
National Park & Preserve · Alaska
Katmai National Park & Preserve
A landscape is alive underneath our feet, filled with creatures that remind us what it is to be wild. Katmai was established in 1918 to protect the volcanically devastated region surrounding Novarupta and the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes. Today, Katmai National Park and Preserve also protects 9,000 years of human history and important habitat for salmon and thousands of brown bears.
Things to do
- Boating
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Fishing
- Fly Fishing
- Food
- Dining
- Picnicking
- Flying
- Guided Tours
- Hiking
- Backcountry Hiking
- Hunting and Gathering
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Park Film
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
- Gift Shop and Souvenirs
Weather & when to go
Located between the stormy north Pacific Ocean and the even stormier Bering Sea, the Katmai region is often a battleground between weather systems. When you visit, be prepared to encounter all types of weather. On average, wet and cool conditions predominate in spring, summer, and fall. Winters are drier and colder.
Operating hours
Katmai National Park and Preserve
Katmai is open 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
Campgrounds
Brooks Camp Campground
FAQ
- Is Katmai National Park & Preserve free to visit?
- Katmai National Park & Preserve does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Katmai National Park & Preserve?
- Katmai is open 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
- Do I need a reservation for Katmai National Park & Preserve?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Katmai National Park & Preserve. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Katmai National Park & Preserve.

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