but it was clean. Rocking cell service for Verizon and ATT. Late July zero mosquitoes," shares Jeff about his experience at Sailors Campground.
Historical elements: Ranch House Lodge offers unique historical attractions on its property. "What really sets Ranch House Lodge apart, though, is the history and character of the place. The owners gave us a tour of the property and shared its fascinating backstory. The lodge and grounds are filled with antique items— old cars, vintage washing machines, cash registers, and all kinds of machines true to the era when the lodge was originally built," explains Savannah C.
Clean facilities: Sourdough Creek Campground receives positive feedback for its maintenance. "43 sites, nice walking trail along the creek, firewood for sale $5 a bundle, great tent pads, walk in camping sites, recycling, bear proof trash, pull throughs, #13-16 handicapped, favorites 19-21, camp host on site $12 a night $6 for walk in tents, fishing and boat launch. Wonderfully clean campground with fishing and I loved the walk along the creek access," reports Shadara W.
What you should know
Mosquito conditions: Insect activity varies significantly by location and time of year. At Dry Creek State Rec Area, one camper noted "There were several available campsites in June. Some pull through. Vault toilets, fire pits and picnic tables. But mosquitos were horrendous."
Water issues: Several campgrounds experience drainage problems despite their names. "We camped here and enjoyed how it was close to town but we still felt like we're were far out. The sites are okay most of them have the picnic tables and fire pits in low areas where water collects so you can't really use them," reports Riley N. about Dry Creek State Recreation Area.
Site spacing: Privacy levels vary widely between camping areas near Gakona. At Northern Nights Campground, Allen S. observed "I spent a night here and have to say, not impressed. Basic. The sites are small and mostly unlevel. One dump station and the bathhouse was questionable."
Tips for camping with families
Scheduled activities: Some campgrounds organize events specifically for children. "The owners maintain a camp store with basic necessities and also plan weekend activities and games for kids," notes Erika D. about Tolsona Wilderness Campground.
Special celebrations: Ranch House Lodge goes above and beyond for special occasions. "They went out of their way to make our daughter's birthday truly special. Without us even mentioning it in advance, they surprised her with a thoughtful gift, decorated a space in their dining room just for her, and gathered to sing Happy Birthday," shares Savannah C.
Accessibility options: For families with mobility concerns, Sourdough Creek Campground offers "ADA sites and walking trails throughout campground," according to Melissa F.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites with water, sewer and electric are available at several campgrounds near Gakona. At Ranch House Lodge, MickandKarla W. found that "We chose back-in site 52 with full hookups (50/30/20 AMP) in their new back area both times. Backing in was easy, and we appreciated that the pad has two sewer hookups, with water and electric centered. Water pressure was decent, around 40 psi."
Site leveling: Several campgrounds receive mixed reviews regarding site levelness. Northern Nights Campground has "sites are small and mostly unlevel," according to Allen S.
Off-grid considerations: Ranch House Lodge operates with certain limitations due to its remote location. "This campground is essentially off-grid Alaska, with all the challenges and rules that come with that. For example, black tank flushing isn't allowed due to septic limitations, trash is burned on-site so flammable or unburnable items are prohibited, and the potable water may have some discoloration," explains MickandKarla W.
