18 Awesome Spots for Denali National Park Camping
While I was enamored with the awesome Denali National Park hotels that are available, I totally think that camping is the best way to see the park and to really enjoy it! For Denali National Park camping, you just want to make sure you have the right equipment since it can get cold at night. Bring extra blankets and your sense of adventure when camping here, especially when exploring more secluded sites like Savage River.
The best places for Denali National Park camping
This list includes options in the park and nearby ideal for Denali National Park and Preserve camping, starting with one of the best Denali campgrounds, Riley Creek.
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Riley Creek Campground
Situated right inside the park entrance near the Triple Lakes hike, Riley Creek Campground is one of the best Denali camping options. Riley Creek is also one of the biggest, including its own camp store, Riley Creek Mercantile. Riley Creek Campground is right off the highway, so it’s an ideal spot for those who enjoy being in nature without being too far from Denali Visitor Center and the park road. Stop by the visitor center for information on the tour bus and great hiking.
There are quite a few amenities at Riley Creek Campground, including an amphitheater, Riley Creek Mercantile, and food lockers. RVs and tents are welcome at the Riley Creek Campground, though there are some tent-only sites, so you’ll want to make campground reservations for Riley Creek beforehand, especially if you’re bringing an RV.
Savage River Campground
Savage River Campground is tucked away at mile 13 off Denali Park Road. It’s one of the seasonal Denali National Park and Preserve camping options, which is only open during the summer season. Savage River Campground is surrounded by a lush spruce forest, creating a tranquil environment for campers.
There’s no dump station found at Savage River, so it may not be ideal for RVers traveling from long distances. Though, there’s potable water available onsite year-round.
Grates are available at each Savage River campsite so that you can grill up meals during your stay. It’s a “grate” spot to roast a few marshmallows after hiking nearby trails. If you’re looking for a quiet camping experience, Savage River Campground off Denali Park Road is perfect.
Sanctuary River Campground
Noted as one of the smallest Denali campgrounds, Sanctuary River Campground has seven tent-only sites available for rent. Campers can enjoy a more intimate setting surrounded by thick brush.
Nearby, campers can enjoy the mountainous area, which requires a steep hike. Lovely views of Denali Preserve are available from the mountains, especially on clear days. Accessing the Sanctuary River Campground requires riding on a camper bus; no other vehicles are allowed.
This site is more remote, so a cookstove is required if you plan to have a few hot meals during your stay. The Sanctuary Campground is a great spot for intermediate or advanced hikers.
Teklanika River Campground
From May 20 through Mid-September, you can stay at this Denali National Park Camping area. It houses 53 sites for RVs and tent campers, making it the second-largest campground in the park. Staying at Teklanika River Campground means you get to break the park’s vehicle rules, though you’ll need to stay a minimum of three nights.
Typically, vehicles are not allowed to drive past the 15-mile marker on Denali Park Road. However, you can drive to the 29-mile marker where this campground is found with the expectation that your vehicle will not move your site until you’re ready to head home.
An amphitheater, vault toilets, potable water, and a fire grate at each site are available at Teklanika River Campground.
Igloo Creek Campground
Situated near mile 35 off Denali Park Road, Igloo Creek Campground is another smaller Denali National Park Camping area. With only seven tent-only sites, Igloo Creek ties with Sanctuary River Campground.
This backcountry campground is excellent for avid hikers as there are quite a few trails that start near the campsite. Toilets and food lockers are found at Igloo Creek Campground, though you must bring water.
This area is known for bear, moose, Dall sheep, and other wildlife sightings. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may catch some views of the wildlife on a hike. Dramatic views of the mountaintops will make you want to return to Igloo Creek repeatedly.
Wonder Lake Campground
The Wonder Lake Campground holds the title of the closest campground to the park, offering views of the majestic mountains. This campground offers some of the best camping in Denali Preserve.
A path leads directly to Wonder Lake, offering picturesque views. Pack a book and read alongside the lake as you take in the scenery. Wonder Lake Campground offers seasonal flushing toilets, an amphitheater, and seasonal National Park Service staff to answer any questions tent campers may have.
There’s only one downside to staying at Wonder Lake Campground – the mosquitoes. It’s best to wear a mosquito net from June through September to avoid these annoying insects.
Denali Grizzly Bear Resort
The Denali Grizzly Bear Resort off the park road is a great spot for camping in Denali long-term. Token-operated showers, laundry facilities, flushing toilets, and Wi-Fi (available for a charge) create a welcoming environment.
RV and tent campsites are available for rent along with tent cabins. These tent cabins are devoid of electricity but will protect you from the elements during colder months or rainier days.
The resort features a general store, gift shop, liquor store, and more. Denali Grizzly Bear Resort offers camping with all the modern amenities. Cabins and a hotel are also on the premises for those needing a break from tent camping.
Denali RV Park and Motel
As far as RV parks near Denali National Park go, this option is only a few minutes from the park entrance. Denali RV Park and Motel offers gorgeous mountain views due to its proximity to the park.
The friendly staff at this RV park will make you feel welcome and can even help plan activities for you or walk your furry friend (for an additional fee). WiFi, a laundromat, and a bathhouse with individual stalls are all found at this RV park.
Other amenities include full hookups, pull-through sites, and cooking areas outside. Grab a coffee from the main office before heading to one of the many available hiking trails.
Denali Rainbow Village RV Park
Denali Rainbow Village RV Park is nestled against Denali National Park, sitting only one mile away from the park entrance. This RV camping near Denali National Park offers easy access to shops, Denali restaurants, and tours found in the Denali area.
20-, 30-, and 50-amp sites are available for RVs with full and partial hookup options open. Each campsite offers a fire ring and picnic table to help craft and enjoy delicious meals. Other amenities include Wi-Fi (paid after the first 30 minutes), tidy restrooms, and supplies for sale.
The front office staff can also help book activities for you around and in the park, like ATV rides and zip lining.
Waugaman Village RV Park
This Denali National Park Camping RV site is super affordable, with pricing around $11 per night. This RV park is in Healy and provides campers with a tranquil, secluded environment. When it’s time to head to Denali Park for hiking, it’s only about a 15-minute drive away.
Clean showers await campers at this RV park, though you’ll need to bring quarters to get the showers working. This RV park also has cellphone coverage, which not many options offer.
Waugaman offers guests the possibility of pursuing multiple outdoor activities like rafting, fishing, boating, and hiking. It’s also near attractions like restaurants, shops, and more.
McKinley RV Park
Slightly north of Denali National Park lies McKinley RV Park. This (nearby) Denali RV park has an ideal location right next to the Healy gas station, so you can easily fill up your RV at any time.
Many attractions are within walking distance from this RV Park, including various restaurants and nightlife. It’s also nearby other campsites, boat launches, and recreation areas.
Amenities include 20- and 30-amp hookups, a dump station, sewer hookups, and a 24-hour store. This RV Park also features a few (11) tent sites that you can stay at if you don’t need an RV site.
East Fork Rest Area and Campground
If you’re on a tight budget but are interested in camping near Denali National Park, stay at East Fork Rest Area and Campground for free for a night or two.
Once you arrive at this Denali National Park camping site, you’ll have access to vault toilets. Choose from 10 available campsites which offer a fire ring and picnic table. There are no hookups here, so it’s best for shorter stays in an RV.
The campsites are tucked away in the forested area behind the rest area. You can enjoy the peaceful lake nearby as you fall asleep under the stars.
Carlo Creek Lodge
Staying at Carlo Creek Lodge includes sleeping in a rustic log cabin with free WiFi, laundry facilities, and a shower house.
There are lovely cabins nearby the creek, which offer the most tranquil environment and private bathrooms. Budget-friendly log cabins are available to rent, which include shared showers. Or, visitors can elect to stay in a lodge room.
This lodge (with heated cabins) is more ideal than a campground near Denali National Park during colder seasons. An onsite coffee truck with breakfast and lunch options is the perfect finishing touch to this lovely lodge.
Cantwell RV Park
RV camping doesn’t have to be overly pricey. Cantwell RV Park proves this notion with a $45 per night cost (including electricity and water hookups). Certain amenities are free during a stay, like the showers (open 24/7), a dump station, and Wi-Fi.
Friendly campground owners make guests feel welcome with hosted community get-togethers, smoked brisket, and fun banter once a month.
Ice, firewood, and other necessities are available for purchase at the office. August and September are great months to visit the RV park, as wild blueberries are growing and available to pick.
K’esugi Ken Campground
This is one of the most highly-rated Denali campgrounds tucked away in Trapper Creek, Alaska. Situated in a beautifully manicured space, K’esugi Ken Campground provides visitors gorgeous views of Denali Park.
Staying at K’esugi Ken Campground provides easy access to the park through two hiking routes – one easier and one longer and steeper. These paths are even paved, making them more accessible for kids and older guests.
Denali National Park camping at K’esugi Ken Campground includes spacious sites, a ranger station, pavilion, lake access, and more. Every campsite type is available here.
Nenana RV Park and Campground
Situated in a native Alaskan village, Nenana RV Park and Campground stands out from other campsites due to its excellent customer service and convenience. It’s also quite affordable, with prices listed at $15 per campsite (including shower).
This Denali RV camping spot offers unique amenities like a small mini-golf course, bicycles for use, movie rentals, arts and crafts, and more. It’s the perfect Denali National Park RV camping spot for families.
Water and electric hookups are also available, as well as hot showers, a dump station, and laundry facilities. Longer stays (over three days) also include a discount, though you’ll need to ask before booking.
Riverside Park City Campground
When hunting for camping near Denali, Riverside Park City Campground is one spot to keep in mind. While it’s a little further from Denali National Park (about one hour via car), it’s still a great campsite for families and solo travelers.
This Denali National Park camping option is great for RVs and tent camping. Visitors can choose between rustic campsites with no hookups or sites with 20-amp electricity and water hookups. Clean restrooms and hot showers are found here.
There’s also a small children’s playground so kids can stretch their legs after hanging out in the RV all day. Multiple trails are available to explore. This campground offers stunning views of Mt. McKinley during a stay.
Byers Lake Campground
Last but not least is Denali camping at Byers Lake Campground. This campground is set alongside Byers Lake, providing a serene and beautiful stay for visitors.
Byers Lake is one of the best campgrounds near Denali for picturesque views, as this campground is nestled near the base of Kesugi Ridge. This campground also features excellent hiking trails.
RVs and tents are allowed at the site. Both require fees to be paid via cash or check. Other amenities include kayak rentals, a dump station, and fishing opportunities. This spot is one of the campgrounds near Denali National Park that you should not miss out on!
Do you have any questions about Denali National Park camping? Let me know in the comments!
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