Paxson Lake Campground
4.2019 reviewsPO Box 147, Glennallen, AK 99588
Quick Facts
Price
$6 - $20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
50 campsites
Season
The campground is ty...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$6 - $20/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
50 campsites
Season
The campground is ty...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPaxson Lake Campground
$6.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Campsites cost $20 per night for drive-in sites and $10 per night for walk-in sites. Federal Senior Pass holders receive a 50% discount. An RV dump...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$6.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$26.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider907-822-7335blm_ak_gfo_general_delivery@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.20
Satisfactory
Based on 19 reviews
53 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsclean
Some mention
mosquitoes
"User reviews of Paxson Lake Campground are mixed. Positive aspects include its clean facilities, scenic views, and accessibility features. Common complaints involve bugs, small campsites, and limited lake access from most sites."
Fees & Passes at Paxson Lake Campground
$6 - $20/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: The campground has a stay limit, though the duration is not specified.
Cancellation: Cancellations may incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Paxson Lake Campground
Experience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Paxson Lake, where summer brings pleasantly moderate temperatures ideal for hiking, fishing, and paddling adventures. As daylight stretches long into the evening hours, be prepared with quality bug protection as mosquitoes thrive in these pristine wetlands during the warmer months. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though the campground closes for the season when temperatures plummet and access becomes challenging, ensuring visitor safety during Alaska's harsh winter months.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Peak season aligns with the summer months, particularly from late May to early September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: The campground is typically open from Memorial Day (May 30) to Labor Day (first week of September), with dates being weather dependent.
- Current Alerts: There are no specific active alerts at present.
About Paxson Lake Campground
Nestled along pristine waters, Paxson Lake Campground welcomes adventurers with 50 thoughtfully designed campsites that cater to every camping style. From the 10 secluded walk-in sites perfect for those seeking a more intimate wilderness experience, to spacious RV-friendly spots and 2 fully accessible sites ensuring everyone can enjoy Alaska's natural beauty, this campground serves as your basecamp for unforgettable adventures. Each site comes equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings for evening gatherings under the northern sky, while modern vault toilets and a convenient boat launch complete the amenities that make your stay both comfortable and connected to the great outdoors.
Paxson Lake Campground offers various camping options, including standard drive-in sites and walk-in sites. All campsites are first-come, first-served.
Historical SignificancePaxson Lake Campground stands as more than just a place to rest—it serves as the proud gateway to the legendary Gulkana Wild and Scenic River, one of Alaska's most treasured waterways. This ecological gem has drawn paddlers, anglers, and nature enthusiasts for generations, offering a portal into a landscape where pristine waters flow through untouched wilderness, supporting diverse wildlife and preserving the natural heritage that makes Alaska extraordinary.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Paxson Lake, where summer brings pleasantly moderate temperatures ideal for hiking, fishing, and paddling adventures. As daylight stretches long into the evening hours, be prepared with quality bug protection as mosquitoes thrive in these pristine wetlands during the warmer months. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though the campground closes for the season when temperatures plummet and access becomes challenging, ensuring visitor safety during Alaska's harsh winter months.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data awaits documentation, visitors will experience the characteristic terrain of Alaska's interior, where the landscape rises and falls in gentle undulations that create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to mirror-like reflections on Paxson Lake's crystal-clear waters, where the surrounding boreal forest creates a living frame of spruce, birch, and aspen that changes with each season. This stunning shoreline location offers photographers and nature lovers endless opportunities to capture Alaska's raw beauty, while serving as the launch point for epic float trips down the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River. Whether you're casting a line at dawn or watching the sunset paint the lake in shades of gold and crimson, the natural splendor here creates memories that last a lifetime.
Geological RegionSet within Alaska's vast interior region, Paxson Lake Campground occupies a remarkable position where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of lakes, rivers, and mountains. The surrounding boreal forest ecosystem thrives in this unique environment, where the campground's shoreline location provides direct access to both Paxson Lake and the headwaters of the renowned Gulkana Wild and Scenic River. This quintessentially Alaskan interior setting showcases the rugged mountainous terrain that defines the region, offering visitors an authentic wilderness experience in one of North America's last great frontiers.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe first loop includes universally accessible toilets, trails, and two accessible campsites.
Sites SizeUser reviews indicate that most sites are small and may not comfortably accommodate vehicles and tents for larger groups or families. Walk-in sites provide better access to the lake.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Some sites are described as clustered or small while others offer quiet and peaceful settings.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor lake access and views, choose walk-in sites. Campers with larger vehicles should consider early arrival due to space constraints.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
The campground has a stay limit, though the duration is not specified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum number of guests per site is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe site is organized into two loops: the first with 20 drive-in sites and the second with 20 drive-in sites plus 10 walk-in sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is typically open from Memorial Day (May 30) to Labor Day (first week of September), with dates being weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, with 50 total campsites. This includes 10 walk-in sites and 2 accessible sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations may incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Paxson Lake Campground can engage in several activities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. Wildlife viewing is possible but limited by accessibility. Seasonal challenges such as bugs may deter some activities.
Hiking
The first loop has accessible trails and foot paths leading to shore access and the boat mooring area. Users describe trails as well-maintained but minimal in scope.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available, but user reviews are mixed. While the lake hosts fish populations, one review mentions 'no bites' despite visible fish activity.Boating
The campground includes a paved boat launch as the starting point for floating the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River. User reviews highlight ease of launching and accessibility.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities for observing wildlife exist but are limited. Users mention bear activity via signage, emphasizing the need for caution.Water Sports
Boating and fishing are the primary water-based activities. Swimming is not encouraged due to lake conditions.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are reported as abundant during the summer. Bears are a potential hazard, as evidenced by visible bear signs.
Active alertsThere are no specific active alerts at present.
Weather at Paxson Lake Campground
-6
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely accessible in Glennallen, which is approximately 30 miles away, although specific details on hospitals or police stations aren't provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season aligns with the summer months, particularly from late May to early September.
Trash and recyclingThere are numerous bear-proof trash receptacles and food lockers available throughout the campground.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to Paxson Lake, with a boat launch and lake access trails.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the presence of mosquitoes, limited vehicle space at campsites, and the lack of hookups.
HostCampground hosts are described as friendly and helpful in user reviews.
Campground Map
PO Box 147, Glennallen, AK 99588
Driving directionsPaxson Lake Campground is located at MP 175 on the Richardson Highway. The road is described as 'great for Alaskan standards,' making it accessible for a wide range of vehicles, including large trailers. Visitors may need to watch for signage to the campground.
Driving access is via the Richardson Highway. The road is paved and described as easy to navigate. Seasonal weather conditions may affect road access, particularly during the off-season when the campground is typically closed.Nearby places
Glennallen: approximately 30 miles away
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, including water, may require a drive of up to 30 miles to other nearby campgrounds when onsite water facilities are unavailable. The nearest towns, such as Glennallen, may provide fuel and groceries.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.2
19 reviews
Paxson Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Paxson Lake Campground are mixed. Positive aspects include its clean facilities, scenic views, and accessibility features. Common complaints involve bugs, small campsites, and limited lake access from most sites.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the clean facilities, accessible picnic areas, and the ease of launching boats. The 'campground hosts were amazing,' and 'vault toilets were clean and stocked.' Scenic views...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overwhelming mosquito populations, limited lake access from most sites, and the small size of campsites. One reviewer criticized fire ring placement and orientation of...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing mosquito repellent and planning ahead for water needs. Walk-in sites are preferable for lake access. Users advised that the campground is suitable for short stays or as a...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are frequently noted for high mosquito populations and occasional blackflies. Seasonal availability of water remains inconsistent.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Nice quiet campground. Sites are pretty level, no water yet but that wasn't a big deal for us.' - Thomas Lamontagne
2. 'We’ve stayed twice and both times it was really miserable with all of the...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews highlight significant differences between walk-in and drive-in sites. Walk-in sites offer better lake access while drive-in sites are noted as small and less convenient.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are well-reviewed, with universally accessible toilets and trails available in the first loop. Users with specific needs may find the campground accommodating.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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