Rapids Camp Lodge is located on the majestic Naknek River, approximately two miles from the border of Katmai National Park and a short one-hour flight from Anchorage. Not only do we have quick access to Katmai and, specifically, Brooks Falls, but we also have an amazing and breathtaking ecosystem right outside our back door. We are a short 15-minute plane ride from Brooks Falls and are honored to have taken our guests there for many years. Although Rapids Camp Lodge originated as a fishing lodge, we have always been enthusiastic about all Bristol Bay and Katmai National Park have to offer. We are excited to offer now packages specifically designed for the ecotourist and bear-viewing clientele.
While at Rapids Camp Lodge, you will have the chance to see many aspects of Mother Nature. A two-hour kayak float down the Naknek will provide a firsthand view of one of the most amazing ecosystems in the world. It’s not unusual to see a mama bear and her cubs strolling along the shore, and depending on the time of year and the salmon runs, you can see salmon swimming through the water and witness a bear catching its dinner. Bald eagles are often perched high in the trees, overseeing the wonders of nature below them. A walk around the property or along the Rapids Camp road may provide an encounter with a local fox.
While flying to/from Brooks Falls, we can also fly into the Valley of 10,000 Smokes, an amazing, incomparable experience. In addition to Brooks Falls, there are many other nearby locales where you can view bears, go on a tundra hike, or float down a pristine, small stream that few humans will ever see. Our airplanes – some of the most well-maintained in the area – will take you to your destination daily. If you want to know how the local Alaskans live, we can take you on a tour of the surrounding towns of the Bristol Bay Borough. You will always have an experienced guide with you on all excursions, as well as meals and beverages of your choice.
Come to Rapids Camp Lodge and see all Katmai National Park and Bristol Bay offers!
Rapids Camp Lodge differentiates itself from many other bear viewing/ecotourism operations because our packages are all-inclusive. You don’t have to worry about additional costs when you arrive (except for any gift shop purchases and staff gratuity). You will not be charged for individual services, sightseeing excursions, equipment, or meals and beverages.
Included in your tour package:
- Single occupancy room with queen bed (can be double occupancy for couples)
- Private bathroom inside each room
- Full amenities in the room, including all bathroom amenities and luxury bedding
- Three daily meals – breakfast made to order and upscale dinner are both served in the dining room. Lunch is either in the dining room or packed for your excursion.
- All beverages, alcoholic and non-alcoholic
- All equipment, including kayaks and boats, and waders, if needed
- All sightseeing flights
- Guides and pilots
- Transportation to/from the King Salmon Airport
- Flight to/from Anchorage/King Salmon (only if arriving or departing on Friday). Arrivals or departures on a day other than Friday will have to be booked and paid for independently. We can offer suggestions for flights on commercial airlines or air taxi services.
Price is $1500/person/night – recommended length is 3 nights (but can be shorter or longer)
Sample Itinerary:
Friday – Arrive: if arrive before 2:00 then go for a kayak float down the Naknek, come back to the lodge for drinks and dinner
Saturday – 7:00 a.m. breakfast, then 8:00 a.m. departure on a floatplane for Brooks Falls, spend entire day bear viewing and either fly through Valley of 10,000 Smokes on the way to Brooks Falls or on the way back to the lodge (weather dependent). 4:00 p.m. Come back to the lodge for drinks and dinner
Monday – 7:00 a.m. breakfast, then 8:00 a.m. departure on a floatplane to location for either hiking or floating, 4:00 p.m. come back to the lodge for drinks and dinner
Tuesday – the departure of King Salmon before 2:00 p.m. A tour of town can be provided this morning as well, or a morning float down the Naknek (if the float didn’t take place on the day of arrival and there is time on this day)
Book Your Bear Viewing Trip with Rapids Camp Lodge!
To book your trip contact (907) 563-9788 or email info@deneki.com.
