Paxson Lake Campground

About

Paxson Lake Campground sits along the Richardson Highway at Mile 175, offering direct access to Paxson Lake in the heart of Alaska's Copper River region. The campground provides 50 sites split between two loops, including 10 walk-in tent sites and two ADA-accessible sites with raised tent pads. All sites include fire rings with grill attachments, picnic tables, and access to bear-proof food lockers. The facility serves as the primary put-in for floating the main branch of the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River, featuring a large paved boat launch with parking for 70 vehicles including trailers. A boardwalk connects the first loop to the lakeshore and boat mooring area. Six double-vault toilets are distributed throughout the campground, three of which are universally accessible. Potable water is available from hand pump wells. An RV dump station is on-site. The campground operates first-come, first-served with no advance reservations. Activities include boating, fishing, canoeing, whitewater rafting, birding, and berry picking in the surrounding area.

Directions

Located at Mile 175 of the Richardson Highway, approximately 10 miles south of the junction with the Denali Highway near the community of Paxson.