Brooks Camp

Brooks Camp and Brooks River as seen from Dumpling Mountain

NPS Photo/B. Lutes

Quick Facts

Location:

Katmai National Park & Preserve, Alaska

Amenities

23 listed

Amphitheater, Animal-Safe Food Storage, Beach/Water Access, Bear Cannister Purchase/Rental, Benches/Seating, Bus/Shuttle Stop, Canoe/Kayak/Small Boat Launch, First Aid Kit Available, Fish-Cleaning Station, Food/Drink - Bar/Alcohol For Sale, Food/Drink - Restaurant/Table Service, Food/Drink - Snacks, Gifts/Souvenirs/Books, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information, Information - Maps Available, Information - Park Newspaper Available, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Picnic Table, Restroom, Scenic View/Photo Spot, Toilet - Vault/Composting, Wheelchairs Available

Situated at the mouth of the Brooks River and the shore of Naknek Lake, Brooks Camp attracts people from all over the world to view brown bears, enjoy world-class fishing, and learn about the long human history of the area. It is also a starting point for many backcountry adventures.

By reservation only, bus tours from Brooks Camp provide access to the geologic splendor of the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, site of the largest volcanic eruption of the 20th century. Some hiking opportunities also exist.

From June 1 to September 17, the National Park Service operates a visitor center, ranger station, campground, and ranger-led programs. Additional services and amenities, including meals and lodging, are available at Brooks Lodge through September 17. 

Visiting Brooks Camp

While Brooks Camp offers many public services and accessible options unavailable elsewhere in the park, visitors must arrive prepared to experience backcountry Alaska. Whether staying for just a few hours or for several days, you should expect to encounter windy, rainy, and cold conditions. Be sure to dress and pack in anticipation of diverse and changing weather conditions.

• Most people arrive at Brooks Camp via small, float-equipped aircraft. Please visit Katmai’s directions and transportation page for more information.
• All visitors to Brooks Camp are required to begin their stay by attending a brief bear safety talk outlining park regulations. 
• Most facilities around Brooks Camp are wheelchair accessible, but assistance may be neccessary. Trails are unpaved and frequently muddy. Visitors should be prepared to leave the trail in order to avoid a bear.

Download The Novarupta, the official Katmai trip planning and information guide.