Paxson Lake Campground

Star3.67
40 reviews
MP 175 Richardson Hwy

Quick Facts

Price

$6 - $20/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

50 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

RV Friendly

Opens Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Alaska site

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Paxson Lake Campground
$6.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees described in source include: Fee Station per night = $20 for all sites (Federal Senior Pass half price). Another section lists $15/night for...
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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
Provider
(907) 822-3217

What Campers Say

3.67

Mixed Reviews

Based on 40 reviews

53 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanrestrooms

"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."

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Fees & Passes at Paxson Lake Campground

$6 - $20/night

Campsite fees

Standard Site

Basic tent/RV spot

$20/night
Prices verified December 10, 2025

Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Alaska website.



About Paxson Lake Campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Paxson Lake at milepost 175 of the Richardson Highway, this BLM-managed gem offers 50 thoughtfully designed campsites spread across two loops, complete with modern amenities including potable water, a sanitary dump station, and accessible facilities. Whether you're launching your boat from the paved ramp, preparing for an unforgettable float down the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River, or simply seeking a peaceful lakeside retreat, Paxson Lake Campground serves as your gateway to Alaska's backcountry adventures.
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.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's crown jewel is its direct access to the shimmering waters of Paxson Lake, reached via a scenic foot trail and boardwalk that winds through the landscape to the water's edge. As the official put-in point for the renowned Gulkana Wild and Scenic River's main branch, adventurers gather here to begin their wilderness journeys, while the paved boat launch and protected mooring area welcome anglers and paddlers seeking to explore the lake's expansive waters. The surrounding landscape captures the raw beauty of Interior Alaska, where mountains meet water and wildlife sightings are part of the daily experience.
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Campsite details

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 CampsitesFirst 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.

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Reserving a campsite

Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo loops: First Loop—20 campsites, universally accessible toilets, one hand pump well, rules/map panels, boardwalk to lake. Second Loop—20 campsites plus 10 walk-in sites, toilets (one universally accessible), rules/map panels; a trail and bridge cross the creek between loops.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

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.
Hiking
Accessible trails, a boardwalk to the lake (located in Loop 1), a foot-trail shore access, and a trail/bridge connecting the two loops provide short hiking/walking opportunities within the campground.
Boating
Large paved boat launch with parking for vehicles and trailers (boat launch parking for 70 vehicles noted), boat mooring area, boater registration stand and boater information cabin; the launch is a starting point for floating the main branch of the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River.
Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive panels dispersed throughout the site and a boater information cabin provide educational information; rules/map panels and bulletin boards are posted in each loop.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed

Hazards

General hazardsOn-site bear-proof trash receptacles and food lockers are provided, indicating presence of wildlife (bears).

Weather at Paxson Lake Campground

-18
°F
Dec 11
Thursday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Humidity: 65%
Wind: 5.5 mph
Clear sky

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Good to know

Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash receptacles and food lockers available throughout the site.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Paxson Lake with boardwalk and foot trail shore access; paved boat launch and boat mooring area on site; starting point for floating the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River.
HostThe site includes a host site but the location is described as unstaffed. For general information call the main office at (907) 822-3217.

Campground Map

MP 175 Richardson Hwy
Located at Milepost 175 on the Richardson Highway (MP 175).

Reviews from booking and map sources

3.7
40 reviews
Mixed 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 40 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...
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Based on 40 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.”...
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Based on 40 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...
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Based on 40 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...
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Based on 40 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...
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Based on 40 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...
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Based on 40 reviews

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Last updated December 10, 2025
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