Tangle Lakes Campground
4.7113 reviewsPO Box 147, Glennallen, AK, 99588
Tangle Lakes Campground
$6.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Fees include $20/night for standard nonelectric sites and $6/night for walk-in tent sites. Delta Wild and Scenic River usage is free. Rates may vary by season and reservation methods, with additional services incurring fees.
About this campground
Discover your perfect wilderness retreat at Tangle Lakes Campground, where 45 spacious campsites and 4 secluded walk-in sites await adventure seekers along the legendary Denali Highway. At milepost 21.5, this well-appointed basecamp offers essential amenities including fresh water pumps, clean facilities, and direct boat access to explore the stunning chain of pristine lakes. Interpretive panels throughout the campground reveal the fascinating stories of this breathtaking tundra valley, where crystal-clear waters connect in nature's own highway system.
Tangle Lakes Campground supports a variety of camping styles. It caters to RV campers, tent campers, and walk-in campers, with additional group camping options available.
Historical SignificanceStep back through millennia at this remarkable crossroads of human history, where the Tangle Lakes Archaeological District preserves evidence of over 10,000 years of continuous human presence. Ancient hunters once tracked caribou across these same ridges, while generations of indigenous peoples harvested the rich resources of land and water. Today's visitors walk in the footsteps of countless ancestors who recognized this special place as a vital corridor through Alaska's interior wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformation at Tangle Lakes, where mild summer days from May through September create the perfect backdrop for paddling, fishing, and wildlife watching. As autumn approaches, the tundra explodes in brilliant reds and golds, drawing photographers and nature lovers from around the world. When winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, adventurous souls arrive by snowmachine to discover a completely different world—one of northern lights, endless white horizons, and the profound silence of the Arctic wilderness.
ElevationHigh in Alaska's interior wilderness, Tangle Lakes Campground offers visitors a true alpine experience where the air is crisp and the views stretch endlessly across the tundra plateau.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, where narrow ribbon lakes reflect snow-capped peaks and the meandering Tangle River begins its journey through untouched wilderness. This stunning tapestry of water and tundra creates an ever-changing canvas—watch morning mist rise from mirror-still lakes, spot majestic moose browsing along shorelines, and witness massive caribou herds during their epic fall migrations. The surrounding hills burst with wildflowers in summer, while autumn transforms the low-growing vegetation into a photographer's dream of crimson bearberry and golden willow.
Geological RegionMarvel at nature's artistry in this spectacular glacially carved valley, where the powerful forces of ice age glaciers created today's interconnected system of jewel-like lakes. As part of the Delta Wild and Scenic River corridor, Tangle Lakes showcases Alaska's raw geological beauty—from ancient bedrock ridges to kettle ponds dotting the tundra like scattered gems. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve with each season, offering visitors a front-row seat to the ongoing story of Alaska's dramatic geological heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as three accessible vault toilets, accessible trails, and picnic areas.
Sites SizeThe campground offers both back-in and pull-through sites, suitable for longer RVs as well as standard-sized tents. There are also group camping areas.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest that privacy is limited due to 'not much brush or anything between the spots,' making the sites less secluded.
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose walk-in sites for tent camping or pull-through sites for RVs. Sites near the boat launch are ideal for kayaking and fishing enthusiasts.
Best CampsitesPopular for both tent and RV camping; walk-in sites are highly praised for seclusion. Specific site numbers not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific time provided.
Check-out
No specific time provided.
Stay Limit
The stay limit is undefined.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Number of guests per site is undefined.
Groups
Two group camping areas are available, suitable for larger gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features various back-in and pull-through options suitable for tents and RVs, along with a walk-in area for tent camping.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is typically open from Memorial Day (May 30th) to Labor Day (first week of September). Exact opening/closing dates are weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsScan and Pay onsite; Recreation.gov for related services like permits.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served. Expect high demand during peak seasons and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyThis is a Scan and Pay campground. Refunds and modifications are not allowed. Cancellation fees apply for reservations, with late cancellations forfeiting fees for the first night.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Tangle Lakes Campground provides an array of recreational opportunities in a stunning natural setting. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The campground's proximity to the Delta Wild and Scenic River also makes it a prime location for float trips.
Hiking
The Tangle Ridge Hiking Trail begins at the campground and is designated for non-motorized use only. It offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. One user described the trail as 'great for hiking.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Tangle Lakes Campground, with grayling being the most commonly mentioned catch. User reviews frequently highlight fishing as a major draw to the area.Boating
The campground features a paved boat launch, providing access to the Tangle Lakes and the Delta Wild and Scenic River. The area is popular for both recreational boating and as a starting point for the 30-mile float trip.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to moose and caribou, and wildlife viewing is a frequently mentioned activity. The natural surroundings provide ample opportunities to observe local fauna.Winter Activities
During the winter, the campground can still be accessed via snowmachine, providing opportunities for winter recreation.Water Sports
Kayaking is noted as a popular activity, as mentioned in a user review.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood should be brought as none is sold on-site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity may necessitate food storage precautions. Seasonal flooding or harsh winter conditions could pose risks.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and police station are in Glennallen, AK (~60 miles away); ranger station details unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Trash and recyclingThe campground features numerous bear-proof trash receptacles, ensuring safe waste disposal and a clean environment.
Proximity to water featuresCampground is directly adjacent to Tangle Lakes and Tangle River, providing ample opportunities for water-based recreation.
Common complaintsSome users report lack of privacy due to sparse brush between campsites. It is busy during holidays such as July 4th and Labor Day.
HostThere is a designated host site, although some reviews indicate inconsistent host presence during visits.
Campground Map
PO Box 147, Glennallen, AK, 99588
Driving directionsDrive along the Denali Highway to milepost 21.5 on the north side to reach the campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads and is situated on a major highway. Access may be subject to seasonal conditions.Nearby places
Glennallen, AK (~60 miles, approximately 1 hour drive)
Denali National Park (~140 miles, approximately 3 hours drive).
Nearby supplies
Supplies and groceries available in Glennallen (~60 miles from the campground).
Camper Reviews
4.7
13 reviews
Tangle Lakes Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Tangle Lakes Campground as a clean, well-maintained, and highly scenic location. It is frequently described as one of the best campgrounds in Alaska, offering a range of activities and ample space for both RVs and tents.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include excellent fishing, breathtaking views, spacious and level sites, a clean environment, and ample recreational opportunities such as hiking and kayaking. The campground's...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include limited privacy between campsites, lack of cell phone reception, and overcrowding during holidays such as the 4th of July and Labor Day.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing firewood for the provided fire pits. Additionally, visitors suggest arriving early during peak seasons to secure a spot, as the campground is often fully occupied.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is particularly popular during the summer months when fishing and hiking opportunities are abundant. Winter access is limited but possible via snowmachine.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'One of the top 5 campgrounds in Alaska! Views are breathtaking.' - Lentz Life Alaska
- 'Pleasant quiet campground on the scenic Denali highway. Great fishing and plenty of space for both rv and...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites are generally described as level and spacious, with both pull-through and back-in options. Walk-in sites are considered a good choice for tent campers. However, privacy is noted as lacking due...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features such as accessible trails and toilets are noted as positives, but no specific user reviews address accessibility in detail.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as 'super pet friendly' in one user review, highlighting its suitability for visitors with pets.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025