Tangle Lakes Campground Launch

The feel

It has 45 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, and the paved boat launch is the designated put-in for the 30-mile Delta Wild and Scenic River float trip.

An accessible trail leads from the boat-launch parking to a scenic overlook with views of Round Tangle Lake. Moose and caribou live in the area, and many hunters use the campground as a base camp in fall hunting season.

What to expect

Water and access

Paved launch into the Tangle Lakes, off the Denali Highway at mile 21 from the Richardson Highway. It is the put-in for the 30-mile Delta Wild and Scenic River float.

License and rules

No fee for Delta Wild and Scenic River use.

Crowds and best time

Many hunters use the campground as a base camp in fall hunting season. Sites are first come, first served.

Hazards

Bear-proof trash receptacles and food lockers are provided.

Cell signal

Poor.

Bathrooms and water

Six double-vault toilets, one of them near the boat launch. Two hand pumps provide water.

Season and access

Typically open from Memorial Day through the first week of September. Dates depend on weather and vary by season.

Mingo says

Plan your float inside the Memorial Day to Labor Day window. Closing dates shift with the weather.

Before you go

• Bring $20 per site; sites are first come, first served.
• Expect poor cell reception; plan your float without it.
• Use the bear-proof food lockers for your food.

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