Willow Creek Trail

The feel

This is a flat gravel path from the Willow Creek campground down to the Susitna River, short enough to cover in about half an hour. It is stroller and wheelchair friendly, and dogs are welcome on a leash.

The campground is a large paved one near the confluence of Willow Creek and the Susitna River. Willow Creek is a popular fishing spot for salmon, rainbow trout, grayling and dolly varden, and rafters take out of the creek within the campground.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Out and back, 0.6 mile, with about 9 ft of gain. Flat gravel path from the campground to the Susitna River.

Time

About half an hour.

Parking

The recreation area is at milepost 70.8 of the George Parks Highway.

Fees and passes

$5 day use for parking, and the state park pass is accepted. Camping is $20 a vehicle.

Dogs

Allowed on leash.

Kids

Rated easy, and stroller and wheelchair friendly.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are available in the recreation area.

Season and access

Campsites are first come, first served, with no online reservations. The camping limit is 4 to 15 days depending on season.

Mingo says

Rafters take out right in the campground. The walk takes half an hour, so it fits into a campground stop.

Before you go

• Bring your own firewood, because none is provided.
• Arrive early for a campsite, since there are no online reservations.
• Pay the $5 parking fee or display a state park pass.

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