National Park · Alaska
Kobuk Valley National Park
Caribou, sand dunes, the Kobuk River, Onion Portage - just some of the facets of Kobuk Valley National Park. Thousands of caribou migrate through, their tracks crisscrossing sculpted dunes. The Kobuk River is an ancient and current corridor for people and wildlife. For 9000 years, people came to Onion Portage to harvest caribou as they swam the river. Even today, that rich tradition continues.
Things to do
- Boating
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Flying
- Fixed Wing Flying
- Hands-On
- Arts and Crafts
- Hiking
- Backcountry Hiking
- Paddling
- Canoeing
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
- Junior Ranger Program
- Wildlife Watching
- Museum Exhibits
- Shopping
- Bookstore and Park Store
Weather & when to go
Snow, rain, and freezing temperatures can occur any time of the year. Always travel with good quality rain gear and warm layers. Be especially careful to stay dry. Hypothermia can set in on a windy, wet day, even when it doesn't feel that cold.
Operating hours
Kobuk Valley National Park
The Northwest Arctic Heritage Center is the visitor center for Kobuk Valley National Park. Since there are no roads in to Kobuk Valley, the visitor center is located in Kotzebue, AK. From Kotzebue, visitors will charter an air taxi to transport them into the actual national park which is open 24/7 every day of the year.
FAQ
- Is Kobuk Valley National Park free to visit?
- Kobuk Valley National Park 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 Kobuk Valley National Park?
- The Northwest Arctic Heritage Center is the visitor center for Kobuk Valley National Park. Since there are no roads in to Kobuk Valley, the visitor center is located in Kotzebue, AK. From Kotzebue, visitors will charter an air taxi to transport them into the actual national park which is open 24/7 every day of the ye…
- Do I need a reservation for Kobuk Valley National Park?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Kobuk Valley National Park. 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 Kobuk Valley National Park.
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