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The best camping near Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lower Chatanika adventure.

100% (2 reviews)
100% (2 reviews)

Discover the rugged beauty of Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area.  

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Community favorites near Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

100%
(3)

Windy Creek Wildlands

1 site ¡ Lodging40 acres ¡ Fairbanks, AK
Off the beaten path.  Our property is 40 acres and bordered by undeveloped state lands and public multiuse trails. 
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from 
$40
 / night
86%
(7)

Sven's Basecamp Hostel

108 sites ¡ Tents3 acres ¡ Fairbanks, AK
Sven's Basecamp Hostel is a small hostel that's open to campers and travelers from all over the world. It is owned and run by Sven, who came to Alaska from Switzerland when he was 21. He has run the hostel for 9 years now and loves meeting people traveling to Alaska!Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent in our on-property forest! We have unlimited space for campers, and can't wait to meet you and hear your stories. We are a traveler's hostel with plenty of room for tent campers, so expect to meet people from all over the world. You will have access to 3 flush toilets, a sink area, coin-operated showers (25 cents per minute), a full kitchen with a stove, microwave, and refrigerators, and a community fire pit. We will also have an on-site coffee shop opening on July 1, 2021.
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from 
$25
 / night
100%
(1)

Why Knot Sleep Here

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents4 acres ¡ Fairbanks, AK
Learn more about this land:We as of right now can provide a 12x 12 wall tent, which will eventually be on a raised platform. 2 more to be added by end of summer 2021. We also offer a couple of flat areas were you can pop up your own tent or park your RV. We are centrally located between Fairbanks, North Pole and Chena Hot Spring Resort. We have fishing guide business and love to spend time in the great outdoors. We can offer advice on interesting things to do and see. Give us a call!!
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from 
$40
 / night
Booked 1 time

Beautiful Project in process

2 sites ¡ RVs, Tents4 acres ¡ Fairbanks, AK
Learn more about this land:We are in the process of cleaning up and rebuilding a historical Alaskan Log cabin site and the surrounding property. Great location within 15 miles of Fairbanks proper and around the corner from Standard Creek which is an old logging rd providing hiking, biking and ATV access all the way into the Minto Flats.
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from 
$25
 / night
Saved 2 times

Forest meadow

1 site ¡ Tent2 acres ¡ Fairbanks, AK
Learn more about this land:Small clearing in forest suitable for large tent. No open fires. Tall trees, lush undergrowth, wildlife. OutHouse nearby. Covered cooking area with table on property.
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from 
$30
 / night
Saved 18 times

A Taste of Alaskan Cabin Life

1 site ¡ Lodging4 acres ¡ Fairbanks, AK
Beautiful south facing 4.5 acre parcel surrounded by the largest Spruce trees in the interior.  Learn more about this land:Quiet, warm, rustic cabin located in the Cripple Creek area west of Fairbanks.  15 minute drive to town.
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from 
$75
 / night

The best camping near Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

If you’re looking to camp close to Fairbanks, then the two state recreation areas along the Chatanika River are just what the doctor ordered. The Lower Chatanika State Rec Area takes up 570 acres along the Elliott Highway, and there are some lovely campsites to be found. When you aren’t making s’mores, pass the time with fishing or canoeing. Adventurous souls might just be drawn to the rafting possibilities, too. You’ll have to launch your watercraft from the Upper Chatanika State Rec Area, but it’s worth the extra effort to get there. Think about launching from there, and then floating back down the Chatanika all the way back “home.” Not a bad way to spend a day, right?

Notable campgrounds

  • Olnes Pond Campground - A serene getaway perfect for anglers and campers seeking tranquility.
  • Whitefish Campground - Features a boat launch and scenic spots ideal for riverside camping.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early to secure your spot, especially during peak summer months when the park is most visited.
  • Consider mid-week camping for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies for last-minute openings.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a site.

When to go

The best time to visit Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is during the summer, from June to August, when the weather is warm and the days are long. Winter offers a unique charm with activities like ice fishing and dog sledding, but be prepared for cold temperatures and limited access.

Know before you go

  • Check trail condition reports and campground open status before your visit for the latest updates.
  • Remember to purchase an annual parking pass if you plan multiple visits to save on fees.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with ADA facilities ensuring everyone can enjoy the park.
  • Be bear-aware; store food properly and know what to do if you encounter wildlife.
  • For any questions, consult the park's frequently asked questions or contact the park directly.

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