Squirrel Creek (Copper Center)

The feel

Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site sits beside the Richardson Highway at Mile 79.5, with Squirrel Creek on one side, the Tonsina River to the east and a small lake to the south. It has 25 campsites, so you can camp and fish from the same spot.

The pond at the site is stocked with rainbow trout, while the grayling are wild. Crowds are low, and the fishing is easy grayling and trout in the Copper Basin.

What to expect

Water and access

Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site at Mile 79.5 of the Richardson Highway near Tonsina, 35.5 miles south of Glennallen. Campground and pond access.

Species and timing

Arctic grayling in June, July and September at 8-14 in. Rainbow trout in June and July at 10-14 in.

Methods and gear

Spin, bait or fly, fished from the bank.

License and rules

Verify current rules for the Upper Copper / Upper Susitna Area.

Crowds and best time

Low crowds.

Parking

There is a daily parking fee, and there is no RV size limit.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are available at the site.

Season and access

June to September. Camping is first come, first served with no online reservations, and the camping limit is 15 days.

Mingo says

Save September for the wild grayling in the creek. The stocked pond is the easy start for trout.

Before you go

• Bring your own firewood, since none is provided.
• Expect a daily parking fee, and no online reservations: campsites are first come, first served.
• Camping is limited to 15 days.

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