West Fork Campground

How does a campground in remote Alaska defy expectations? The West Fork Campground, located 17 miles from Chicken, Alaska, challenges the notion that wilderness camping is overly rustic by providing thoughtful amenities amidst a stunningly untamed environment. Tucked off the Taylor Highway, this Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground features potable water, vault toilets, picnic tables, and grills at each of its 25 campsites, split between two loops—seven pull-through spots suited for larger RVs, and 18 back-in sites nestled among trees overlooking Oxbow Lake, where moose and trumpeter swans are common sights.

The campground offers direct access to the Fortymile National Wild and Scenic River, renowned for springtime kayaking and canoeing, and is ideal for fishing and wildlife spotting, with species like grizzly bears, moose, and peregrine falcons frequenting the area. The rugged forest terrain around the campground enhances the wilderness experience, but the well-maintained Taylor Highway makes it accessible to RVs, albeit at a cautious pace. Visitors should prepare for the remoteness—no cellular service is available, and the nearest provisions are in Chicken.

Perfect for day trips, stopovers, or extended stays, this serene, seasonally open campground also provides a base for exploring other regional highlights like the Steese National Conservation Area. Campers are urged to pack insect repellent and bear-proof containers to ensure a safe and enjoyable immersion in Alaska’s wilderness.