Overview
The Clearwater State Recreation Site is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, offering a serene and peaceful camping experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the state. Located near the confluence of the Clearwater River and the Delta River, this campground provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as abundant opportunities for outdoor recreation. With its unique blend of scenic vistas, wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to world-class fishing, the Clearwater State Recreation Site is an ideal destination for nature lovers, anglers, and adventure seekers alike.
One of the standout features of this campground is its picturesque setting, surrounded by towering spruce and aspen trees, with the sound of the river flowing gently in the background. The recreation site is situated in a tranquil valley, with the majestic peaks of the Alaska Range rising up in the distance. The area is teeming with wildlife, including moose, bears, and eagles, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Location & Directions
To get to the Clearwater State Recreation Site, take the Richardson Highway (AK-4) to mile marker 141, then turn west onto the Clearwater Road. From there, follow the signs to the recreation site, which is located at GPS coordinates 63.9333° N, 145.7167° W. The driving distance from the nearest city, Delta Junction, is approximately 15 miles, and the journey takes around 20-30 minutes, depending on road conditions.
The road to the campground is generally well-maintained, but it can be rough in some areas, especially after heavy rainfall. It’s recommended to drive slowly and exercise caution, especially when towing a trailer or driving a large RV. The campground is open from mid-May to mid-September, and the road is usually clear of snow during this period. However, it’s always a good idea to check the current road conditions before heading out.
Campground Details
The Clearwater State Recreation Site has a total of 13 campsites, including 5 tent sites, 5 RV sites, and 3 walk-in sites. The RV sites can accommodate vehicles up to 40 feet in length, and some of them have electric hookups. The current camping fee is $15 per night for tent and RV sites, and $10 per night for walk-in sites. Reservations can be made through reserveamerica.com, but be aware that the campground is also available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Check-in time is 2 pm, and check-out time is 12 pm. The campground is open from May 15th to September 15th, and the peak season is from June 15th to August 15th. During this period, the campground can get quite busy, especially on weekends, so it’s recommended to arrive early or make a reservation in advance.
The following are the campground details:
- Number of sites: 13
- Site types: Tent, RV, walk-in
- Hookups available: Electric
- Max RV length: 40 feet
- Fees: $15 per night (tent and RV), $10 per night (walk-in)
- Reservation info: reserveamerica.com or first-come, first-served
- Check-in/check-out times: 2 pm / 12 pm
- Season open dates: May 15th – September 15th
Facilities & Amenities
The Clearwater State Recreation Site has a range of facilities and amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. These include:
- Potable water: Available at the campground’s water station
- Restrooms: Vault toilets and flush toilets
- Fire rings: Provided at each campsite
- Picnic tables: Provided at each campsite
- Bear boxes: Available for food storage
- Boat launch: Located nearby, with access to the Clearwater River
- Dump station: Available for RVs
- Firewood: Available for purchase at the campground
It’s worth noting that the campground does not have any laundry facilities or showers, so be sure to plan accordingly. Additionally, the potable water is only available during the peak season, so it’s a good idea to bring your own water supply if you’re visiting during the shoulder season.
Boat Launch and Fishing Access
The boat launch at the Clearwater State Recreation Site provides easy access to the Clearwater River, which is renowned for its world-class fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, and grayling, making it a paradise for anglers. The boat launch is suitable for small boats and kayaks, and there is a nearby parking area for vehicles and trailers.
Hiking & Activities Nearby
The Clearwater State Recreation Site is surrounded by a range of hiking trails, including the Clearwater River Trail, the Delta River Trail, and the Granite Tors Trail. These trails offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose, bears, and eagles.
Some of the nearby trails include:
- Clearwater River Trail: A 10-mile trail that follows the Clearwater River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains
- Delta River Trail: A 15-mile trail that follows the Delta River and offers opportunities to spot wildlife such as moose and bears
- Granite Tors Trail: A 5-mile trail that takes you through a stunning granite tors landscape and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains
In addition to hiking, the area offers a range of other activities, including fishing, boating, berry picking, and wildlife viewing. The Clearwater River is renowned for its world-class fishing, and the nearby lakes and streams are home to a variety of fish species. The area is also famous for its wild berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries, which can be picked in the summer months.
Fishing Opportunities
The Clearwater State Recreation Site is located near some of the best fishing spots in Alaska, with the Clearwater River and the Delta River offering world-class fishing for salmon, trout, and grayling. The nearby lakes and streams are also home to a variety of fish species, including char, whitefish, and burbot.
Some of the fish species that can be found in the area include:
- Salmon: King salmon, sockeye salmon, coho salmon, and pink salmon
- Trout: Rainbow trout, brook trout, and cutthroat trout
- Grayling: Arctic grayling and lake grayling
- Char: Dolly Varden char and lake char
The best techniques for fishing in the area include fly fishing, spin casting, and trolling, and the best times to fish are usually early in the morning or late in the evening when the fish are most active. It’s always a good idea to check the current fishing regulations before heading out, as they can change from year to year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Clearwater State Recreation Site is from mid-May to mid-September, when the weather is warm and the days are long. The peak season is from June 15th to August 15th, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the fish are plentiful. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and the campground can get quite crowded.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder season, when the weather is still mild and the scenery is stunning. The spring months (May and June) are a great time to see the wildflowers in bloom, while the fall months (August and September) offer stunning views of the changing leaves.
It’s worth noting that the area is prone to mosquitoes and other insects during the summer months, so be sure to bring plenty of bug spray and protective clothing. The weather can also be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and precipitation, so it’s always a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for anything.
Wildlife & Bear Safety
The Clearwater State Recreation Site is located in an area with a high concentration of wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. It’s essential to take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety and the safety of the wildlife.
Some of the wildlife species that can be found in the area include:
- Bears: Black bears, brown bears, and grizzly bears
- Moose: Alaska moose and Shiras moose
- Eagles: Bald eagles and golden eagles
To stay safe, be sure to follow these guidelines:
- Store food and trash properly: Use bear-proof containers or hang food and trash from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet out from the trunk
- Make noise: Make noise while hiking or walking through the woods to avoid surprising wildlife
- Stay in groups: Stay in groups of three or more when hiking or walking through the woods
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings and watch for signs of wildlife, such as tracks or scat
- Carry bear spray: Carry bear spray with you at all times and know how to use it properly
In the event of a bear encounter, stay calm and follow these steps:
- Remain calm: Keep your voice low and speak calmly
- Give the bear space: Back away slowly and give the bear a clear path to leave
- Avoid eye contact: Avoid direct eye contact with the bear
- Do not run: Running can trigger a bear’s chase instinct, so it’s essential to back away slowly and calmly
What to Bring
When visiting the Clearwater State Recreation Site, be sure to bring the following essential gear:
- Clothing: Pack layers for Alaska’s unpredictable weather, including a waterproof jacket and pants, insulated jacket, and warm hat and gloves
- Footwear: Bring sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction
- Sleeping gear: Bring a warm sleeping bag and a comfortable sleeping pad
- Cooking gear: Bring a portable stove or camping grill, as well as cooking pot and utensils
- Lighting: Bring a headlamp or flashlight, as well as extra batteries
- First aid kit: Bring a basic first aid kit, including bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers
- Food and water: Bring enough non-perishable food and water for your stay, as well as a water filter or purification tablets
- Bug protection: Bring insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent mosquito and other insect bites
It’s also a good idea to bring a map and compass, as well as a GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app. Be sure to follow the campground’s firewood policy, which prohibits the collection of firewood from the surrounding area.
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The nearest town to the Clearwater State Recreation Site is Delta Junction, which is located approximately 15 miles away. Delta Junction has a range of amenities, including gas stations, restaurants, and grocery stores.
Some of the nearby attractions include:
- Delta River: A scenic river that offers stunning views and world-class fishing
- Granite Tors: A unique rock formation that offers breathtaking views and hiking opportunities
- Clearwater River: A scenic river that offers stunning views and world-class fishing
- Fort Greely: A historic fort that offers tours and insights into Alaska’s military history
Other campgrounds in the area include the Delta State Recreation Site and the Quartz Lake State Recreation Area, both of which offer stunning views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Tips from Experienced Campers
Here are some tips from experienced campers to help you make the most of your stay at the Clearwater State Recreation Site:
- Arrive early: Arrive early to secure a campsite, especially during peak season
- Bring layers: Bring layers for Alaska’s unpredictable weather, including a waterproof jacket and pants
- Be prepared for bugs: Bring insect repellent and protective clothing to prevent mosquito and other insect bites
- Respect the wildlife: Keep a safe distance from wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles
- Bring a map and compass: Bring a map and compass, as well as a GPS device or smartphone with a GPS app
Some of the best campsites in the area include:
- Site 1: A scenic site with stunning views of the surrounding mountains
- Site 5: A site with easy access to the boat launch and fishing areas
- Site 10: A site with stunning views of the nearby lake and surrounding mountains
Cell service in the area is limited, so be sure to plan accordingly and bring a satellite phone or other communication device if necessary. Noise considerations are also important, as the campground is located in a quiet and peaceful area. Be sure to keep noise levels down, especially after 10 pm.
Finally, be sure to take in the stunning sunrises and sunsets, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The best time to see the sunrise is around 5 am, while the best time to see the sunset is around 10 pm.