Local News

Camping increased in state parks in 2020

Because of the pandemic, out of state tourism was hit hard in Alaska last year.  Cruise traffic was halted and airlines saw their ridership plummet.  But that doesn’t mean that

Camping increased in state parks in 2020

Because of the pandemic, out of state tourism was hit hard in Alaska last year.  Cruise traffic was halted and airlines saw their ridership plummet.  But that doesn’t mean that Alaskans stayed home.  One of the most pandemic friendly activities is camping, and Alaskans took to their state parks in record numbers during 2020.

According to Wendy Sailors at the Department of Natural Resources, recent reports show occupancy at the division’s campgrounds rose 13 percent from 2019 to 2020.  The largest increase was at the  K’esugi (kuh-SUE-ghee) Ken Campground in Denali State Park, which rose from a nightly occupancy rate of 22 percent to 71 percent.

Ms. Sailors said the increased revenue at the state parks has helped cover higher maintenance and operations costs the department has been incurring.  And although the pandemic continues to create challenges in securing summer staff and camp hosts, the department is gearing up for another successful and safe camping season.

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Su Valley Voice for August 20, 2026: River Erosion

This week on Su Valley Voice, the topic was erosion issues near Talkeetna. Host Phillip Manning was joined by guests from the Mat-Su Borough and Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities to discuss the current situation and plans.

By Phillip Manning
Live KTNA 88.9 FM