West Fork Campground
05 reviewsEastern Interior Field Office, MP 49 Taylor Highway, Fairbanks, AK, USA
West Fork Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground charges a flat fee of $12 per night. Payment can be made via an iron ranger fee-payment box or the Scan & Pay app. Cellular reception is unavailable, so the app must be downloaded in advance.
About this campground
Nestled at Milepost 49 along the legendary Taylor Highway, West Fork Campground offers adventurers a gateway to Alaska's untamed wilderness. This thoughtfully designed campground features two distinct loops accommodating 25 sites total—seven convenient pull-through spaces perfect for RVs and larger rigs, plus 18 cozy back-in sites ideal for those seeking a more intimate camping experience. During the summer months, fresh potable water flows freely, while immaculately maintained vault toilets and a traditional iron ranger payment station ensure comfort meets frontier charm. From your campsite, gaze across the tranquil oxbow lake where trumpeter swans glide gracefully across mirror-like waters and majestic moose wade through the shallows at dawn and dusk.
The campground supports a variety of camping styles, including RV and tent camping. There is also a designated site for cyclists and motorcyclists.
Historical SignificanceWest Fork Campground serves as your southernmost portal to the legendary Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River System—a 400-mile ribbon of pristine waterways that has shaped Alaska's history for generations. These waters once carried prospectors seeking fortune, Native peoples following ancient routes, and explorers mapping the last frontier. Today, this historic river system continues to beckon modern adventurers eager to experience the same wild currents that have defined Alaska's river navigation heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this northern paradise into a camper's dream, with comfortable temperatures and endless daylight creating perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. The warm season invites exploration, wildlife watching, and nights spent under star-studded skies. When winter descends upon the land, the campground transforms into a crystalline wonderland where temperatures plunge to a bone-chilling -13°F and delicate snowflakes accumulate week by week, blanketing the forest in pristine white—a testament to Alaska's raw, unforgiving beauty.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await documentation, the campground's position along the Taylor Highway places visitors in Alaska's dramatic interior landscape, where rolling hills meet endless horizons.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the enchanting boreal forest that embraces West Fork Campground, where towering spruce and birch create a living cathedral overhead. The centerpiece oxbow lake reflects the ever-changing Alaska sky while providing a natural stage for wildlife performances—watch trumpeter swans announce the seasons with their haunting calls and observe mighty moose browsing along the shoreline. Just beyond camp, the West Fork of the Dennison Fork beckons paddlers and anglers to explore its pristine waters, part of the greater Fortymile Wild and Scenic River System that has carved its story through this ancient landscape.
Geological RegionPositioned in Alaska's captivating Eastern Interior, West Fork Campground showcases the region's dramatic geological tapestry. Here, ancient rivers have sculpted oxbow lakes from their meandering paths, while the surrounding boreal forest stands as testament to nature's resilience in the far north. This remarkable landscape, shaped by the forces of the Fortymile Wild and Scenic River System, offers visitors a front-row seat to observe how water, ice, and time have collaborated to create one of North America's last great wilderness frontiers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo detailed information is provided about accessibility features. However, the campground includes loops with different site configurations, which may offer some versatility.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with site 22 being noted as 'very large.'
Sites PrivacyModerate privacy is offered, with scenic views over water and clustering of sites in two loops.
Total Campsites25 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 22 is recommended for its privacy and proximity to the water. Site 24 is ideal for cyclists and motorcyclists due to its dedicated amenities.
Best CampsitesSite 22: Large site with picnic table, park bench, and fire ring offering scenic views of nearby water. Site 24: Dedicated for cyclists/motorcyclists with a covered picnic table.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
10 days
Groups
No specific group camping details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 2 loops: one with 7 pull-through spaces and another with 18 back-in spaces.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally during summer months. Precise dates for opening and closure are not provided.
Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up, first-come, first-served. During peak times like mid-September, the campground may fill, particularly for RV spaces.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed only before the day of arrival. Late cancellations or no-shows incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The West Fork Campground provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and proximity to river-based activities. Wildlife such as trumpeter swans, moose, beavers, birds, and squirrels can be seen, especially at the overlook on the large loop and near the oxbow lake. While river access is available a quarter mile north of the campground, the shallow water during non-high-water periods limits canoeing and rafting opportunities.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are mentioned in user reviews, specifically referencing a nearby 'nice little grayling creek.'Boating
River access is available 1/4 mile north of the campground for the West Fork of the Dennison River, though boats must be carried about 20 yards to the water. Shallow water conditions during non-spring runoff periods limit canoeing and rafting opportunities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with sightings of trumpeter swans, moose, beavers, birds, and squirrels reported. The overlook on the large loop is recommended for observation.Winter Activities
No specific information about winter recreation activities is provided.Water Sports
No details about non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or paddleboarding, are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are described as 'numerous and aggressive,' particularly during summer. Wildlife encounters with moose and beavers may occur.
Active alertsNo current warnings or alerts are provided.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 43%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Partly cloudy
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
Closest emergency services include Tok Community Clinic, located approximately 49 miles away in Tok, Alaska.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water features1/4 mile north of the campground provides access to the West Fork of the Dennison Fork. The water is typically too shallow for canoeing or rafting except during high water periods like spring runoff.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention abundant mosquitoes. "The mosquitoes are aggressive and numerous; using DEET or mosquito repellent coils can help maintain comfort."
HostMultiple reviews praise the campground hosts for their hospitality and maintenance of facilities. 'The sweetest camp hosts' and 'spotless restrooms credit to Klaus.'
Campground Map
Eastern Interior Field Office, MP 49 Taylor Highway, Fairbanks, AK, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tok, AK; travel east on the Alaska Highway and turn left on the Taylor Highway. Proceed north and the campground is at Milepost 49 of the Taylor Highway.
Access to the campground is via paved roads from the Alaska Highway and the Taylor Highway. Seasonal conditions such as snow and ice may affect accessibility.Nearby places
Tok: approximately 49 miles, estimated travel time of about 1 hour.
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be found in Tok, AK, approximately 49 miles away, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
West Fork Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The West Fork Campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, tranquility, and well-maintained facilities. It is described as a 'fantastic campground' and 'the best campground in Alaska' by reviewers. The camp hosts are frequently mentioned for their friendliness and attentiveness. Vault toilets and potable water availability are notable highlights.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
- Vault toilets are described as 'spotlessly clean.'
- Potable water is readily available.
- Camp hosts are friendly and helpful.
- Sites are spacious and well-maintained.
- Wildlife viewing...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Mosquitoes are numerous and 'bites are frequent,' requiring strong repellent.
- Lack of cell phone reception and internet access.
- Limited recreational opportunities in the river due to shallow...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring strong mosquito repellent (e.g., DEET) and mosquito coils.
- Download the Recreation.gov app prior to arrival to use the Scan & Pay system.
- Bicycle and motorcycle travelers should use the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in mid-September, with most visitors being RV and 5th-wheel campers. Summer months are ideal for wildlife spotting and enjoying blueberries near the sites. Mosquitoes are...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Best campground in Alaska! $12/night, free wood, potable water, the sweetest camp hosts, and the best part… the bathrooms.'
- 'It smelled deliciously of cedar and I’d like to just hang out in...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 22: Described as 'very large,' includes a picnic table, park bench, and fire ring. Offers scenic water views with beaver and bird activity.
- Site 24: Specifically designated for bicyclists...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025