The first night camping at Brooks Camp comes with a free dose of buzzing energy. After all, the only thing keeping the bears that hang around the area from wandering through the campground—and up to your tent—is a round of electric fencing. But fear not: There haven’t been any bear incidents here. This is no Disney production, but there are safety measures that will keep you feeling like you’re alone in the backcountry. Cradled between Brooks River and Naknek Lake in Katmai National Park, Brooks Camp gives overnight access to something that most visitors to Brooks only dream of: fewer people at the viewing stand to watch the big brown bears of Katmai do some fishing, bathing, and fighting. You’ll need to bring your own camping gear and food. Rather have somebody else do the cooking? Pony up for meals and cocktails at Brooks Lodge.
