Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Denali has its own online reservation system, where campsite bookings go live on December 1 for the following year.
- RV camping is only available at Riley Creek, Savage River, and Teklanika River campgrounds. No park campgrounds have electrical or water hookups.
- You won't be able to book a specific campsite; rather, campers choose sites upon arriva. Some campgrounds have campsite "types”—if you book a specific type, you'll need to choose an unoccupied site of the same type when you arrive.
When to Go
Denali is open throughout the year, though most people opt to visit in the summer months, when the bulk of facilities are open. The summer bus service through the park runs from May 20 until the second week after Labor Day. The Denali Visitor Center is only open in the summer months, but the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station and the Murie Science and Learning Center are open year-round.
Know Before You Go
- Private vehicles are only allowed in a small section of the road, and most of the park is only accessible on foot, by bicycle, or by hopping aboard one of the green transit buses (or by booking a tour on a narrated tour bus).
- Pets are allowed in campgrounds and on the main road, but not out in the wilderness.
- Visitors can collect dead wood ground or purchase bundles at the Riley Creek Mercantile. Fires are allowed in the Riley Creek, Savage River, and Teklanika River campgrounds, but are prohibited at Sanctuary River, Igloo Creek, and Wonder Lake.
Denali National Park & Preserve
See the tallest mountain on the continent at this Fairbanks-area park.
A 2-hour drive south of Fairbanks, Denali National Park protects Denali, the largest mountain in North America, and the area surrounding it. Spread out over nearly 9,500 square miles, this park attracts hikers, birders, and camping enthusiasts in the summer months and is a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the wintertime. Features include six campgrounds and three nature centers, and rangers give talks and lead hikes and sled dog demonstrations during the peak season. Most of the park is closed to private vehicular traffic, so visitors must join a narrated tour or hop on a transit bus to get from point to point.
A 2-hour drive south of Fairbanks, Denali National Park protects Denali, the largest mountain in North America, and the area surrounding it. Spread out over nearly 9,500 square miles, this park attracts hikers, birders, and camping enthusiasts in the summer months and is a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the wintertime. Features include six campgrounds and three nature centers, and rangers give talks and lead hikes and sled dog demonstrations during the peak season. Most of the park is closed to private vehicular traffic, so visitors must join a narrated tour or hop on a transit bus to get from point to point.
Activities in the park
6 campgrounds in Denali National Park & Preserve
The big draw to Wonder Lake Campground in Denali are the views. On a clear day, visitors are rewarded with the sight of the breathtaking Mount McKinley. The surrounding landscape is wet, so although off-trail hiking is permitted, it can be pretty boggy. There are many mosquitos in the summer, so definitely bring repellant, and maybe even a head ne Read more...
Iglooo Creek Campground is set in the stunning foothills of both the Cathedral and Igloo Mountains. This string of primitive campsites offer beguiling views of the area’s breathtaking scenery. And it helps that the fishing in the eponymous creek is also sublime. So, go ahead, pack up your tackle box and head-out for a long weekend of nothing but y Read more...
Teklanika River Campground, “Tek” for short, is shaded by forest and offers privacy between campsites. Much of the surrounding land is brushy and wet, but you can comfortably hike on the flat, gravel surface next to the cascading Tek River. You’ll definitely see some little critters like red squirrels and snowshoe hares, and if you’re lucky, you c Read more...
Nestled beside the rightly named Sanctuary River, Sanctuary River Campground is set alongside the dew swept, well-manicured river beds, inundated by healthy populations of game fish. Aside from the aquafauna, Sanctuary River Campground is hoofed by large quadrupeds like elk and moose too; all the campsites in the campground are primitive in nature Read more...
If you’re searching for stunning water and mountain views, look no further! Savage River Campground is surrounded by forest, offering shade and privacy for campers. A short walk down an old gravel road leads to a clearing with beautiful views of Savage River. On a clear day, visitors can see the imposing Mount McKinley in the distance. Pretty cool Read more...
Riley Creek Campground is great for groups and families looking for both convenience and the rugged beauty of Alaska’s Denali National Park. The campground is conveniently located near the highway, but you might hear some traffic noise. This area is wooded, with some privacy between campsites, and just steps from Riley Creek. You’ll find a general Read more...
Why can't I see these campgrounds when I search with dates?
Notable Campgrounds
Notable Campgrounds
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Denali is open throughout the year, though most people opt to visit in the summer months, when the bulk of facilities are open. The summer bus service through the park runs from May 20 until the second week after Labor Day. The Denali Visitor Center is only open in the summer months, but the Walter Harper Talkeetna Ranger Station and the Murie Science and Learning Center are open year-round.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to camp in Denali National Park?
Camping fees in Denali National Park and Preserve vary depending on the campground and type of site you choose. Here are some examples of the fees for different campgrounds within the park:
Please note that these fees are for individual sites and can change depending on the season. Group sites and cabins may have different fees. In addition to the campsite fees, you may also need to pay for a park entrance fee or bus ticket if you plan to explore deeper into the park.
Which campground is best in Denali National Park?
Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska offers various campgrounds, each with its own unique features and attractions. One of the best campgrounds is Riley Creek Campground. It is conveniently located near the park entrance, has easy access to park facilities, and offers a mix of tent and RV sites. Additionally, it is open year-round, making it a popular choice for visitors.
Another great option is the Teklanika River Campground, which is situated deeper within the park and offers a more remote experience. This campground requires a minimum 3-night stay and a Teklanika Campground Pass for your vehicle, but it provides a more immersive Denali experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing and access to the Teklanika River.
Ultimately, the best campground for you will depend on your preferences, desired level of amenities, and the type of experience you're looking for in Denali.
How do I reserve a campsite in Denali National Park?
To reserve a campsite in Denali National Park and Preserve, you'll need to visit the Recreation.gov website, which handles reservations for the park's campgrounds. There are six campgrounds in Denali: Riley Creek, Savage River, Sanctuary River, Teklanika River, Igloo Creek, and Wonder Lake. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance for the summer season, which typically runs from mid-May to mid-September. Campsites fill up quickly, so it's a good idea to book as early as possible.
Can you stay overnight in Denali National Park?
Yes, you can stay overnight in Denali. There are several options for overnight stays in and around Denali National Park and Preserve, including campgrounds, cabins, and other unique accommodations. The park has six campgrounds, ranging from tent camping to RV spots, with varying amenities. You can find more information about these campgrounds here. For a more unique experience, you can explore various accommodations in Denali State Park and nearby areas, including cabins, yurts, treehouses, vacation rentals, and more. Check out these options on Hipcamp.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —