Swanson River Campground

The feel

Three sites with fire rings share a vault toilet and a boat launch, on Swanson River Road. The Swanson River canoe trail connects 40 lakes and 46 miles of the Swanson River.

The river trail has the potential for greater difficulty, with some of the most remote lakes in the system and somewhat technical river sections. Rainbow trout, Arctic char, Dolly Varden and red and silver salmon live in, or migrate through, its lakes and streams.

What to expect

Layout and setting

Three sites with fire rings, a vault toilet and a boat launch.

Check-in and stay

First-come. Camping may not exceed 14 days in a 30 day period anywhere on the refuge.

Crowds and best time

Lakes break up in mid-May and stay open until mid-October.

Fees and reservations

Free. No reservations; sites are first-come.

Dogs

Pets must be on a leash no longer than nine feet.

Hazards

Lake waters are cold (50-60 degrees F). Biting insects are often present on portages and at campsites. Some river sections are somewhat technical.

Bathrooms and water

A vault toilet is on site. No water, so bring your own drinking water.

Season and access

May through September. Swanson River Road turns north off the Sterling Highway at mile 83.5 by the Sterling Elementary School.

Mingo says

Paddle between mid-May and mid-October, when the lakes are open. The river sections ask for more skill than the lakes.

Before you go

• Register at the entrance where you embark; canoeists must sign in.
• Bring repellent and head nets for the biting insects on portages and at campsites.
• Pack light, because portages run from several hundred yards to a mile or more.
• Call the refuge at (907) 260-2820 with questions.

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