Sanctuary River

About

Sanctuary River Campground offers one of the most intimate wilderness camping experiences in Denali National Park. With only 7 sites tied for smallest in the park, this heavily wooded campground provides natural screening between most campsites. The immediate area is brushy, but the surrounding mountains invite hikers to gain elevation directly from camp, where views of Denali to the south reward those willing to put in the effort on clear days. This is a true backcountry-style frontcountry campground. There is no potable water, so campers must bring filtration or purification. Fires are prohibited; all cooking requires a camp stove. Vault toilets and food storage lockers are located near the campground entrance. The bus stop is less than 100 yards from the campsites, making it one of the more accessible bus-only campgrounds. Quiet hours run from 10 pm to 6 am. Campers may stay a maximum of 14 nights per summer season. Five sites can be reserved in advance through reservedenali.com starting December 1, while two sites remain first-come, first-served and can only be booked in person at Riley Creek Mercantile or Denali Bus Depot.

Directions

Located at mile 22 on Denali Park Road. Accessible only by camper bus from the Wilderness Access Center. No private vehicles are permitted beyond mile 15. The bus stop is less than 100 yards from the campsites.