Nancy Lake State Recreation Area

About

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area preserves one of the few flat, lake-studded landscapes in Alaska, offering exceptional paddling and fishing opportunities. Located at Mile 67.3 of the Parks Highway, the 22,685-acre recreation area features clear waters ringed by unspoiled boreal forests of birch and spruce. The signature Nancy Lake Canoe Trail system links over a dozen lakes via portages, with backcountry campsites and cabins along the route. South Rolly Lake Campground serves as the primary drive-in camping facility with 97 sites, accessible toilets, drinking water, and a small boat launch. Additional camping options include the Tanaina Lake Canoe Trail (18 backcountry sites) and Red Shirt Lake Trail (6 sites). Fourteen public use cabins ranging from $45-100 per night are located on Nancy, Lynx, James, Bald, and Red Shirt lakes, each equipped with wood-burning stoves, bunks, and outhouses. The recreation area supports diverse wildlife including moose, black bears, beavers, and loons. Winter activities transform the landscape with cross-country ski trails, snowmachine routes, and dog mushing opportunities. The nearby Nancy Lake State Recreation Site provides additional camping with motorized boat access to Nancy Lake.

Directions

From Anchorage, drive north on the Parks Highway (AK-3) approximately 67 miles. Turn west onto Nancy Lake Parkway at Mile 67.3. Continue 6.5 miles southwest to reach South Rolly Lake Campground.