The best camping in Gates Of The Arctic National Park & Preserve, AK

The northernmost and second-largest US national park, Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve covers an area of over 13,000 square miles, most of it uncharted tundra. There are no campgrounds in this remote park, but backcountry camping is an option for experienced backpackers or those who go as part of a guided tour. No permits or fees are required for backcountry camping, but anyone who wants to camp at the park should attend an orientation at one of the visitor centers to learn about extra safety precautions that come with camping in the arctic.

Although Gates of the Arctic is open year-round, it’s usually blanketed in snow from September until May or June. That said, visitors who are equipped to brave the conditions from November through March have a good chance of being rewarded with views of the aurora borealis.  July and August are the best months to visit for hiking, backpacking, and float trips.

• Entering the park is free, but visitors should stop at one of the visitor centers for an orientation before heading out to explore.
• Campers should store all food, wrappers, and scented products in bear-resistant food containers, available to borrow at all of the park’s visitor centers.
• The Bettles Ranger Station and Visitor Center, the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center, and the Anaktuvuk Pass Ranger Station are only open from late spring until September, while the Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitors Center in Fairbanks is open year-round.
• Campfires are allowed, but due to the arctic conditions, you may struggle to find wood.