Willow Creek State Recreation Area

The feel

This is a large paved campground at the confluence of Willow Creek and the Susitna River, in a recreation area of 3,583 acres. It has 140 campsites, and the riverfront is the draw for people who come to fish.

Willow Creek holds salmon, rainbow trout, grayling and Dolly Varden, and the Susitna River holds king, silver, pink and chum salmon. Willow Creek is also a mild Class I-II creek for rafting, and the take-out sits inside the campground with paved access.

What to expect

Layout and setting

A large paved campground near the confluence of Willow Creek and the Susitna River, 140 campsites, with a boat launch and riverfront. No RV size limit.

Check-in and stay

The camping limit is 4 to 15 days, depending on season.

Crowds and best time

Weekend crowds gather for fishing access.

Parking and rig size

No RV size limit.

Fees and reservations

$20/night. A daily parking fee applies. Campsites are first come, first served, with no online reservations.

Hazards

Log jams and sweepers on Willow Creek call for navigation experience if you float it.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are accessible on site. Firewood is not provided, so bring your own.

Season and access

May-Sep. At milepost 70.8 of the George Parks Highway.

Mingo says

Plan around the fishing and come on a weekday if you can. Weekend crowds gather here for fishing access.

Before you go

• Bring your own firewood; none is provided.
• Arrive ready to take a site first come, first served, since there are no online reservations.
• Call (907) 745-3975 about the current fee and parking fee.
• Bring river experience if you float Willow Creek, since log jams and sweepers are there.

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