Sanctuary River Campground – Denali National Park

Nestled within the breathtaking Denali National Park in Alaska, Sanctuary River Campground is a **tent-only campground** that provides an intimate experience with nature, welcoming campers from May 20 to mid-September each year. This serene spot, located at mile 23 along the park road, offers a perfect retreat for those wishing to immerse themselves in the wilderness.

Campground Features

Sanctuary River Campground is distinguished by its accessibility primarily through **camper bus**, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere for its visitors. The campground hosts only **seven sites**, making it one of the smallest campgrounds in Denali, combined with the Igloo Creek Campground, which also features seven sites.

• Scenic Location: Enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and the possibility of sighting Denali on clear days after a challenging hike.
• Wooded Environment: The campground is heavily wooded, providing natural privacy with screening between sites, perfect for a secluded getaway.
• Wildlife Watching: Expect to see small animals such as red squirrels and snowshoe hares, as well as occasional sightings of larger wildlife like moose, caribou, and grizzly bears.

Amenities

While the campsite encourages a close-to-nature experience, it does come with essential amenities:

• Restroom Facilities: Pit-vault toilets are conveniently located near the entrance of the campground.
• No Potable Water: Campers must bring their own water purification tablets or filters due to the absence of potable water.
• Cooking Regulations: Open fires are prohibited; campers are required to use camping stoves for meal preparation.
• Food Storage: All food and scented items must be stored in designated food lockers to ensure safety from wildlife.

Important Regulations

To ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience, visitors should adhere to the following regulations:

• Quiet Hours: Maintain quiet hours between 10 pm and 6 am to respect fellow campers.
• No Pets Allowed: Pets are not permitted, especially on camper buses, to protect both wildlife and other visitors.
• Leave No Trace: Campers are expected to keep the area clean, ensuring all waste is properly disposed of and dishes are washed immediately.

Activities and Exploration

The campsite is a launchpad for various outdoor activities, including:

• Hiking: Adventure seekers will find trails leading to stunning mountain views and opportunities to connect intimately with the wilderness.
• Wildlife Observation: Engage with the rich wildlife of Denali, with various birds often nesting in the area during certain seasons.

Connecting with nature and experiencing the raw beauty of Denali National Park makes Sanctuary River Campground a unique destination for camping enthusiasts looking to escape into the wild.