Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Paxson Lake (BLM)
Overview
Overview
Paxson Lake BLM Campground offers a quintessential Alaskan wilderness experience for those traveling along the Richardson Highway. This managed site provides a rustic, back-to-basics camping environment that emphasizes the raw beauty of the surrounding landscape. Visitors will find a tranquil atmosphere far removed from the commercial bustle of modern RV resorts, making it a perfect retreat for travelers seeking quiet nights under the vast northern sky.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Gakona, Alaska, the campground sits adjacent to the stunning Paxson Lake. The area is defined by its sweeping mountain vistas and dense boreal forests that characterize the Copper River Basin. Because it is located directly off the highway, it serves as a convenient stop for travelers heading toward Glennallen or Fairbanks. The proximity to the water ensures that the air remains crisp and the surroundings remain incredibly scenic throughout the season.
Amenities & Park Features
The campground is designed primarily for dry camping, meaning it does not offer water, sewer, or electrical hookups. Travelers will find well-maintained gravel pads suitable for smaller to mid-sized rigs, along with standard amenities like fire rings and picnic tables. Vault toilets are available on-site for convenience, and the boat launch provides direct access to the lake. The site remains a primitive, self-sufficient destination, so ensure your water tanks and batteries are prepped before arrival.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw of this location is its access to world-class outdoor recreation. Anglers frequent the area to fish for lake trout and grayling, while the lake itself is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts often head out to capture the local moose and migratory bird populations. Furthermore, the expansive surrounding wilderness offers endless opportunities for hiking and exploring the rugged terrain of the Alaska Range.
Who This Park Is Best For
Paxson Lake BLM is an ideal choice for adventurous RVers and boondockers who prioritize solitude and natural scenery over luxury facilities. It is particularly well-suited for travelers with self-contained units who enjoy remote settings and want easy access to fishing and paddling. If you prefer a quiet, low-density campground that keeps you connected to Alaska’s wilderness, this site will certainly suit your travel style and preferences.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
AlaskanFamBam
Nice clean campground. Spacious spots. Just be prepared to be eaten alive by mosquitos!
Falcon
This was not the most well thought out campground I've been to. Fire rings 5ft away from tent bases (tents and sparks dont mix) maps in the wrong orientation, most sites are TINY campsites you can barely fit a vehicle into let alone a tent. Only the walk in sites have access to the lake... I thought this was a lake campground? BUGS BUGS BUGS and more BUGS. Fishing is tomorrow (since there's no access from camp). Which also means I have to pack everything up, and drive 3/4 of a mile down to the boat launch... Fishing was a bust. Tons of fish down at the south end but no bites. Went to the north end as well, but no action. Checked this spot off the always wanted to try list, but I don't think we'll be back.
Thomas Lamontagne
Nice quiet campground. Sites are pretty level, no water yet but that wasn't a big deal for us. It is available nearby. Pit toilets are clean and stocked. Would stay again.
Krystle Ittner
Great place to hang out for a few days. Cheap enough and you can dump your RV if you pay to stay. The water still wasn't fixed but you can go 30 miles to another campground and get water if you need it. You are in the woods by the water in Alaska so expect mosquitos by the millions.
Paul Brattain
Clean bathrooms, ATT coverage decent. The spot we were in was on a hill and very difficult to get it level. Was not very busy while we were there with campers, but there was a lot of trucks pulling empty boat trailers around.