Overview
Kendesnii Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness, offering a serene and breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located near the stunning Tok River, this campground is surrounded by lush forests, majestic mountains, and an abundance of wildlife. The unique feature of Kendesnii Campground is its remote location, which provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and experience the authentic beauty of Alaska. The campground is situated in a scenic valley, with the Tok River flowing gently through it, providing a soothing background noise that will lull you into a peaceful slumber.
The setting of Kendesnii Campground is characterized by its pristine wilderness, with towering trees, crystal-clear streams, and an array of wildflowers that bloom in every color of the rainbow. The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking, with the surrounding mountains rising up to meet the sky and the river flowing gently through the valley. The unique features of this campground include its remote location, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Location & Directions
To get to Kendesnii Campground, take the Tok Cut-Off Highway (Hwy 1) from the city of Tok, which is approximately 200 miles northwest of Fairbanks. The campground is located at mile marker 93.5, and the GPS coordinates are 63.3667° N, 142.9667° W. From Tok, drive east on the Tok Cut-Off Highway for approximately 90 miles, then turn left onto the campground access road, which is marked with a sign. The road conditions are generally good, but be prepared for gravel and potential potholes.
The driving distance from Fairbanks to Kendesnii Campground is approximately 220 miles, and the drive takes around 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and the number of stops you make along the way. Be sure to fill up on gas and supplies in Tok, as services are limited in the area. It’s also a good idea to check the road conditions and weather forecast before embarking on your journey.
Campground Details
Kendesnii Campground has a total of 20 campsites, including 10 tent sites, 5 RV sites, and 5 walk-in sites. The RV sites have electric hookups, and the maximum RV length is 30 feet. The campground also has a dump station and potable water available. The current fees for camping are $10 per night for tent sites and $20 per night for RV sites, with a discount available for seniors and disabled individuals.
Campsites can be reserved through reserve.gov, but be aware that reservations fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Check-in time is 2 pm, and check-out time is 12 pm. The campground is open from May 15 to September 15, but be aware that the road may be closed due to snow and ice during the winter months.
The campground also has a host on site during peak season, who can provide information and assistance with camping and outdoor activities. Be sure to stop by the host site to check in and get an overview of the campground and its amenities.
Site Types and Amenities
- Tent sites: 10 sites available, with picnic tables and fire rings
- RV sites: 5 sites available, with electric hookups and picnic tables
- Walk-in sites: 5 sites available, with picnic tables and fire rings
- Hookups: Electric hookups available at RV sites
- Max RV length: 30 feet
- Fees: $10 per night for tent sites, $20 per night for RV sites
- Reservation info: Reservations can be made through reserve.gov
- Check-in/check-out times: Check-in at 2 pm, check-out at 12 pm
- Season open dates: May 15 to September 15
Facilities & Amenities
Kendesnii Campground has a range of facilities and amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. The campground has potable water available, as well as vault toilets and a dump station. Each campsite has a picnic table and fire ring, and firewood is available for purchase from the campground host. The campground also has bear boxes and a boat launch, making it an ideal destination for boaters and anglers.
The facilities and amenities at Kendesnii Campground include:
- Water: Potable water available
- Restrooms: Vault toilets
- Fire rings: Fire rings at each campsite
- Picnic tables: Picnic tables at each campsite
- Bear boxes: Bear boxes available at each campsite
- Boat launch: Boat launch available
- Dump station: Dump station available
- Firewood: Firewood available for purchase from the campground host
Hiking & Activities Nearby
Kendesnii Campground is surrounded by a range of hiking trails, including the Tok River Trail, which is a 10-mile trail that follows the Tok River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The campground is also close to the Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River, which offers world-class fishing and boating opportunities.
Other activities in the area include berry picking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The campground is a great base for exploring the surrounding wilderness, and the scenic drives and hiking trails in the area offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
Nearby trails and activities include:
- Tok River Trail: 10-mile trail that follows the Tok River
- Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River: World-class fishing and boating opportunities
- Berry picking: Abundant wild berries in the area, including blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries
- Wildlife viewing: Abundant wildlife in the area, including moose, caribou, and bears
- Photography: Breathtaking scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities make the area a photographer’s paradise
Fishing Opportunities
Kendesnii Campground is located near some of the best fishing in Alaska, with the Tok River and surrounding lakes and streams offering a range of fish species, including salmon, trout, and grayling. The Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River is a world-class fishing destination, with its clear waters and abundant fish populations making it a paradise for anglers.
The best techniques for fishing in the area include fly fishing, spin casting, and trolling, and the best times to fish are early morning and late evening when the fish are most active. Be sure to check the fishing regulations and obtain any necessary permits before heading out on the water.
Fish species in the area include:
- Salmon: King, sockeye, and coho salmon
- Trout: Rainbow trout and grayling
- Grayling: Arctic grayling
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Kendesnii Campground is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is warm and the days are long. The peak season is June to August, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the fishing is at its best. However, be aware that the mosquitoes can be abundant during this time, so be sure to bring insect repellent and protective clothing.
The weather in the area can be unpredictable, with sudden changes in temperature and precipitation, so be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear. The road to the campground can also be closed due to snow and ice during the winter months, so be sure to check the road conditions before heading out.
Tips for visiting during peak season include:
- Arrive early to secure a campsite
- Bring insect repellent and protective clothing
- Pack layers and waterproof gear
- Check the road conditions and weather forecast before heading out
Wildlife & Bear Safety
Kendesnii Campground is located in an area with abundant wildlife, including bears, moose, and caribou. It’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, including storing food and trash properly, making noise while hiking, and carrying bear spray.
The area is home to both black and brown bears, and it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid encounters. Be sure to store food and trash in airtight containers and keep a clean campsite, and make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears.
Tips for bear safety include:
- Store food and trash properly
- Make noise while hiking
- Carry bear spray
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Keep a clean campsite
What to Bring
When visiting Kendesnii Campground, it’s essential to bring the necessary gear and supplies to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. The essentials include:
- Tent and camping gear
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking gear and utensils
- Food and water
- Insect repellent and protective clothing
- Bear spray and bear-resistant containers
- First aid kit and emergency supplies
- Map and compass or GPS device
- Layered clothing and waterproof gear
It’s also a good idea to bring a camera, binoculars, and a field guide to help you identify the abundant wildlife and wildflowers in the area.
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The nearest town to Kendesnii Campground is Tok, which is approximately 90 miles west of the campground. Tok has a range of amenities, including gas stations, restaurants, and shops, and is a great place to stock up on supplies and gear.
Other nearby attractions include the Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River, which offers world-class fishing and boating opportunities, and the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, which is the largest national park in the United States and offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Nearby campgrounds and RV parks include:
- Tok RV Park
- Fortymile Campground
- Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve campgrounds
Tips from Experienced Campers
Experienced campers recommend arriving early to secure a campsite, and being prepared for changing weather conditions. They also recommend bringing insect repellent and protective clothing, and being aware of your surroundings and taking necessary precautions to avoid encounters with wildlife.
Other tips include:
- Bring a camera and binoculars to capture the breathtaking scenery and wildlife
- Take a scenic drive to the nearby Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve
- Try your hand at fishing or boating on the Tok River or surrounding lakes and streams
- Take a hike on one of the many trails in the area, including the Tok River Trail
- Be sure to check the road conditions and weather forecast before heading out
Cell service is limited in the area, so be sure to make any necessary calls or send messages before arriving at the campground. Noise considerations are also important, as the campground is located in a remote area and noise can carry far. Be respectful of other campers and keep noise levels down, especially in the evening and early morning hours.
Sunrise and sunset recommendations include waking up early to watch the sunrise over the surrounding mountains, and staying up late to watch the stars and northern lights. The scenic views and breathtaking scenery make Kendesnii Campground an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, and with the right gear and preparation, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful and remote corner of Alaska.