Peters Creek Dispersed (Petersville Rd)

The feel

This is free dispersed camping on the creek gravel bars and pullouts at Peters Creek, off Petersville Road near Trapper Creek. There are no facilities, so you camp on the bar and pack everything in and out.

People come to spend a few days fishing for salmon and trout or panning for gold. The Petersville Recreational Mining Area is on state land along Peters Creek, and the road also serves active mining claims in the Cache Creek and Peters Creek area. Petersville Road winds 39 miles from Trapper Creek into the Dutch Hills, with views of Denali.

What to expect

Layout and setting

Dispersed camping on creek gravel bars and pullouts at Peters Creek, along Petersville Road.

Fees and reservations

Free. Sites are first-come.

Bathrooms and water

No facilities. Bring your own drinking water and pack out everything you bring in.

Season and access

June to September. Petersville Road runs 39 miles from Trapper Creek into the Dutch Hills; the Trapper Creek Museum sits at mile 7.

Mingo says

Plan around the June to September window and bring everything you need. Salmon and trout fishing and gold panning are the reasons to stay a few days.

Before you go

• Bring a gold pan if you want to try the creek.
• Pack in all food and water; there are no facilities.
• Carry out all your trash.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.