Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area

The Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area is one of Alaska’s wildest and most beautiful locations, and it offers incredible camping, boating, fishing, hiking, and backpacking opportunities. The area can be somewhat difficult to reach as even the nearby town of Unalakleet is only accessible by plane, but the journey is well worth it. Most people prefer to fly out of Anchorage, which offers many recreation options and RV amenities and is the perfect place to stock up on supplies.

The Unalakleet River starts in the Nulato Hills before emptying into the Norton Sound at the town of Unalakleet. Because it’s so secluded, it is rare to see other visitors, but anyone traveling the river, particularly closer to the Norton Sound, will most likely encounter other anglers or hunters. The area is also historically important as it’s part of the Kaltag Portage, which was used by native people for thousands of years for travel and trade. Trails in the area are limited, so you will need to blaze your own path through the landscape or use the river itself for travel.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Cape Krusenstern Walk

This gentle trail loops around and offers beautiful views of the area. It’s also an excellent option for spotting or photographing local wildlife.

Length: 12 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The Unalakleet National Wild River is one of the best places in all of Alaska for fishing. Arctic grayling and Dolly Varden are plentiful throughout the year, and during salmon season, coho, pink, and chum salmon are frequent catches. Anglers can fish from the river’s banks, but most people prefer to use a boat. Ice fishing is also very popular during the winter months when the river freezes.

Wildlife Viewing

The Unalakleet National Wild River is itself the best place to view wildlife. Moose is one of the most common animals in the area, and brown or grizzly bears are also frequently spotted. Caribou are also common, and the area is home to a wide range of migrating birds. People can also often spot wolves, muskoxen, wolverines, and smaller mammals such as martens, marmots, and porcupines.

Dog Sledding and Snowmobiling

The area around the Unalakleet National Wild River is ideal for dog sledding and snowmobiling. Visitors can blaze their own trail or watch some of the local competitions. For example, the famous Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Races runs parallel to the river.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Because Unalakleet and the Unalakleet National Wild River are so remote and can only be reached by plane or snowmobile, RV camping is limited. However, there are BLM RV camping and regular RV camping options available near Anchorage, which is where most people fly to Unalakleet from. Ship Creek RV Park offers full hookups, showers, restrooms, and a laundry area. JBER FamCamp offers full hookups and showers, and there is a dump station available.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available along the Unalakleet National Wild River, and visitors can set up a dispersed campsite in the area. Remember, however, that there are no facilities available, including water or restrooms. Dispersed camping beyond the river’s junction with the Chirosky River, about 24 miles upstream from the town of Unalakleet, will require permission as much of this land is privately owned or part of Native lands. To find BLM sites that offer camping or camping amenities, search for “BLM camping near me.”

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area BLM trip

The Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area is incredibly remote, so safety must always be a top priority when exploring the region. Pack any necessary supplies including food, water, first aid gear, and plenty of warm clothes. The weather can turn quickly, so be prepared for sudden storms or drops in temperature. Rain downpours are common during the summer, and this can cause flooding. During the winter, temperatures hover well below freezing, and even nighttime temperatures during the summer can be in the 40s.

The area is also home to many wild animals, including predators such as bears and large animals such as moose and elk. Any wild animal can be dangerous if it feels threatened, so always maintain a safe distance and try not to disturb the local wildlife. If you’re planning to camp, secure all of your food and belongings where they can’t be reached by animals, such as by hanging them from a tree. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and wild areas, such as the Unalakleet National Wild River, must be protected so that visitors can enjoy them for many generations to come, and using Leave No Trace practices can help. These practices include staying on trails or in designated camping areas and respecting the land, plants, and animals. Always gather firewood from the local area and only build controlled fires. Always ensure that every fire is completely out and the coals are cold before you move on. There are few amenities in the Unalakleet National Wild River area, including areas to dispose of trash, so take all of your trash with you when you leave.

Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area Location

The Unalakleet River is only accessible by airplane or, during the winter, snowmobile. Visitors to the river can often take a plane from the nearby Unalakleet city airfield.

Ready to visit Unalakleet National Wild River Recreation Management Area? 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.