Sanctuary River Campground

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Sanctuary River Campground is at mile 23 on the Denali Park Road. It offers 7 sites, making it the smallest in Denali (along with Igloo Creek Campground, which also has 7 sites). It is open May 20 to mid-September each year. Sanctuary is tent-only and accessible only by camper bus. The bus stop is a short walk from the camp sites—less than 100 yards (100 meters).

 

What to Expect at Sanctuary River

As you travel along the park road, from the entrance heading into the park, Sanctuary is the first tent-only campground. There is no potable water or electricity at this campground—you must bring a filter or purification tablets with you. Sanctuary River itself flows clear most of the summer, so you need not worry about silt or other sediment clogging your filter.

Sanctuary River is a heavily wooded campground, with screening between most sites. The immediate area is brushy, but nearby mountains offer chances to hike directly from the campground and gain elevation, with views of Denali to the south possible on clear days, after some strenuous up-hill hiking.

Small animals, like red squirrels and snowshoe hares, are commonly seen in Sanctuary. Larger animals, like moose, caribou and grizzly bears, are occasionally seen in the area, though not often in the campground itself. In some years, various birds can be found nesting in the area.

 

Campground Regulations

Necessities. Pit-vault toilets are near the campground entrance. No potable water is available - bring a filter or purification tablets. No fires are permitted at Sanctuary.

Be courteous. Quiet hours are between 10 pm and 6 am.

Wildlife & food storage. Keep all food and scented items (e.g., toothpaste, sunscreen, ice chests/coolers, etc.) in the food locker near the campground entrance. Label and date your items in the food locker. Keep a clean camp and wash your dishes immediately. Learn more about wildlife safety.

Fire. Fires are not permitted in Sanctuary River. You must use a camping stove to cook meals.

Pets. Pets are not permitted on camper buses. Learn more about camping with your pets.

 

 

The map above illustrates the relative locations of campgrounds and visitor centers in Denali. Zoom in to see details like campground loop roads. Hover over any icon to see what its proper name is.