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Nothing says “Summer in Alaska” like pitching a tent right on an Alaskan lake or river edge. If you’re looking for tent camping opportunities in the interior of Alaska this Summer, then look no further. I’ve gathered my Intel and experience on the four best recreation areas for tent camping near Fairbanks, Alaska and I’m sharing it with you here.
As a local resident, these are areas that my family and I frequent quite often. Recreation opportunities are infinite here in Fairbanks. Setting up a campsite as a central base is the best way to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Many folks use RV’s and campers to get more of a “glamping” experience, but I find immense joy in good, old fashioned tent camping.
If you are like me and want to find scenic spots that don’t cost a fortune, staying in a recreation area like these is a great option. Plus, they are beginner friendly. You don’t need to be an expert to drive into the campsite and pitch a tent.
They are also extremely family-friendly, which is the most important aspect for my family seeing as we have four children. Aside from finding family friendly campsites, learning expert camping hacks throughout the years has made camping with a large family much easier. I also love the aspect of combining camping and hiking, which these recreation sites offer. On top of an epic camping trip, you can plan for an amazing day of hiking as a family as well.
Tent Camping Under the Midnight Sun
The midnight sun of Alaska is truly something to behold, unless you’re trying to sleep. With small children, it is especially brutal. To combat this, make sure you get a blackout tent like the one below. It also has a screened in “porch” which will protect you from all of our pesky mosquitoes. I promise, you’ll thank me for it!
Coleman Carlsbad Dark Room Camping Tent with Screened Porch, 4/6 Person Tent Blocks 90% of Sunlight and Keeps Inside Cool, Weatherproof Tent with Easy Setup and Screened-In Porch for Tent Camping
- DARK ROOM TECHNOLOGY: Blocks 90 percent of sunlight (vs. a comparable Coleman tent) so you can sleep in past sunrise.Vestibule Area : No. Tent Room divider : No
- REDUCES HEAT: For a more comfortable rest anytime of day
- WEATHERPROOF: Included rainfly offers extra weather protection; welded corners and inverted seams keep water from getting in; strong frame withstands 35+ mph winds
- STAY CONNECTED: E-Port makes it easy to bring electrical power inside
- CONVENTIONAL PITCH: Sets up in 15 minutes
- BUG-FREE LOUNGING: 9 x 4 ft. full-floor screen room
- DIMENSIONS: 9 x 7 ft. with 4 ft. 11 in. center height; fits 1 queen-size air bed
- 1-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Without further Ado, here are the top four recreation areas for tent camping in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Chena Lakes Recreation Area
One of the must-visit camping areas in Fairbanks is the Chena Lakes Recreation Area, where adventure seekers can bask in the beauty of crystal-clear waters and lush surroundings. Located just outside of Fairbanks, this 2000 acre park is the perfect place to pitch your tent. Its easy access makes it perfect for visitors to the city. No need to venture far into the unknown road system of Alaska.
Tent Camping at Chena Lakes
There are two campgrounds at Chena Lakes: one at the Lake Park and one at the River Park. There are a combined total of 80 campsites between the two. Some of the campsites are pull through and there is access to potable water and restrooms. Keep in mind, however, that the potable water still advises boiling before drinking. The pump that is used causes a metallic taste that is off putting for my family, so we haul our own water here.
Interestingly, there is also an island campground with 6 additional campsites that can be accessed via non motorized boats (canoe, kayak, etc).
This article is all about tent camping, but RV’s and Campers are also allowed here at the campground.
This spot is perfect because you can set up your campsite as a base and enjoy all of the recreational opportunities that await at Chena Lakes.
Chena Lake is 259 acres and has a sand swimming beach, two pavilions, a boat rental station, and a handicap accessible fishing dock.
The River Park, which is more secluded, offers a pavilion and hiking trails.
Aside from hiking, boating and fishing are very popular at Chena Lakes Recreation Area. From Rainbow Trout to the annual run of King Salmon, you can get your fishing on while enjoying a nice weekend of camping.
If you are looking for one of the most easily accessible areas for tent camping near Fairbanks, Alaska, you’ll definitely want to check out Chena Lakes Recreation Area.
Chena River State Recreation Area
Located just a short drive away from Fairbanks, the Chena River State Recreation Area offers a new set of adventures for camping enthusiasts. Enjoy fishing in the Chena River. Go hiking through the scenic trails. Or simply relax amidst the peaceful surroundings. This recreation area has more to offer than Chena Lakes, but is a little further, while still being easily accessible. Just a short drive down Chena Hot Springs Road will lead you to Chena River State Recreation Area.
Whether you prefer tent camping or an RV, camping in this area is easy with 3 developed campgrounds along the way. The campgrounds are: Rosehip Campground at milepost 27 Chena Hot Springs Road, Tors Trail Campground at milepost 39, and Red Squirrel Campground and Picnic Area at milepost 43.
With 397 square miles of forests, rivers, and alpine tundra, there is something to enjoy for every outdoor enthusiast at this location.
There are two popular hiking trails: Angel Rocks and Granite Tors, with Granite Tors having its own campground.
If hiking isn’t your thing, there are ATV trails galore to enjoy an evening ride through the midnight sun.
And oh the fishing. There is so much fishing happening on the Chena River throughout the Summer months.
Chena River State Recreation Area follows the Chena River and so canoeing, kayaking, and boating are also wonderful outdoor recreational activities to enjoy while camping here.
For an excellent chance at viewing wildlife, and exploring all of the fun activities in the area, tent camping in Chena River State Recreation Area is an excellent idea for Summer fun.
Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area
Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is another hidden gem in Fairbanks, Alaska. It also offers a unique camping experience for outdoor enthusiasts. With its stunning views of the Chatanika River and surrounding wilderness, this recreation area provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful getaway. Whether you prefer to spend your days fishing along the river, hiking through the lush forests, or simply unwinding by the campfire, Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area has something for everyone.
There are two campgrounds in this recreational area: Olnes Pond and Whitefish Campground.
Tent Camping at Olnes Pond Campground
This 400 acre area is located at 10.5 mile Elliot Highway, North of Fairbanks. Surrounding a 16 acre pond, there are 12 campsites, a reservable picnic shelter, day use parking, a reservable Public-Use Cabin, and access to a myriad of trails.
Seasonal services here include potable water, restrooms, and refuse disposal. Overnight camping and daily parking fees are in effect year around.
Tent Camping at Whitefish Campground
Whitefish Campground is also 400 acres and is located at 11 mile Elliot Highway, North of Fairbanks. It is nestled along the shore of the Chatanika River, popular for its excellent fishing.
There are 8 campsites, a reservable picnic shelter, boat launch, and day use parking, accessible seasonally, along with restrooms, potable water, and refuse service.
For a unique tent camping experience North of Fairbanks, the Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is the way to go. It is far enough out to be serene, yet close enough to Fairbanks with easy road access.
Birch Lake State Recreation Area
This recreation area is certainly unique. Nestled between a lily pad covered lake and forest wetlands, this 48 acre campground hosts 19 campsites and a public use cabin. Also at Birch Lake is a boat launch, and day use parking, accessible seasonally, along with restrooms, potable water, and refuse service.
Birch Lake State Recreation Area is known for its tranquil setting and crystal-clear waters, providing the perfect escape for nature lovers. With plenty of camping spots available along the lake shore, you can wake up to the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle lapping of the water against the shore.
Spend your days exploring the hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forests, keeping an eye out for local wildlife like moose and bald eagles. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or canoe and paddle out onto the pristine waters of Birch Lake for a different perspective of the area. Fishing enthusiasts will also delight in the abundance of fish species that call Birch Lake home, making it a prime spot to cast a line and reel in a big catch.
Birch Lake is also popular for jet skiers in the Summer months.
The peaceful atmosphere of Birch Lake State Recreation Area makes it the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. Experience the ultimate camping adventure at Birch Lake State Recreation Area, where every moment is a new opportunity for exploration and relaxation.
Conclusion on the Best Tent Camping Areas in Fairbanks, Alaska
The best tent camping areas in Fairbanks, Alaska, offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From the tranquil Chena Lakes Recreation Area to the rugged beauty of Chena River State Recreation Area, each location promises unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Alaskan wilderness.
Alaska isn’t a popular Summer tourist destination for nothing. Our wilderness here is something special. Summer is short and sweet and if you blink, you just might miss it. Don’t let it go by without pitching your tent at least once in one of these popular spots. I promise you won’t regret it.
