Overview
Cripple Creek BLM Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Alaska’s stunning wilderness. Located near the town of Glennallen, this campground offers breathtaking scenery, unique features, and unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. The campground is situated near the confluence of the Copper River and Cripple Creek, providing stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. With its remote location and limited number of campsites, Cripple Creek BLM Campground is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and immersive Alaskan experience.
The campground’s unique features include its proximity to the Copper River, which is renowned for its salmon runs and wildlife viewing opportunities. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling hills, scenic valleys, and towering mountains, making it a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, relax in a serene environment, or simply experience the beauty of Alaska, Cripple Creek BLM Campground is an exceptional choice.
Location & Directions
To reach Cripple Creek BLM Campground, take the Glenn Highway (AK-1) to mile marker 159, then turn onto Cripple Creek Road. The campground is located at GPS coordinates 61.7453, -145.2333. From the town of Glennallen, drive east on the Glenn Highway for approximately 15 miles, then turn left onto Cripple Creek Road. The road is gravel and may be rough in certain sections, so it’s essential to drive slowly and exercise caution.
The driving distance from Glennallen to the campground is approximately 20 miles, and the journey takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on road conditions. It’s crucial to check the road conditions before embarking on your trip, especially during the spring and fall seasons when the roads may be slippery or icy. You can check the road conditions by visiting the Alaska Department of Transportation website or calling their hotline.
Campground Details
Cripple Creek BLM Campground has a total of 10 campsites, including 5 RV sites, 3 tent sites, and 2 walk-in sites. The RV sites can accommodate vehicles up to 30 feet in length, and there are no hookups available. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and reservations are not accepted. The current camping fee is $10 per night, and the check-in time is 12 pm, while the check-out time is 11 am.
The campground is open from May 15 to September 15, and the peak season is from June 15 to August 15. During this period, the campground can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays, so it’s essential to arrive early to secure a spot. The campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and visitors can contact the Glennallen Field Office for more information or to report any issues.
Campsite Amenities
- Picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite
- Vault toilets and potable water available
- No hookups or dump station available
- Max RV length: 30 feet
- Fees: $10 per night
- Reservation info: First-come, first-served, no reservations accepted
Facilities & Amenities
Cripple Creek BLM Campground offers basic amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The campground has vault toilets, which are maintained regularly, and potable water is available from a hand pump. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase from the campground host. There are no bear boxes or dump stations available, so it’s essential to store food and trash properly and to pack out all waste.
The campground also has a boat launch, which provides access to the Copper River and surrounding lakes. However, the boat launch is primitive, and visitors should exercise caution when launching and retrieving their boats. The campground does not have a dump station, so visitors should plan to dispose of their waste at a designated facility in Glennallen or another nearby town.
Facility Details
- Vault toilets
- Hand pump for potable water
- Picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite
- Firewood available for purchase
- Boat launch (primitive)
- No dump station or bear boxes available
Hiking & Activities Nearby
Cripple Creek BLM Campground is surrounded by numerous hiking trails, offering something for every skill level and interest. The nearby trails include the Cripple Creek Trail, which is a 3-mile hike that takes you through a scenic valley and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The Copper River Trail is another popular option, which is a 10-mile hike that follows the river and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and fishing.
In addition to hiking, the campground is also close to several fishing spots, including the Copper River and nearby lakes. The river is renowned for its salmon runs, and visitors can try their luck at catching king, sockeye, or coho salmon. The nearby lakes are also home to trout, grayling, and other species, making it a paradise for anglers. Visitors can also enjoy boating, berry picking, and wildlife viewing, making Cripple Creek BLM Campground an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Nearby Trails
- Cripple Creek Trail: 3 miles, moderate difficulty
- Copper River Trail: 10 miles, strenuous difficulty
- Other nearby trails: Copper River Bluff Trail, Cripple Creek Ridge Trail
Fishing Opportunities
Cripple Creek BLM Campground is a fisherman’s paradise, with numerous fishing spots nearby. The Copper River is renowned for its salmon runs, and visitors can try their luck at catching king, sockeye, or coho salmon. The nearby lakes are also home to trout, grayling, and other species, making it an ideal destination for anglers. The best techniques for fishing in the area include fly fishing, spin casting, and trolling, and visitors should be sure to follow all local regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
The fishing season typically runs from June to September, with the peak season being from July to August. Visitors should be aware of the local regulations, including catch limits, size restrictions, and closed areas. It’s also essential to handle the fish gently and humanely, and to release them quickly to minimize harm. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game website has more information on fishing regulations, permits, and techniques.
Fishing Regulations
- Catch limits: 3 salmon per day, 6 in possession
- Size restrictions: 16 inches minimum for salmon
- Closed areas: Check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for closed areas and restrictions
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Cripple Creek BLM Campground is from May 15 to September 15, with the peak season being from June 15 to August 15. During this period, the weather is usually mild, with temperatures ranging from 60 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in temperature, wind, and precipitation.
The mosquito season typically runs from June to August, and visitors should be prepared with insect repellent and netting. The bear season is also during this period, and visitors should take necessary precautions to store food and trash properly and to be aware of their surroundings. The campground can get busy during the peak season, especially on weekends and holidays, so it’s essential to arrive early to secure a spot.
Weather Patterns
- Summer: Mild temperatures, occasional rain showers
- Spring and fall: Cooler temperatures, potential for snow and ice
- Mosquito season: June to August
- Bear season: June to August
Wildlife & Bear Safety
Cripple Creek BLM Campground is located in an area with abundant wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to store food and trash properly. The campground is located in bear country, and visitors should be prepared for encounters with black bears, brown bears, and grizzly bears.
Proper food storage is essential, and visitors should use bear-resistant containers or hang their food and trash from a tree at least 10 feet off the ground and 4 feet out from the trunk. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears. In the event of a bear encounter, visitors should remain calm, speak in a calm voice, and back away slowly. Bear spray is also recommended, and visitors should know how to use it properly.
Bear Safety Tips
- Store food and trash properly
- Make noise while hiking
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Use bear-resistant containers or hang food and trash from a tree
- CARRY BEAR SPRAY AND KNOW HOW TO USE IT
What to Bring
Visitors to Cripple Creek BLM Campground should be prepared with essential gear, including:
- Tent, sleeping bag, and sleeping pad
- Cooking gear, including a stove, fuel, and pot
- Food and water, including a water filter or purification tablets
- Clothing, including layers for cold weather and rain gear
- Insect repellent and netting
- Bear spray and a bear-resistant container
- First aid kit and emergency shelter
Visitors should also be prepared for changing weather conditions, including sudden rain showers, wind, and temperature drops. It’s essential to check the weather forecast before embarking on your trip and to pack accordingly. The campground has a firewood policy, and visitors should only use firewood that is provided by the campground or collected from the surrounding area.
Firewood Policy
- Only use firewood provided by the campground or collected from the surrounding area
- Do not bring firewood from other areas, as it may contain invasive species
- Use fire rings and follow all campfire regulations
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The nearest town to Cripple Creek BLM Campground is Glennallen, which is located approximately 20 miles away. Glennallen has a range of amenities, including restaurants, gas stations, and outdoor gear stores. Visitors can also explore the nearby town of Copper Center, which has a rich cultural heritage and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Other nearby attractions include the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, which is the largest national park in the United States and offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The Copper River Highway is also nearby, which offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Visitors can also explore the nearby lakes and rivers, which offer excellent fishing and boating opportunities.
Nearby Towns
- Glennallen: 20 miles away, restaurants, gas stations, outdoor gear stores
- Copper Center: 30 miles away, cultural heritage, scenic views
Tips from Experienced Campers
Experienced campers recommend arriving early to secure a spot, especially during the peak season. They also recommend being prepared for changing weather conditions and bringing essential gear, including bear spray and a bear-resistant container. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to store food and trash properly.
The best campsites are those that are located near the river, which offer stunning views and easy access to fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors should also be respectful of other campers and keep noise levels down, especially at night. Cell service is limited in the area, and visitors should be prepared for emergencies by bringing a satellite phone or a two-way radio.
Sunrise and sunset are also spectacular in the area, and visitors should be sure to wake up early to catch the sunrise and stay up late to watch the sunset. The campground is also a great spot for stargazing, and visitors should bring a telescope or binoculars to enjoy the night sky.
Insider Tips
- Arrive early to secure a spot, especially during peak season
- Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Bring essential gear, including bear spray and a bear-resistant container
- Be respectful of other campers and keep noise levels down
- Bring a satellite phone or two-way radio for emergencies