While the only developed and maintained trails in the park are part of the Tanalian Trails network near park headquarters in Port Alsworth, hiking is allowed anywhere not otherwise closed to public use. Visitors may travel and camp where they like in this trail free environment. Lake shores, coastal beaches, and high tundra are excellent areas for that activity. Adventurers in Lake Clark will need to rely upon their way-finding and hiking skills, or hire a guide who can help them.
Camping along the Telaquana route at Lake Clark National Park and Preserve / NPS - Emily Kizzia
According to park staff:
Port Alsworth has one campground that is privately owned and operated by Tulchina Adventures 907-782-4720.
Hope Creek primitive camping area with no services is available on a first come, first served basis on Upper Twin Lake just west of the Proenneke Historic Site. You must be prepared for a creek crossing to access the Proenneke cabin from the camping area. Bear resistant boxes large enough to hold coolers of most sizes are available at the campsite. Visitors camping elsewhere are required to pack in bear resistant canisters (BRCs) to store food and toiletries. BRCs may be borrowed from the visitor center in Port Alsworth or rented from outdoor gear shops in Anchorage, Homer, or other communities before flying to the park.
The Richard L. Proenneke Historic site is closed to camping. You must find a suitable site to camp outside the historic site boundaries, or stay in the Hope Creek primitive camping area. Sleeping in or occupying the cabin, cache, or woodshed is also prohibited.
The sedge meadow north of the slough in Chinitna Bay is closed to camping and all other human entry from May 1 to August 31.
Backcountry camping is a true adventure in trail-less Lake Clark wilderness. To embark on such an undertaking requires thorough planning and preparation. Not only will you be in bear country, but you’ll be miles away from help should assistance be required. The park’s Camping and Backpacking page will help you with your plans. No permits are required, but there are rules and regulations with which you should completely familiarize yourself before setting out into the backcountry, including rules regarding sport hunting, trapping and fishing, marijuana and other controlled substances, and common violations to avoid.
