Map showing campground location near Denali National Park & Preserve, Alaska

Camper submitted image from Sanctuary River Campground — Denali National Park

Sanctuary River Campground — Denali National Park

Hikers and wildlife watchers access Sanctuary River Campground via shuttle bus only, as private vehicles cannot reach this tent-only site along the Denali Park Road. The National Park Service operates approximately 10 walk-up sites spread throughout the area from late May through mid-September, with no advance reservations accepted.

Campers must bring their own drinking water or water purification methods, as no potable water is available on-site. The nearby Horseshoe Lake Trail offers an easy two-mile hike with minimal elevation gain for those seeking day hiking opportunities. Sites lack hookups and electrical connections, making this location suitable for tent camping only. For additional options beyond the park road system, see camping spots around Denali National Park.

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Location

Public Campground

Sanctuary River Campground — Denali National Park is located in Alaska

Coordinates

63.72269868 N
149.47352781 W

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Access

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Site Types

Tent Sites

Features

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Contact

General Info

Reservations

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Drive Time

2 hrs 56 min from Fairbanks, AK

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1 Review

Sam M.

Legend

Reviewed Dec. 28, 2019

small and quiet

I camped here a few years ago when I was on an Alaska trip with my grandma. We were moving around a lot and this campground was just what we needed for one night. We took the shuttle bus in, since that's the only way to get there, stayed for a night and then moved on. There aren't many sites in this place, maybe 10 or so but they are spread out and nice. Only tent sites with no hook ups. Be prepared because there is no drinking water here so you need to bring your own or some way to purify it. You can't make reservations, its only walk ups.

We did one little hike while we were in the area which ended up being really nice. I would definitely recommend checking out horseshoe lake trail if you need an easy hike and want some nice views. I think it was about 2 miles without much elevation gain.

Although we didn't stay here for very long, just passing through Denali, it was a good experience and I would recommend the campground.

Month of VisitJuly