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Legend
There are a couple of different ways to drive into the largest National Park in the US, Nabesna Road in the north, and the Richardson Hwy in the south of the park. Nabesna offers a multitude of FREE and beautiful parking/camping options along the 40 or so miles back to the end of the road. 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.
We camped at mile 19 at the double ended pull-out which has both a vault-toilet and trash/ recycling bins. At either end of this pull out there is a picnic table and small fire ring, though there’s enough space for many more camping vehicles or tents. 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. But, there are no electrical hook-ups or water spigots anywhere along this road, so 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.
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. 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. While we were able to get through many with our truck, we eventually turned around before reaching the end of the road.
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!
Legend
Distances are vast in the north country, and the drive back into this free campground will take at least an hour from the visitor’s center, but it’s worth it. Set along the banks of a small lake, each of the sites offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, and enough space between sites to feel like you’re there alone. Vault toilets, well water, and the usual picnic table and fire ring are the only amenities. Wide open sky, but no electricity, so bring your solar powered system!
Hiking, biking and paddling opportunities abound in the park, but bring your rubber boots because the ground is soft and many trails go through deep puddles. 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.
The closest full services are in Tok about 45 miles away from the Nabesna Road turnoff, or further south in Glenallen. Groceries are far more expensive in Glenallen than in Tok so if you’re coming that way fill up!
RangerGreat little campground well kept and maintained, both beautiful and stunning simply put..
RangerGreat time backpacking through this area? Highly recommend using all trails for an in-depth look at the trail
RangerSo I never knew that double tree dabbled in the RV side of things but then again you never can really tell what’s going on anymore sometimes I keep imagining my pup with me..
RangerThe thing about Rufus creek was just how great of a place it was while there. I completely felt one with Rufus creek
RangerThis place stuck out as beautiful place, felt like this is what you would see on tv shows like alone.. totally recommend the drive
GuideAlthough 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, as it was covered in dried leaves. Other sites were similar. Nobody else camped there the night I stayed. Overall it was a slightly creepy experience.
That said, it's a lovely location with heavy foliage providing substantial privacy between sites, and several sites are adjacent to the creek (which was running a bit high and fast for decent fishing the night I was there). The sites were large, with picnic tables and fire rings at each one. The mosquito situation was about normal for that part of Alaska (bring bug dope). Water is available, but boil before using.
Not sure what the heck is going on with its status but I would guess it's pretty nice when it's being maintained. That said, I'm not sure I'll be back - it's about 40 miles from the Eagle Trail SRS, which is really nice.
TravelerVery spacious campsite next to a creek. Plenty of area to explore.You can even find various garnets and interesting rocks within the creek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Slana, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Slana, AK is Porcupine Creek State Recreation Site with a 4-star rating from 2 reviews.
