Alaska, a land of breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled wilderness, invites adventurers to discover its natural wonders. Within this vast northern territory, Alaska State Parks provide access to some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. For those planning to immerse themselves in Alaska’s great outdoors, understanding the state park fees and the availability of annual passes is key to a smooth and enjoyable experience. Whether you are a resident or a visitor wondering Where Is Alaska State and how to best explore its parks, this guide will provide you with essential information on Alaska State Parks fees and annual passes.
Annual Passes: Your Gateway to Alaskan Adventures
Investing in an annual pass is a cost-effective way to enjoy Alaska’s State Parks throughout the year. Several options are available to suit different needs:
- Daily Parking Pass: Priced at $60, this pass covers daily parking fees at most state parks for a calendar year.
- Boat Launch Pass: For $150 annually, boat launch passes provide access to boat launch facilities within state parks.
- Disabled Veteran’s Annual Camping Pass: Honoring service, Alaska offers free annual camping passes to eligible disabled veterans. You can check the specific eligibility requirements on the Alaska Department of Natural Resources website.
These annual passes are valid for the calendar year and are accepted at the majority of Alaska State Parks. However, it’s important to note that some parks are managed by private firms and may not honor these passes. Specifically, annual passes are not valid at Eagle River Nature Center, Arctic Valley near Anchorage, and Pillars and Eagle Rock in the Kenai River Special Management Area. It is always advisable to contact the local park office if you have any questions about pass acceptance at a specific location.
To ensure proper use, Daily Parking decals must be permanently attached to the lower corner of the windshield on the driver’s side, inside your vehicle. Boat Launch decals need to be affixed in plain sight on the left side of your boat trailer tongue, approximately one foot back from the hitch assembly, as per regulation 11 AAC 05.170(b)(4).
Where to Purchase Your Annual Pass
Purchasing your Alaska State Parks annual pass is convenient with both online and in-store options available.
Online Purchase:
For the easiest and quickest method, you can purchase your annual pass online through the Alaska Department of Natural Resources website: Order Park Pass online
In-Store Purchase Locations:
If you prefer to purchase your pass in person, various locations across Alaska offer them:
Anchorage Area:
- DNR Public Information Center*: 550 W 7th Ave, Suite 1360, Anchorage, AK 99501. Phone: (907) 269-8400, Fax: (907) 269-8901.
- Alaska Public Lands Information Center: 605 West 4th Avenue, Anchorage, AK 99501.
- REI: 500 East Northern Lights BLVD, Anchorage, AK 99503.
- The Hoarding Marmot: 1231 W Northern Lights Blvd, Anchorage, AK 99503.
Fairbanks Area:
- DNR Public Information Center*: 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709. Phone: (907) 451-2705, Fax: (907) 451-2706.
- Alaska Public Lands Information Center: 101 Dunkel Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
- REI: 19 College Rd, Unit A, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
- Beaver Sports: 3480 College Rd, Fairbanks, AK 99709.
Kenai Peninsula/Prince William Sound Area:
- Homer Chamber of Commerce: 201 Sterling Hwy, Homer, AK 99603.
- Seward Chamber of Commerce: 2001 Seward Hwy, Seward, AK 99664.
- Kenai Region State Parks Office – CASH ONLY: Mile 85 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669.
- Soldotna Chamber of Commerce – CASH ONLY: 44790 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669.
- Sportsman’s Warehouse Soldotna – CASH ONLY: 44402 Sterling Hwy, Soldotna, AK 99669.
Kodiak Area:
- Discover Kodiak Visitors Center: 100 Marine Way, Kodiak, AK 99615.
Important Note: Annual Boat Launch Passes are exclusively available online or in-person at the Anchorage and Fairbanks DNR Public Information Centers. Locations marked with an asterisk (*) are also where Disabled Veteran Camping passes can be obtained.
Individual Fees for Park Access
For those who prefer not to purchase annual passes, or for specific services, individual fees are applicable:
- Nightly Camping: Ranging from $10 to $45 per night depending on the campground facilities.
- Daily Parking: Costs between $5 to $10 per vehicle, per day.
- Boat Launches: Daily boat launch use ranges from $10 to $25.
- Sanitary Dump Station: A fee of $10 applies for using dump stations.
- Firewood: Where available, firewood is typically $10 maximum per bundle.
- Guided Tours of Historic Sites: Prices vary from $6 to $30 for guided tours.
For a detailed breakdown of fees by specific park facility, please refer to the fee listing by facility.
Need Further Assistance?
For more detailed information and answers to frequently asked questions, visit our FAQ page.
By understanding the fees and pass options for Alaska State Parks, you can better plan your visit and maximize your enjoyment of Alaska’s stunning natural landscapes. Whether you are exploring near Anchorage, venturing to Fairbanks, discovering the Kenai Peninsula, or visiting Kodiak, adventure awaits in Alaska State Parks.
