The area around Sanctuary River turns shades of yellow, orange and red in fall (mid-August)

Sanctuary River

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically opens May 20 and operates through mid-September, weather permitting. Reservations open December 1 for the following season.

Park Operations Altered Due to Pretty Rocks Landslide

Summer access to facilities and services in Denali remains altered due to the Pretty Rocks Landslide and the associated closure of the Park Road at Mile 43. Check here for more information on what to expect.

Denali Park Road Information

In summer, the Denali Park Road is open to Mile 15 (Savage River) for personal vehicles. Vehicle travel further into the park is limited to transit and tour buses.

About

Sanctuary River Campground sits at Mile 22 of the Denali Park Road in a heavily wooded area with natural screening between most of its seven tent-only sites. This remote campground is accessible only by camper bus, creating a peaceful wilderness experience without the presence of RVs or other vehicles. The immediate area is brushy, but nearby mountains offer opportunities to hike directly from camp and gain elevation. On clear days, after some strenuous uphill hiking, views of Denali are possible to the south. The Sanctuary River itself flows adjacent to the campground and can serve as a water source. With no marked trails in this area of the park, visitors have the freedom to explore the landscape using topographic maps and backcountry navigation skills. Five sites can be reserved in advance through ReserveDenali.com, while two sites are available only as first-come, first-served bookings in person at the Riley Creek Mercantile or Denali Bus Depot. Each site can accommodate up to three tents and eight people.

Directions

Located at Mile 22 on the Denali Park Road. Accessible only by camper bus from the Denali Visitor Center or bus depot. The bus ride takes approximately one hour from the park entrance. No private vehicles are permitted beyond Mile 15 in summer.

Nearby Campgrounds

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed No
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed No
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store No
Price $25.25

Vehicle

Max RV Length
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Email denali_info@nps.gov
Phone +1 (907) 683-9532

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

Photos

The area around Sanctuary River turns shades of yellow, orange and red in fall (mid-August)

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