Slana serves as a gateway to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park in eastern Alaska, sitting at approximately 2,080 feet elevation where the Glenn Highway meets the Tok Cut-Off. This remote area experiences subarctic climate with short, mild summers and long, severe winters. Camping options near Slana range from primitive roadside pullouts to established recreation sites with basic amenities, most accessible primarily from May through September when roads remain passable.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along Nabesna Road: Drive the 40-mile stretch into Wrangell-St. Elias National Park for exceptional wildlife spotting opportunities. A visitor at Nabesna Road Wrangell St. Elias National Park notes, "There are views for days on any clear day to the north and to the south. Hiking trails are easily found within a few miles and riding the road on your bike is also a great option."
Rock hunting at creek beds: Several waterways near Slana contain interesting geological specimens. One camper at Eagle Trail State Rec Area mentioned, "You can even find various garnets and interesting rocks within the creek," making this a rewarding activity for geology enthusiasts.
Primitive camping experience: For those seeking isolation, venture to more remote sites. A visitor described Porcupine Creek as having a distinctive wilderness feel, noting it "stuck out as beautiful place, felt like this is what you would see on tv shows like alone."
What campers like
Natural separation between sites: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Slana feature good spacing and natural barriers. At Porcupine Creek State Recreation Site, a camper observed "it's a lovely location with heavy foliage providing substantial privacy between sites, and several sites are adjacent to the creek."
Cell service availability at select locations: Limited connectivity exists at certain points along Nabesna Road. According to one reviewer, "There was also a small bit of phone service here at the parking area, as a matter of fact many hunters/fisher folks staying elsewhere stopped by regularly to check their phones."
Creek access for cooling off: Several pet-welcoming campgrounds feature water access. Sites positioned along creeks provide natural cooling options during warmer months, important for both humans and pets in areas without electricity or running water.
What you should know
Variable maintenance conditions: State recreation sites may have inconsistent upkeep. A camper at Porcupine Creek State Recreation Site reported, "Although the state currently lists the campground as open, visiting there in mid-June I found that it looked essentially abandoned. There was no fee collection, the toilets were locked, and the fire ring in the site I chose apparently had no fires since last year."
Road conditions require caution: Access roads deteriorate beyond paved sections. A Nabesna Road camper advised, "The road is paved and mostly good until mile 15 and then becomes a dirt road which is regularly maintained by the park service. Go slow as potholes and washboards are common regardless of the surface."
Limited services require preparation: Bring essential supplies when camping with pets near Slana. A reviewer noted, "The closest full services are in Tok about 45 miles away or further south in Glenallen. Just a word about groceries, they are far more expensive in Glenallen than in Tok so if you're coming that way, fill up!"
Tips for camping with families
Water safety considerations: Creeks near campsites can run high and fast. One camper mentioned the creek at Eagle Trail State Rec Area was "running a bit high and fast for decent fishing" during their visit, suggesting families should monitor water conditions closely.
Insect protection essential: Standard for Alaska camping, mosquito protection is necessary at pet-friendly sites. A camper noted "The mosquito situation was about normal for that part of Alaska (bring bug dope)," emphasizing the need for appropriate insect repellent for both humans and pets.
Weather-appropriate gear: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing and proper shelter. Multiple campground reviews mention the variable Alaskan weather conditions, particularly relevant when camping with children and pets who may be more sensitive to temperature changes.
Tips from RVers
High clearance vehicles recommended: Some access roads require appropriate vehicles. A Nabesna Road camper cautioned, "Driving further into the park is recommended only for high clearance, 4-wheel drive vehicles. It had rained very heavily recently during our time there in July and many of the creeks and washes were crossing the road."
Self-sufficient power systems necessary: No electrical hookups exist at most sites. One camper at Hart D Ranch Doubletree RV mentioned amenities unavailable elsewhere, making it notable among pet-friendly campgrounds near Slana for having electric hookups and water connections, unlike most primitive sites in the area.
Water management planning: Bring sufficient fresh water for both human and pet consumption. A camper advised, "come prepared with fresh water (you can fill some containers at the visitors center) and bring your solar panels and you'll have plenty of electricity."
