Riley Creek Campground – Denali National Park

Nestled just inside the entrance of Denali National Park, Riley Creek Campground is the largest camping area within the park, providing a stunning gateway to Alaska’s breathtaking wilderness. With a diverse range of amenities and spectacular natural surroundings, this campground serves as the perfect base for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Campground Features

• Spacious Campsites: Designed to accommodate both tents and RVs, sites can comfortably host vehicles up to 40 feet in length.
• Wildlife Encounters: Campers can expect to see an array of local wildlife, including moose and bears, alongside smaller animals like red squirrels and snowshoe hares.
• Convenient Amenities: The nearby Riley Creek Mercantile offers essential camping supplies, food, a shower house, and laundry facilities, making it easy for campers to stock up on necessities.
• Restroom Facilities: The campground is equipped with both flush-toilet and pit-vault restrooms, ensuring cleanliness and comfort for all visitors.
• Floor Plan: Each site includes a picnic table and fire grate for cooking and gathering around campfires.

Accessibility and Regulations

Riley Creek Campground is accessible from mid-May to mid-September, with limited services outside this period. During peak spring months, the campground can fill up quickly, so visitors are encouraged to plan ahead. Some critical regulations include:

• Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
• Generators are permitted only during specified hours: 8 AM – 10 AM and 4 PM – 8 PM.
• Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet, and pet waste should be disposed of properly.
• Fires are restricted to established fire grates to minimize environmental impact.
• A maximum of eight people is allowed per campsite.

Wildlife Safety and Food Storage

Due to the presence of wildlife, proper food storage is crucial. All food items, scented products, and garbage must be securely stored to minimize human-animal interactions. Campers should:

• Store food and scented items in hard-sided vehicles or secure food lockers located throughout the campground.
• Maintain a clean camp by washing dishes immediately and disposing of waste in designated trash containers.

Visitor Information

Riley Creek Campground features essential services like drinking fountains and water bottle refilling stations at the nearby Murie Science and Learning Center and Denali Visitor Center. Be mindful that weather conditions can affect the operational status of certain amenities, especially in early spring.

Planning Your Visit

Reservations for campsites can be made online starting December 1st of the previous year. It’s advisable to check the campground’s capacity, especially during the peak season, as spots fill up quickly during the spring months when the weather is at its most favorable.

Conclusion

Whether you are an experienced camper or new to the outdoor experience, Riley Creek Campground at Denali National Park offers a unique blend of adventure, convenience, and the call of nature. Enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes, the rich wildlife, and the camaraderie of fellow campers in a truly unforgettable setting.