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Alaska Department of Natural Resources

Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation

Denali Overlook - Courtesy of Thomas Bol Photography

Matanuska-Susitna Valley &
Copper River Basin Region

Overview

Welcome to the Mat-Su Region! From the sweeping vistas at Denali State Park to the vast Copper River Basin, recreation opportunities in our Mat-Su regional parks abound. Your days can be spent exploring the rugged peaks surrounding the historic Independence Mine or relaxing by the water in peaceful Nancy Lake State Recreation Area.

Conveniently located a short drive from Anchorage, you can plan a day trip exploring our lakes, to a multi-day hiking trip in remote sub-alpine tundra. Experience an abundance of wildlife along the way and take home lasting memories of your experience.

You will find four-season access to some of the most popular park destinations in the state. With 24 parks and more than 650 thousand acres of lands to explore you just need to ask yourself, "Where do I want my next adventure to begin?"

Reserveable Facilities

K'esugi Ken Interpretive Center

Is a large, 30 x 90 foot open pavilion that contains interpretive information about Denali State Park and the Alaska Range. Interpretive programming is also provided most summer days, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Schedules are posted at various locations in the park. The Center is also available by reservation for large group events. For more information, please contact the Mat-Su Office at (907) 745-8950 or by email at dnr.matsuparks@alaska.gov.

Make a reservation for the K'esugi Ken Interpretive Center Pavilion

K'esugi Ken Small Pavilion

Located within the Walk-in Tent camp loop, this 20 x 20 foot open pavilion is available to all campers, or available by reservation for groups of up to 20. It includes 3 picnic tables, a fireplace and a vaulted latrine. For more information, please contact the Mat-Su Office at (907) 745-8950 or by email at dnr.matsuparks@alaska.gov.

Make a reservation for the K'esugi Ken Small Pavilion

K'esugi Ken Group Camping Area

Located within the Walk-in Tent camp loop, a large area is available by reservation for large groups of up to 50. It can park larger RVs depending on the number of other vehicles. It includes 3 picnic tables, a large fireplace, vaulted latrine, and a large grassy tent-pad.

Reserve the Group Camping Area
Finger Lake Group Camping Areas

Finger Lake has two group camping areas available for reservation.

Make a reservation at Group Camping Area 1
Make a reservation at Group Camping Area 2
Byers Lake Campground Group Camping Area

Byers Lake Campground has a group camping area. Please contact the Mat-Su area office at 907-745-3975 for more information.
Lower Troublesome Creek Picnic Shelter

Lower Troublesome Creek has a picnic shelter for reservation. Please contact the Mat-Su area office at 907-745-3975 for more information.

Make a reservation at the Lower Troublesome Creek Picnic Shelter
Nancy Lake SRS Picnic Shelter

Nancy Lake State Recreation Site has a picnic shelter for reservation. Please contact the Mat-Su area office at 907-745-3975 for more information.
South Rolly Group Camping Area

South Rolly Campground has a group camping area. Please contact the Mat-Su area office at 907-745-3975 for more information.
South Rolly Overlook Pavilions

South Rolly Campground has a two pavilions. Please contact the Mat-Su area office at 907-745-3975 for more information.

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."

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Division of Parks & Outdoor Recreation

Atwood Building
550 West 7th Avenue
Suite 1380
Anchorage, AK 99501
DNR Public Information Center:
(907) 269-8400