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Denali Grizzly Bear Resort
Overview
Denali Grizzly Bear Resort offers a classic Alaskan experience for travelers exploring the rugged beauty of the interior. Established in 1968, this family-owned property provides a variety of lodging options, ranging from rustic campsites to comfortable cedar cabins. The resort is perched along the banks of the Nenana River, offering a serene atmosphere that captures the spirit of the Alaskan wilderness while remaining conveniently close to modern necessities. It serves as an authentic gateway for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the region.
Location & Surroundings
The resort is situated at Mile 231.1 of the George Parks Highway, positioned just six miles south of the Denali National Park entrance. Its unique placement along the Nenana River provides guests with stunning waterfront views and the soothing sound of rushing water throughout the night. Surrounded by dense spruce forests and towering mountain peaks, the location serves as a perfect base camp for those wanting to stay near the park's main access point without sacrificing the feeling of being tucked away in the woods.
Amenities & Park Features
For RVers, the resort offers several site types, including electric and water hookups as well as more secluded dry sites for a more primitive experience. While there are no sewer hookups at the individual sites, a convenient central dump station is available for all guests. The property features essential comforts to make your stay in the wild more manageable:
- Heated restrooms and hot showers
- A guest laundry facility
- A well-stocked general store and gift shop
The on-site shop makes it easy to refuel and gather souvenirs after a long day of Alaskan adventure.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the proximity to Denali National Park, where visitors can board shuttle buses to spot grizzly bears, moose, and caribou in their natural habitat. Just steps from the resort, the Nenana River offers opportunities for thrilling whitewater rafting or scenic float trips. Numerous hiking trails are accessible nearby, ranging from leisurely walks along the riverbank to more strenuous climbs that reward hikers with panoramic views of the Alaska Range and the chance to see Denali on a clear day.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is ideal for nature enthusiasts and adventurous families who prioritize location and scenery over modern resort-style luxury. It appeals to travelers seeking an authentic Alaskan vibe with a primary focus on outdoor exploration and wildlife viewing. Because the resort offers a mix of RV sites, tent areas, and hotel-style rooms, it is a great choice for multi-generational groups traveling together with different lodging preferences. If you appreciate a peaceful riverside setting near the park, this resort is an excellent fit.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- Internet
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Adele M
I didn’t expect much, as I was just staying here one night while visiting Denali National Park. The location was perfect for that, and the experience of living in a more “authentic” cabin was quite nice. However, even for a quick stay, it was not the most pleasant. I was told that WiFi wouldn’t be free, but I never expected it to be as expensive as it was. There was 30 minutes of complimentary WiFi, and after that it was 7 dollars an hour?! I understand this is a cabin in the woods, but I needed to get important work done, and was not able to do so because of the prices. The room was basic, as it was a cabin of course, and didn’t have a fridge, or microwave, but that wasn’t a problem for me. There were big clumps of dust in the corners as if it hadn’t been cleaned at all. The biggest problem for me was the windows. There were no curtains for the upper windows. Since it doesn’t get dark in summer, it was light inside the cabin all day since there were no curtains, shades, or blinds. I’m very sensitive and so it was really tough for me to sleep. As a whole, if you have nowhere to stay, this isn’t a bad choice, but not the best.
Aubrey Urbanowicz
My Alaska trip was part of a tour group with Holiday vacations and this was one of our favorite hotels. The back decks with a view - you can't beat that. We had a beautiful day to sit outside into the evening. Rooms were cozy and spacious.
Steve Pierce
Great location. 3 of us sharing 2 double beds. Shower had very slow drain. Had to stand in water. Adopted scarcity mindset, since shampoo, soap and conditioner were in short supply. After 1 shower, 2” diameter bar soap thinned to skinny, soggy mess. Shower head was weak. Better quality, more plentiful toiletries, a plunged shower drain, and a better shower head would significantly improve the room. The location is great and the rustic style is charming.
Cassandra Bickel
Nice place. Clean for the most part. Disappointed there are no refrigerator, especially for the price. And only 30 minutes of free wi-fi. There is no AC, but not uncommon for the area, and with the sliding glass door open, it stayed cool in the room at night. Fortunately I had a travel fan. It would have been better in the evening if the resort had fans. My room was over looking the river. And the bed was very comfortable. ****There is a train that went through several times in the evening blowing their horn.
Kat
It's a decent spot near the Denali National Park. The room we had did not have a microwave or fridge, but we did have cable TV and drip coffee. The general store has everything you need to use the laundry facilities and they have decent food trucks on site. The only things I think of to improve guest experiences would be better black out curtains and to partner with the Park and offer Park passes on discount for guests.