The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River runs through the dense wilderness of the Alaskan interior. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this site is free and open to the public. Most visitors explore the river on a float trip of Beaver Creek. This spectacular journey takes you through the White Mountains, under staggering rock cliffs, and deep into the boreal forest. It's not for the faint of heart — it's a 100-mile, seven-day trip to the mouth of Victoria Creek. From there, you can schedule an air-taxi pickup on a large gravel sandbar or continue on for 250 miles to the Yukon River Bridge on the Dalton Highway.
If you'd prefer to stay on dry land, you can experience Beaver Creek on foot from the BLM's Ophir Creek Campground. Hike into the White Mountains, fish for Arctic grayling, and spot grizzly bears, all while enjoying the majestic Alaskan wilderness.
Before you set out to explore the Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River, head to the Table Top Mountain Trail for a quick hike. The loop trail is not long, but it delivers spectacular views of the White Mountains. You'll find the trailhead on Nome Creek Road; it's a quick walk from Ophir Creek Campground.
Length: 3 miles round trip
Intensity: Challenging
About one mile east of the Ophir Creek Campground, you'll find the Bear Creek Trail. It starts on the northern side of Nome Creek Road and travels along the base of Table Top Mountain. After three or four miles, the trail crosses a creek; just after that, you'll come upon the BLM-owned Richard's Cabin. The views along the trail are expansive, and the terrain is relatively easy.
Length: About 8 miles round trip
Intensity: Moderate
If you're not planning to paddle the Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River, you can hike to it and explore the banks. Start at Ophir Creek Campground, and follow Nome Creek north. It meets Beaver Creek after about 1.5 miles. Hike along the banks of the river, pan for gold, or try your luck at catching fish.
Length: 3 miles round trip
Intensity: Easy
The Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River is one of the most spectacular boating destinations in Alaska. The easiest launch site is Ophir Creek Campground; from there, you can put in on Nome Creek and head north. If you have a motor, it must be 15 horsepower or less. These two creeks are good fishing spots for Arctic grayling, pike, salmon, burbot, and sheefish. Make sure to check the river conditions before you go — a flow height of 2.5 is ideal. If the river is flowing at 2.75 feet or higher, expect fast water and dangerous debris.
As you float Beaver Creek through the White Mountains National Recreation Area, keep an eye out for the peregrine falcons that nest in the cliffs. If you're hiking in, bring binoculars to see the owls, eagles, and migratory birds as they swoop down to scoop fish out of the river. Grizzly bears, black bears, moose, and caribou are all common in the region.
During Alaska's long winters, take a snowmobile, dog sled, or cross-country ski trip to the Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River. The easiest way to reach the river is via the groomed trails in White Mountain National Recreation Area. The easiest access point is the McKay Creek Trailhead at mile 42 on the Steese Highway.
The Ophir Creek Campground is the closest campground to the Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River. The 19 campsites are open for RV camping; sites come in a variety of sizes. There are no hookups, but the campground offers trash cans, pit toilets, and running water in the summer. Keep in mind that this is an extremely remote site — there's no cell service, and the dirt access roads can be muddy and covered in deep potholes. It's a good idea to call the BLM Fairbanks District Office for current road conditions and fees before you arrive.
There are no dispersed camping areas near the Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River. You can find affordable BLM campsites at Mount Prindle Campground, which sits on the western end of Nome Creek Road about 16 miles west of Ophir Creek Campground. Here, sites offer picnic tables, fire rings, and access to hand-pumped water. Expect fees of $6 per night. The nearest free campsites are located at mile marker 38 on Chena Hot Springs Road, which lies about 90 miles south.
The Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River is just 75 miles from Fairbanks, but it feels like a different world. The location is exceptionally remote, and you probably won't get a phone signal; make sure to bring a satellite phone and extra fuel, food, and supplies. The BLM allows you to gather deadwood for fires, but it's always a good idea to have a propane stove on hand as a backup.
Layers are the key to enjoying the wilderness near Beaver Creek — the weather can change quickly, and snow is possible even in the middle of the summer. Check with the BLM office in Fairbanks about local bear activity, and be sure to brush up on how to stay safe around bears. When you're prepared with bear spray, you can relax and enjoy the spectacular river and panoramic views. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Any time you're camping and hiking on BLM lands, it's important to minimize your impact. Dispose of garbage properly, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave everything as you found it. Whenever possible, use existing campsites or fire rings to protect the natural environment.
The Ophir Creek Campground is the gateway to the Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River. To get there from Fairbanks, take AK-2 north to the town of Fox. Then, head north on AK-6 for about 44 miles. When you reach Nome Creek Road/US Creek Road, turn left. After seven miles, turn left on Nome Creek Road, and drive for 12 miles. The road ends at the Ophir Creek Campground; you can walk or paddle to Beaver Creek.
Address: Western end of Nome Creek Road, Alaska
Ready to visit Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
