Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation
A System of Dreams
That's what Neil Johannsen, the longest-serving director of Alaska State Parks, calls the state agency that started out simply—the result of the dreams of a few hardy individuals—and now oversees more than 156 park units from Alaska's far north to the tips of Southeast. Alaska's park system encompasses some three-million acres of land and water; by far the most acreage of any state park system in the country.
Explore
Latest News Release:
Neil Johannsen Presents the First 25 Years of Alaska State Parks
September 5, 2025 (Anchorage, AK) - Alaska State Parks will host Neil Johannsen in Anchorage on Sept. 10,
2025 to share stories about his tenure at Parks. Neil stands as Parks longest acting Director—
12 years and seven months— and worked for Parks from the 1971 through 1995...
More News:
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8/25/25 Director's Order Regarding Closure of the Rodak Loop Trail Chugach State Park
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4/18/25 Chugach State Park Earth Day Clean-Up Event at Thunderbird Falls
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2/24/25 Alaska State Parks Introduces Two New Cabins in Kodiak
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2/24/25 State Parks combining Citizen Advisory Boards in Southeast Alaska
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2/3/25 Alaska State Parks Introduces Two New Cabins in Kodiak
Volunteer
Alaska State Parks depends on volunteers to help manage and maintain our parks. Volunteers provide services that would not otherwise be offered. In turn, volunteers receive valuable training and experience for their service. There are several facets to the VIP program. Perhaps one of them is right for you!
Mission Statement
"The Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation provides outdoor recreation opportunities and conserves and interprets natural, cultural, and historic resources for the use, enjoyment, and welfare of the people."
Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation
Atwood Building
550 West 7th Avenue
Suite 1380
Anchorage, AK 99501
DNR Public Information Center:
(907) 269-8400