Wood-Tikchik State Park
00 reviewPO BOX 1822, Dillingham, Alaska, 99576, United States
Wood-Tikchik State Park
$350.00 - $350.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Each permit costs $350.00 regardless of the number of nights reserved. Price is adjusted at checkout. All permits are non-refundable.
About this campground
Spanning an awe-inspiring 1.6 million acres, Wood-Tikchik State Park stands as America's largest state park, offering adventurous souls an unparalleled journey into pristine Alaskan wilderness. This vast protected landscape beckons those seeking true solitude and untamed beauty, where camping is carefully managed through a permit system to preserve the park's raw, unspoiled character.
Wood-Tikchik State Park provides a wilderness-focused camping experience. The campsites are primitive, non-electric, and designed to offer solitude and a close connection to nature.
Historical SignificanceAs the crown jewel of America's state park system, Wood-Tikchik represents a monumental achievement in wilderness preservation. This protected expanse safeguards not only breathtaking landscapes but also centuries of indigenous heritage, where the Yup'ik people have sustainably harvested salmon and lived in harmony with the land for generations. The park stands as a testament to the enduring value of wild places in our modern world.
Weather and SeasonsThe park experiences dramatic seasonal transformations, from endless summer days perfect for fishing and paddling to crisp autumn landscapes painted in brilliant golds and reds. Weather can shift quickly in this remote region, with summer temperatures ranging from cool mornings to warm afternoons, while rain and wind remind visitors of nature's unpredictable power.
ElevationThe park's terrain unfolds like a geographic symphony, rising from pristine lakeshores through rolling tundra hills to rugged mountain ridges. This varied topography creates diverse ecosystems and microclimates, offering visitors everything from gentle waterside campsites to challenging backcountry routes that reward hikers with panoramic vistas of untouched Alaska.
Natural Features and SceneryTwo spectacular lake systems form the heart of this wilderness sanctuary, with the upper lakes—Nishlik, Slate, Upnuk, and Chikuminuk—creating a water wonderland connected by the meandering Tikchik River. Crystal-clear waters reflect towering peaks while dense forests give way to open tundra, creating a mosaic of habitats where brown bears fish for salmon, caribou traverse ancient migration routes, and golden eagles soar overhead. Each vista reveals nature at its most magnificent and untamed.
Geological RegionNestled within Alaska's dramatic Chugach/Southwest region, Wood-Tikchik encompasses a geological tapestry carved by glaciers, shaped by volcanic forces, and polished by countless millennia of wind and water. This remote corner of the world showcases interconnected lake systems, pristine rivers, and rugged landscapes that tell the story of Earth's powerful creative forces, offering visitors a glimpse into a world where wilderness still reigns supreme.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park does not explicitly mention accessibility features for individuals with disabilities. The remote and wilderness nature of the park may pose challenges for accessibility.
Sites SizeAll campsites have a maximum capacity of 10 people and are non-electric.
Sites PrivacyThe park emphasizes a wilderness experience, which implies a high level of privacy as there are restrictions on the number of parties allowed to camp at any one time.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations are not provided but campsites accommodate up to 10 people each.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Limited by permit terms.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 10 people per campsite.
Groups
Group camping is not specifically mentioned, though the maximum capacity of 10 people per site may limit larger group activities.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonNot specified; permits regulate the camping dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservation details are not provided; presumed to be managed by park authorities.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo indication of walk-up availability; camping requires advance permit reservations.
Cancellation PolicyPermits are non-refundable and cannot be assigned without approval. Failure to comply with permit rules results in forfeiture.
Amenities available
Firewood available
Activities you can enjoy
Wood-Tikchik State Park offers an array of recreation opportunities that cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, berry picking, photography, and boating. The park's focus on wilderness ensures that these activities take place in a pristine and natural setting.
Hiking
Hiking is permitted, though specific trails or difficulty levels are not outlined in the provided materials. Visitors are encouraged to explore the natural surroundings responsibly.Fishing
The park supports fishing activities. It is implied that fishing is a popular activity due to the park's numerous lakes and rivers.Boating
Boating is one of the listed recreational activities, and the park’s many lakes and rivers provide ample opportunities for this activity.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is likely to be excellent given the park's remote wilderness character; however, direct mentions of specific species or viewing areas are absent.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the wilderness area could provide opportunities for backcountry skiing or snowshoeing, though this is not explicitly stated.Water Sports
The park allows boating, but other water sports like kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Ground fires only allowed on non-vegetated gravel bars and beaches. Fires in vegetated areas must be contained in portable camp stoves.
Hazards
General hazardsNatural hazards include risks of backcountry travel such as serious injury or death. Visitors are warned to exercise diligence.
Weather forecast
54
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain
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
Ranger Station contact number is 9078422641. Nearest emergency services are likely in Dillingham.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out all trash and refuse. Burning or burying garbage and food scraps is prohibited. Proper disposal of waste is stressed to protect the park's natural environment.
Proximity to water featuresCampsites are near lakes and rivers: Nishlik, Slate, Upnuk, Chikuminuk, and Tikchik River.
Common complaintsNo user complaints are available in the source.
Campground Map
PO BOX 1822, Dillingham, Alaska, 99576, United States
Driving directionsAccess to the Upper Tikchik Lakes and Tikchik River generally requires an air charter. GPS Coordinates: Nishlik 60.4650N 158.9200W, Slate 60.4000N 158.9300W, Upnuk 60.3600N 158.8600W, Chikuminuk 60.2200N 158.9500W.
Access requires an air charter to reach the Upper Tikchik Lakes and Tikchik River. Remote wilderness location makes traditional road access unavailable.Nearby places
Dillingham is the nearest city, though exact distances and travel times are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Supplies would need to be procured in Dillingham, Alaska, though details on specific stores or distances are not provided.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Wood-Tikchik State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are not explicitly provided. The information emphasizes the park's wilderness character and the need for self-sufficiency.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects likely include the pristine wilderness, solitude, and opportunities for a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and photography.
Common Concerns
Potential complaints could include the lack of facilities (showers, toilets, potable water) and the challenges of accessing the park (air charter often required).
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should prepare to be entirely self-sufficient, packing out all trash and bringing adequate supplies, including water and a portable camp stove.
Seasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are mentioned, but accessibility and activities may vary due to weather conditions.
Camper Quotes
"Pack it in, pack it out." "Leave no trace of your visit." "The permit area is wilderness; risks of backcountry travel include serious injury or death."
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsites are described as non-electric, with a maximum capacity of 10 people, and suitable for a wilderness experience. Specific site highlights or drawbacks are not mentioned.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not explicitly addressed, but the remote and rugged nature of the park may make it difficult for individuals with disabilities.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and this could be a positive feature for pet owners. However, specific user experiences related to pets are not detailed.
Last updated August 10, 2025