RV Length in Denali NP Campgrounds

2 gypsies, would you let me know where you boon docked on the way into TEK? I made reservations yesterday and am wondering where to stage before TEK.
Thanks

WE-C-USA wrote:
One of the problems you might have at TEK campground. Is "First In, First Choice" of sites. When we were there, I saw some smaller rigs taking some of the larger sites.
So while there are sites that you'll fit in, they might not be open on the day you arrive.

That is pretty much the problem. Been to Tek 2 times. Arrived early afternoon first time & managed to squeeze into a site & keep the truck off the road. A couple sites down was a site well over 60' long. I paced it out.

It was occupied by a VW Westfalia bus. There were plenty of available smaller sites nearby.

Second time we got lucky & had a site where we did not need to unhitch.

A little thought & consideration would go a long way towards full use of the CG. Maybe max vehicle length limits for sites, as done at Bryce Canyon, would help those with the larger units.

Until that happens, get there early so you don't find that a truck camper is occupying that 45' site instead of the 25' site next to it, that you don't stand a hope of getting into.

We've stayed at Teklanika and Riley Creek with our 40' motorhome in huge sites. Your additional 3' would not have made a difference in the sites we had. However, as stated, you can't choose your site beforehand and if you drive to Teklanika and there are no sites big enough for you then you can't stay. You need to stay in a site. There is no overflow area.

The road was plenty wide for us and it would be for you, also. We got no scratches!

We reserved 5 nights at TEK and started our drive in when the rangers allowed us early morning so we got there early.

We were a little early for our TEK reservation so on a whim we boondocked nearby outside the park in a lovely spot. We drove into Denali early morning and easily secured a huge site for 5 additional nights in the front campground, Riley Creek. Our days were full for the 10 total days. There's a lot to do in the front part of the park, also. We saw 'THE' Mountain 7 of 10 days and every one of the big animals - more than once.

We only made reservations about 2 weeks prior when we could better judge when we'd be there. Teklanika and the July 4 weekend were the only reservations we made for the whole summer. We did a lot of boondocking and dry camping.

Also, take the school bus tour which is way better than the 'fancy' bus tour. The school bus drivers are very knowledgeable and are experts at pointing out the animals in the distance and they'll stop to let you take photos. The only thing is that you have to bring your own lunch. :) Staying at Teklanika purchase the TEK bus pass and you can ride as often as you want and as far as you want. There were times we just went out for a couple hours or near sunset. We got off the bus and walked the road some distance and picked up the next bus coming by. It is sooooo quiet and the vastness is overwhelming when you're out there by yourself.

If you're planning the summer, try to route it so you'll get to Denali around mid to late August. Many RVers will be heading back at that time so your chances are better.

One thing, they will not measure you.

There are at least a half dozen spots at Tek that will accommodate your rig.

As previously mentioned, just because they are there doesn't mean they will be available. Be prepared to see someone tent camping in a spot that would handle a 45' RV. It happens!

Another consideration is the narrow passageways at Tek. You will almost be certain to get some scratches down the side while navigating through Tek. The pine trees aren't very forgiving!

The good news is most people only spend three or four days at Tek so if you plan on staying 6 or 7 you will likely get a large spot after a day or two. We have never had a problem but we arrive at Tek no later than 9 a.m. You can park at the entrance to the campground and walk around checking availability. Every site has a reservation sheet that identifies when the occupants are departing.

If you are interested is seeing animals Tek is the place to stay. Buy a one day pass on the shuttle bus and that is good for standby seats the entire time you will staying at Tek. The money you will save on bus passes alone will pay for your camping.

One of the problems you might have at TEK campground. Is "First In, First Choice" of sites. When we were there, I saw some smaller rigs taking some of the larger sites.
So while there are sites that you'll fit in, they might not be open on the day you arrive.

I have stayed at two different campgrounds in Denali. I did not see any sites that were big enough for a rig your size.