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NPS Photo by Michael Glore. | Park ranger standing in front of sign at Brooks Camp. |
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BROOKS CAMP (LODGE & CAMPGROUND) & VALLEY OF 10,000 SMOKES
How do I get to Brooks Camp?
Most people fly from Anchorage to King Salmon on a commercial airline (Alaska Airlines or Peninsula Airways) and then fly seatfare on a floatplane from King Salmon to Brooks Camp (link to Katmailand). Floatplanes can also be chartered out of different areas including King Salmon, Homer, Kodiak, and specific fly-fishing lodges.
How much does it cost to get to Brooks Camp from King Salmon?
For Katmailand, the park concessioner, seat fares in 2009 cost $188 roundtrip to get from King Salmon to Brooks Camp.
Can you drive to King Salmon or Brooks Camp from Anchorage?
No. There is no road access from Anchorage to King Salmon or Brooks Camp. King Salmon is an Alaska “bush community” because there is no road access from any large city. Only Naknek, a town located around fifteen miles away, has road access to King Salmon. Brooks Camp is inaccessible by road.
How do you get to where you see the bears once you’re at Brooks Camp?
In July and September, bears are commonly seen in Brooks Camp walking trails, in the river, or even napping. To see bears, you do not need a vehicle. During July, many bears can be seen at the Brooks Falls which is within walking distance of Brooks Camp. In June and August, fewer bears are in the Brooks Camp area and visitors might not see bears during their visit.
Other than bear viewing, what else is there to do at Brooks Camp?
At Brooks Camp, people can fish, hike, canoe/kayak, and go to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Fishing for sockeye (red) salmon and rainbow trout is popular at Brooks. Dumpling Mountain is a designated 1.5 mile (one-way) trail starting from the campground. Daily bus tours to the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes are available for a fee (reservations are recommended). Canoeing and kayaking are possible in Brooks Camp (see information below).
What lodging options are at Brooks Camp?You can stay at Brooks Lodge (see link or call 1-800-544-0551) or camp at Brooks Camp Campground (see link). These facilities are open from June 1 through September 17 annually. A third option is camping outside of the 1.5 mile radius of Brooks Camp.
How do I get a reservation for Brooks Lodge and how much does the Lodge cost per night?
Contact Katmailand or call 1-800-544-0551.
How much do meals cost at Brooks Lodge and do I have to be a Lodge guest?
Meals are buffet-style. Breakfast is around $10-15, lunch is around $15-20, and dinner is around $15-30, depending on the options chosen. You do not have to be a Lodge guest to buy meals.
How much does it cost to camp?
It costs $8.00 per person/per night to camp.
How do I get a reservation for a campsite?
Campsites must be reserved in advance. Click here to apply for a reservation or call 1-877-444-6777. Reservations for the 2009 season can be made beginning January 5, 2009.
If I’m camping at Brooks Camp, can I buy food there or do I have to bring it all with me?
Snacks and full meals can be bought at Brooks Lodge. (See above question for meal pricing). Camp food should be bought before coming to the park and brought with you.
Can you buy fuel for campstoves at Brooks Camp?
Yes, both propane and white gas are available at Brooks Lodge.
Can you cook at your campsite?
No, there are 3 common cooking areas in the campground that all campers share.
Where do I put my food if I’m camping?
All food and odorous items must be stored in the food locker provided at the campground.
Is there water at the campground?
Potable water is available in the campground.
Do you have bathrooms in the campground?
Vault toilets are provided for campers.
Do you have showers in the campground?
There are no showers inside the campground, but showers are available nearby at Brooks Lodge for a fee.
How can I get to Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes?
The Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes is 23 miles from Brooks Camp. A daily bus tour is provided by the park concessioner, Katmailand, and is available for a fee. A ranger naturalist provides information and will accompany you on an optional 3-mile hike into the valley. Reservations are recommended for the bus ride and total trip time is 7-8 hours.
How much does the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes tour cost?
The roundtrip tour with lunch costs approximately $100 and without lunch is around $90. A one-way trip costs around $50. Prices should be checked with Katmailand or call 1-800-544-0551.
Can I get dropped off at the Valley for a few days of backpacking?
Yes. If you want to take the bus, you will have to coordinate with Katmailand or call 1-800-544-0551.
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