Size: 4.09 Million Acres
Year Established: 1918
Annual Visitors: 24,800
Firearms Information in Katmai National Park
Since February 22, 2010, visitors to Katmai National Park and Preserve who are eligible to possess weapons under federal and Alaska state law are permitted to do so.
Federal law still prohibits the use or discharge of a handgun in accordance with applicable sections of 36 CFR Section 2.4(a)(2)(ii) and 36 CFR Section 13.30.
Signs are posted at all park entrances reminding visitors that firearms are not permitted in areas where they are in effect, as required by federal law.
Hunting in Katmai National Park
You are not allowed to use or fire your gun in Katmai National Park.
Katmai National Preserve allows hunting and trapping for sport, but Katmai National Park does not.
The preserve is open to hunting and trapping, but only with the proper permits and in accordance with all state laws. Preserve wildlife is managed jointly by the National Park Service and the State of Alaska.
Moose and brown bears are the two most often hunted animals.
Any Alaska resident who is 16 years or older must have a valid hunting license issued by the state. Possession and bag limitations are also species and region specific. Before going on a hunt, be sure you know the rules.
Additional Information About Katmai National Park
The southern section of Alaska is home to Katmai National Park and Preserve. Specifically, a peninsula. It is home to a variety of untamed landscapes, including forest, lake, mountain, and tundra. Many visitors to the park hope to catch a glimpse of the brown bears that flock to Brooks Falls each year in search of salmon.
Near by, at Brooks Camp, there are viewing platforms that allow visitors to get extremely close to the bears. In the Valley of Ten Thousand Smokes, lava flows and ash were produced by a massive volcanic eruption.
Best Time to Visit Katmai National Park
The best time to visit Katmai National Park is between the months of June to September.
Visitor Fees
No fees or registration are needed to get into the park.
Interesting in visiting multiple National Parks this year?
Consider the America The Beautiful Annual Park Pass.
This annual park pass to gets you and some friends into all U.S. National Parks for $80.
They also offer Senior, Military, and other discounts.
Visitor Centers
King Salmon Visitor Center
Address
1 King Salmon Airport Rd,
King Salmon, AK 99613
Phone Number
(907) 246-4250
Hours of Operation
Daily 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Be sure to check for seasonal closures. This visitor center is typically closed from September 6 to February 28.
Brooks Camp Visitor Center
Address
Along the shore of Naknek Lake in the heart of Katmai.
Phone Number
(907) 246-3305
Hours of Operation
Daily 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Be sure to check for seasonal closures. This visitor center is typically closed for Winter from October 1 to May 31.
Robert F. Griggs Visitor Center
Address
23 miles from Brooks Camp on the only road within Katmai.
Hours of Operation
Daily 12:00 PM–3:00 PM
Be sure to check for seasonal closures. This visitor center is typically closed for Winter from September 18 to June 6.