How much does camping cost at Paxson Lake Campground?

Camping fees at Paxson Lake Campground are $20/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Paxson Lake Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Paxson Lake Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Can I see photos of campsites at Paxson Lake Campground before I book?

Yes! Paxson Lake Campground has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve.

What is the best time to visit Paxson Lake Campground?

Paxson Lake Campground is open April 01 to October 01. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Paxson Lake Campground?

Paxson Lake Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Paxson Lake Campground have?

Paxson Lake Campground has 50 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Paxson Lake Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Paxson Lake Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Paxson Lake Campground?

Paxson Lake Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Paxson Lake Campground?

Popular activities at Paxson Lake Campground include Fishing, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Paxson Lake Campground

3.25

68 reviews

MP 175 Richardson Hwy

Top 4% in AKFall

Seasonal ranking by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Family FriendlyScenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:RV Camping Alaska

Quick Facts

2,585 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

50 campsites

Season

The Paxson Lake Camp...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Elevation by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Quick Facts

2,585 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

50 campsites

Season

The Paxson Lake Camp...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Recreation.gov Official Website

Get Directions

Elevation by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Paxson Lake Campground

$20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Paxson Lake : $20.00; Standard Site: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$6.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(907) 822-3217

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

MP 175 Richardson Hwy

Paxson Lake Campground

MP 175 Richardson Hwy

Weather at Paxson Lake Campground

Current alerts(1)

Paxson Lake Campground is located at MP 175 of the Richardson Hwy. The campground has 45 camp sites including 2 accessible sites and 5 walk-in sites near the shore of Paxson Lake. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Best Time to Camp at Paxson Lake Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers crisp, clear days, dramatic tundra and birch/alder color, and dramatically fewer bugs — making lakeside hikes and shoreline photography far more pleasant than midsummer. Daytime temperatures in September typically range from the low 30s to low 50s °F (0–10 °C) with nights often dropping below freezing, which also increases the chance of seeing early northern lights after dark. Boating and fishing remain good into early fall but with far smaller crowds than July; be aware that early-– Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 4% in AK

Listed as best season: crisp days, dramatic tundra/birch color and far fewer bugs—very pleasant for visits.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 01 to October 01. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The Paxson Lake Campground opening and closing dates are weather dependent and may vary from season to season. May 30th Mermorial Day through the first week in September (Labor Day) is typically when the site is accessible and open to the public.

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

About Paxson Lake Campground

Paxson Lake Campground sits on the shore of Paxson Lake in Alaska's foothills, managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The mid-sized campground offers tent and RV sites with lake access for fishing and boating. Campers praise the clean facilities and dramatic lakeside views, especially during fall when tundra and birch turn color and bug pressure drops.

The site contains 50 campsites total: First Loop—20 campsites (including accessible sites and a boardwalk to the lake); Second Loop—20 campsites plus 10 walk-in camping sites. There is also a host site and two universally accessible campsites.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers crisp, clear days, dramatic tundra and birch/alder color, and dramatically fewer bugs — making lakeside hikes and shoreline photography far more pleasant than midsummer. Daytime temperatures in September typically range from the low 30s to low 50s °F (0–10 °C) with nights often dropping below freezing, which also increases the chance of seeing early northern lights after dark. Boating and fishing remain good into early fall but with far smaller crowds than July; be aware that early-– Peak months: September, August, July, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation2585 ft above sea level

Weather data by Open-Meteo.com, licensed under CC BY 4.0, processed by Outdoorithm.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground fronts Paxson Lake at 2,585 feet elevation, with mountain views across the water. A boardwalk and foot trail lead from the first loop to the lakeshore, giving easy access for fishing and boating. The surrounding landscape is classic Interior Alaska: tundra, birch, and alder that turn dramatic colors in fall. Wildlife sightings are common, and the setting is consistently described as gorgeous and photogenic.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive panels dispersed throughout the site and a boater information cabin provide educational information; rules/map panels and bulletin boards are posted in each loop.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

AccessibilityTwo accessible campsites, three accessible vault toilets (of six), universally accessible toilets in loops, accessible trails, boardwalk to lake, and accessible trail/bridge connection between loops. One hand-pump well in the first loop.

Total Campsites50 campsites

Recommended SitesFirst Loop is best for lake access and accessible facilities; Second Loop contains 20 drive-in sites plus 10 walk-in sites and a trail/bridge across the creek connecting loops.

Best CampsitesLower-numbered sites (1–20) in the first loop are easier for larger rigs and offer the boardwalk access to the lake. The upper loop also has pull-through sites that reviewers confirm fit fifth wheels up to 36 feet. First loop has hand-pump water and universally accessible toilets.

Amenities available

RV Dump station – $10 fee for non-campers.

Potable water

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Paxson Lake Campground

Recreation opportunities center on lake and river access, boating, and on-site trails/interpretive features. The campground serves as the boat launch and put-in for journeys on the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River and includes interpretive panels and a boater information cabin.

Fishing4.0/5

Boating4.0/5

Large paved boat launch with parking for ~70 vehicles; campground is boat launch/put-in for Gulkana River.

Water Sports4.0/5

Lakeside access and boat launch make paddling and kayak trips convenient; used for river put-ins.

Biking2.5/5

No specific bike trails mentioned; campground loops and roads may allow casual biking.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Dramatic lakeside views, mountain backdrops and vivid fall colors; boardwalk gives good shore access for shots.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredNumerous bear-proof trash receptacles and food lockers are provided throughout the site.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Good to know

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, and timing, compiled by Outdoorithm from public reviews and operator information.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.3

68 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Paxson Lake Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviewers overwhelmingly rate Paxson Lake Campground very highly, describing it as a clean, quiet, and beautifully situated lakeside campground with great views and good value. Campers appreciate the well‑kept facilities, spacious sites (including for large rigs), and easy access to the lake and trails. The main drawbacks mentioned are heavy mosquitoes/flies in season and the lack of showers, hookups, and Wi‑Fi, which many see as part of its rustic character.

Review Summaries

Based on 68 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers consistently praise the stunning lakeside setting, describing the views as “gorgeous,” “fantastic,” and “spectacular,” with easy access for fishing, boating, and water recreation. The...

Based on 68 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaint is the intense presence of mosquitoes and other biting insects during the warmer months, with multiple reviewers saying you must come prepared or you’ll be “eaten alive.”...

Based on 68 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Multiple reviewers note that many sites are large, including pull‑through sites that handle big rigs and fifth wheels. One Recreation.gov reviewer advises: “If you have a larger rig, try sites 1–20...

Based on 68 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers strongly recommend bringing plenty of insect repellent and even a head net due to mosquitoes and black flies, especially in summer. Expect a rustic stay: there are pit toilets, a hand water...

Based on 68 reviews

Camper Quotes

“Quiet place by Paxson Lake. Stunning view. Cheap ($12 per night), no hookups, no shower but there are plenty of restroom facilities.” “Beautiful Campground in the middle of nowhere, Alaska. Great...

Based on 68 reviews

Accessibility Features

Several comments imply good access for larger RVs and trailers: the road in is described as “great for Alaskan standards” and the campground “easy to navigate, especially for large trailers.” Campers...

Based on 68 reviews

Reviews on Outdoorithm

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Paxson Lake Campground

$20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Paxson Lake : $20.00; Standard Site: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$6.00