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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Kendesnii Campground

Gakona, Alaska · Valdez-Cordova County · Campground

Located on the Nabesna Road, this free camping area is the only National Park Service campground in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. It has 10 designated campsites, each with a picnic table and a fire ring. There are two vault toilets. Each site can accommodate a small to medium RV or other vehicles. It is free and op…

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About Kendesnii Campground

Located on the Nabesna Road, this free camping area is the only National Park Service campground in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. It has 10 designated campsites, each with a picnic table and a fire ring. There are two vault toilets. Each site can accommodate a small to medium RV or other vehicles. It is free and open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis, but is not plowed during the winter so campsites may not be accessible. Reservations are not taken and are not required.

How to Get There

Kendesnii 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.

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 Kendesnii Campground

Heading to Kendesnii 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 Kendesnii Campground?

No central reservation system listed for Kendesnii Campground. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/259293) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Kendesnii Campground?

Kendesnii 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.

How do I contact Kendesnii Campground?

You can reach the park at phone: (907) 822-5234 or email: WRST_info@nps.gov.