AT A GLANCE
Why go?
Paxson Lake BLM Campground spreads across a sheltered shore of Paxson Lake at Mile 175 of the Richardson Highway in Alaska's Interior, a few hours south of Fairbanks. Operated by the Bureau of Land Management, it pairs first-come lakeside camping with the trailhead and boat launch that send paddlers and anglers out onto the Gulkana Wild and Scenic River.↗↗
Around 50 spruce-ringed sites, a paved boat launch, accessible toilets, potable water and bear-proof food lockers make this a comfortable stop for RVs and tents alike. It is unstaffed but well set up, so it works as a restful overnight base, a fishing camp, or the jumping-off point for a float down the Gulkana.↗↗
A lakeside camp in Alaska's Interior
The campground sits on the quiet edge of Paxson Lake, where tall white and black spruce screen the sites and the open water pulls light and cool air across the shore. Two gravel loops hold the campsites, linked by a trail and a small footbridge over the creek between them, while a boardwalk from the first loop leads down to a lake shore access and boat mooring area. With mountain views opening beyond the treeline, it has the unhurried feel of a true backcountry stop that happens to be right off the highway.
