RV camping near Gakona, Alaska offers opportunities for both full hookup sites and primitive options in this Interior Alaska region where the Copper and Gakona Rivers meet. The area sits at the junction of the Glenn and Richardson Highways, approximately 200 miles northeast of Anchorage, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-75°F. Mosquitoes can be abundant during summer months, particularly at campgrounds near creeks and rivers.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for salmon and grayling fishing. At King For A Day Campground & Charters, one camper reported, "Fishing was good. Took us about an hour to land 4 sockeyes. Owners came down, gave us tips and offered to loan some gear we hadn't realized we needed."
Hiking to mud volcanoes: The 2-2.5 mile round trip trail to Tolsona Mud Volcanoes starts near Tolsona Wilderness Campground. "The trail is usually pretty swampy, so be sure to wear tall boots and dress appropriately for the weather," advised a visitor who completed the hike.
Creek exploration: Sourdough Creek offers walking trails and fishing opportunities. A visitor noted, "Sourdough creek campground has clean bathrooms. Fun River academy. At just $12 a night. Quite private space not on top of your neighbors. Walk in sites and ADA sites and walking tails though out campground."
What campers like
Private creek sites: Campers consistently mention the privacy and natural setting at certain campgrounds. At Ranch House Lodge, a visitor shared, "The sites are truly enchanting. Large, level, and open. The creek is right there and after staying elsewhere I could not help but compare how charming this campground is."
Clean facilities: Quality bathroom facilities make a difference for many travelers. One camper noted about Ranch House Lodge, "This campground has all others beat. Not just clean but decorated in moose motif and wood. Very cute. Trout and greyling were multiple but not large."
Family activities: Some campgrounds organize regular activities for kids. A visitor to Tolsona Wilderness Campground explained, "The owners maintain a camp store with basic necessities and also plan weekend activities and games for kids."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area close by early October. Northern Nights Campground operates "from May 1 to Oct 1" according to their listing, making it important to plan trips during summer months.
Variable site quality: Site conditions vary significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Dry Creek State Rec Area mentioned, "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."
Mosquito preparation: Bring insect repellent, especially in early summer. A visitor to Dry Creek noted, "Vault toilets, fire pits and picnic tables. But mosquitos were horrendous."
Tips for camping with families
Group sites available: Dry Creek State Rec Area offers dedicated group camping sections. One camper mentioned, "Cul de sacs site are really wide open but great for a group."
Water recreation: Sourdough Creek Campground provides boat access areas that families enjoy. A visitor noted, "Great boat access areas" and another mentioned the "fun river academy" available.
Budget-friendly options: State recreation sites often provide lower-cost alternatives. At Sourdough Creek, a camper shared it costs "$12 a night $6 for walk in tents, fishing and boat launch."
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Gakona RV Park offers complete services for RVs. A visitor mentioned, "Site had hooks ups and a picnic table to use."
Level sites: Finding level parking is crucial for RVs. At Ranch House Lodge, campers consistently mentioned the quality of sites: "Large level sites. Full hook up. No issues with water, electric."
Dump station locations: Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park provides electric hookups with a dump station but no sewer connections at individual sites. Located approximately 40 miles south of Gakona, it's a convenient option for RVers needing to empty tanks while traveling between destinations.
