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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Galbraith Lake Campground

Anaktuvuk Pass, Alaska · North Slope County · Campground

Overview Galbraith Lake Campground is the only campground along the Dalton Highway situated north of the Brooks Range. The tundra environment affords stunning views of the Brooks Range and the north slope. Hiking can be found in almost any direction from the campground, which is an excellent basecamp for exploring the …

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About Galbraith Lake Campground

Overview Galbraith Lake Campground is the only campground along the Dalton Highway situated north of the Brooks Range. The tundra environment affords stunning views of the Brooks Range and the north slope. Hiking can be found in almost any direction from the campground, which is an excellent basecamp for exploring the Brooks Range. There are 12 designated campsites. Please note due to tundra, there is no firewood available in the vicinity of the campground. This location is available on a first-come, first-serve basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive at the campground to claim and purchase a site. Once on-site, you have the option to pay for your campsites(s) with cash/check or by scanning a QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. Download the free Recreation.gov mobile app on Android or iOS prior to your arrival as this is a remote area that has limited or no cellular service. Recreation The Brooks Range offers excellent recreation opportunities, but very few are along designated routes. Hiking is plentiful in the mountains where ridges and drainages provide firm footing, open tundra areas may have uneven and difficult footing due to tussocks. Hiking east from the highway will lead you to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, while hiking west of the highway will take you towards Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve. Choose your route with care and bring topographic maps, a GPS and a compass with you. There are several excellent river trips in the vicinity of Galbraith Lake Campground: • Atigun and Sagavanirktok (the Sag) Rivers: Class III-IV+ whitewater, access Atigun at Milepost 271; Sag at MP 306. For expert boaters only. • Ivishak Wild and Scenic River: Class II, access by chartered air service from Deadhorse or Coldfoot. More detailed descriptions of these rivers are available at the Arctic Interagency Visitor Center. Other recreational activities include bird watching and fishing. State statute prohibits off-road vehicle use with

How to Get There

From Fairbanks, drive north 11 miles on the Steese Highway (AK-6) to its junction with the Elliott Highway (AK-2) in Fox. Follow the Elliott Highway 73 miles to the junction with the Dalton Highway (AK-11). Continue on the Dalton Highway to Galbraith Lake exit at Milepost 275. Follow the road 4 miles to the west and south to the campground entrance. At approximately 2 miles you will pass by an airport. It is about 365 miles from Fairbanks to Galbraith Lake Campground, and the trip can take from 13 to 16 hours depending on weather, road conditions, and how often you stop along the way.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    Water
    Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
  • 🍫
    High-energy snacks
    A snack for the trail.
  • 🧴
    Sun protection
    Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
  • 🩹
    First-aid kit
    Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
  • 🗺
    Offline map
    Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.

Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.

Plan Your Visit to Galbraith Lake Campground

Heading to Galbraith Lake Campground? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Galbraith Lake Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Galbraith Lake Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10322643) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Galbraith Lake Campground?

From Fairbanks, drive north 11 miles on the Steese Highway (AK-6) to its junction with the Elliott Highway (AK-2) in Fox. Follow the Elliott Highway 73 miles to the junction with the Dalton Highway (AK-11). Continue on the Dalton Highway to Galbraith Lake exit at Milepost 275. Follow the road 4 miles to the west and south to the campground entrance. At approximately 2 miles you will pass by an air…

How do I contact Galbraith Lake Campground?

You can reach the park at email: sctaylor@blm.gov.