Kendesnii Campground
4.388 reviewsWrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, PO Box 439, Mile 106.8 Richardson Highway, Copper Center, AK 99573
Kendesnii Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
The campground is free and open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations or fees are required for camping.
About this campground
Discover Alaska's hidden gem at Kendesnii Campground, the sole National Park Service campground nestled within the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. This intimate sanctuary offers just 10 thoughtfully placed campsites, each graced with its own picnic table and fire ring where stories are shared under endless summer skies or winter's northern lights. Best of all, this pristine escape comes without a price tag – camping here is completely free, welcoming adventurers year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. While summer visitors enjoy easy access, winter transforms Kendesnii into a snow-draped wonderland that only the most intrepid explorers can reach.
Kendesnii Campground is a primitive camping area with facilities suitable for small to medium-sized RVs and tent camping. It operates year-round on a first-come, first-served basis.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of Alaska's wilderness at Kendesnii. Summer unveils the campground in all its accessible glory, with improved road conditions and comfortable temperatures that invite extended exploration of the surrounding parkland. As autumn's brief display gives way to winter, the landscape undergoes a complete metamorphosis – heavy snowfall blankets the region while temperatures plummet to create a crystalline world of ice and silence. During these months, reaching Kendesnii becomes an adventure in itself, as snow often renders the campground a remote outpost accessible only to those prepared for true winter camping.
Natural Features and ScenerySet against the backdrop of the majestic Wrangell-St. Elias mountain ranges, Kendesnii Campground rests beside the serene Twin Lakes, where morning mist dances across glassy waters. This tranquil haven serves as nature's amphitheater, where graceful swans glide alongside dabbling ducks, and curious small mammals rustle through the underbrush. The surrounding peaks create an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow, while the remote setting ensures an authentic wilderness experience where the loudest sounds are often the gentle lapping of lake water and the distant call of wild creatures.
Geological RegionKendesnii sits at the heart of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, America's largest national park and a geological wonderland where tectonic forces have sculpted an extraordinary landscape. Here, ancient mountain ranges pierce the sky while glacial valleys tell stories millions of years in the making. The park's diverse terrain encompasses everything from pristine alpine lakes carved by retreating glaciers to towering peaks that form part of the volcanic Ring of Fire, creating a camping experience surrounded by some of North America's most dramatic and dynamic geological features.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features, such as wheelchair accessibility, are mentioned.
Sites SizeMedium to large campsites, as noted in user reviews.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced to provide privacy, according to user reviews.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are spacious and fairly level. Recommended for those seeking privacy and peaceful surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site can accommodate a small to medium RV or other vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 10 designated campsites, each featuring a picnic table and fire ring. Sites are spaced out for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but not plowed during winter, making access limited during snowfall.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable on a first-come, first-served basis with 10 designated campsites.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable, as reservations are not required or accepted.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kendesnii Campground offers a tranquil and scenic camping experience. The campground is located near Twin Lakes, providing opportunities for wildlife observation, small boating, and hiking. Star gazing is particularly remarkable due to the remote location.
Hiking
There is a trail leading to Twin Lakes, which is nearby the campground.Boating
A small boat launch is available at Twin Lakes near the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation opportunities include swans, ducks, and small mammals around Twin Lakes.Winter Activities
The campground is open in winter but not plowed, which may limit access during heavy snow.Water Sports
No specific details on other water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed at designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rough road conditions on Nabesna Road, heavy snowfall in winter, and high bug activity, especially during summer months. "Highly recommend head net for bugs if coming in June!"
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Nearest emergency services include hospitals and police stations in Copper Center, AK, approximately 60 miles away. Ranger station is located within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months are peak due to easier road access and better weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingThere is no explicit mention of trash or recycling facilities at the campground.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Twin Lakes with a trail leading to the lake and a small boat launch.
Common complaintsRough road conditions leading to the campground. "Road in is a bit hazardous (Denali Highway-like tire blowing/axle breaking potholes)," one user noted.
Campground Map
Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, PO Box 439, Mile 106.8 Richardson Highway, Copper Center, AK 99573
Driving directionsKendesnii Campground is located at Mile Post 27.8 of the Nabesna Road. The Nabesna Road starts at mile 60 of the Tok Cutoff Highway in the town of Slana, AK. The dirt and gravel road is maintained by the State of Alaska. In Summer, regular passenger cars can make the journey to the campground. Any time of year, the campground may be inaccessible due to heavy rain or snow.
The campground is accessible via Nabesna Road, which is dirt and gravel and maintained by the State of Alaska. During summer, regular passenger cars can make the journey, but heavy rain or snow may render the road and campground inaccessible.Nearby places
Slana, AK, approximately 27.8 miles
Copper Center, AK, approximately 60 miles.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies available in Slana, AK, approximately 27.8 miles away, including some basic groceries and fuel. Larger selections available in Copper Center, AK, approximately 60 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
8 reviews
Kendesnii Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Kendesnii Campground is highly praised for its tranquility, cleanliness, and natural beauty. The location near Twin Lakes and the presence of swans and ducks enhance the serene environment. It is described as one of the most remote and lovely campgrounds in Alaska.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews highlight the clean vault toilets, spacious and well-maintained campsites, peaceful atmosphere, and excellent star-gazing opportunities. One review specifically called the vault toilets...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Access to the campground can be challenging due to the rough condition of the Nabesna Road. One review noted axle-breaking potholes and a maximum speed of 15-20 mph on the unpaved portions of the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing insect head nets if visiting in June, as mosquitoes can be an issue. Another tip is to ensure your vehicle is in good condition to handle the road's potholes. Visitors are...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During the summer, the campground is accessible to standard vehicles, and the proximity to Twin Lakes allows for recreational activities such as hiking and boating. In winter, snow may block access...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Next to twin lakes with a nice trail to the lake and small boat launch.' (Hannah Gardner) 'One of the most remote and lovely campgrounds we visited in Alaska.' (Petra Meath) 'Quiet, peaceful and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews mention individual campsites by their site numbers.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews discuss experiences with pets at the campground.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025