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Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

The best camping in Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, AK

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Discover the rugged beauty of Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area.

The best camping in Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, AK

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.

1. Olnes Pond Campground

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7.5mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · In Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Olnes Pond Campground is a limited but spacious destination that’s perfect for tent campers who want to get up close and personal with Mother Nature

2. Whitefish Lake State Campground

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0.2mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · In Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

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

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Stories from the community

I include a loaf of my homemade sourdough for 6+night stays. If you would like to add a loaf to a shorter stay ($15) please ask:)

Huglyn

August 2025

With kids

1 night at Boreal Forest Cabin

Our family loved this cozy, well-curated space. Rebekah was quick to respond and super accommodating with our 2am arrival. The mattress was nice and firm- much appreciated as we needed the good night sleep. We easily adjusted the temperature to suit our needs and thoroughly appreciated the eggs and granola. ❤️ I wish we got a chance to spend more time here but will add it to our list for future travels.

Jacob

August 2025

With kids

1 night at The Yurt At Calypso Farm

It was a lovely little yurt on a lovely little farm! The host provided staples like oats, coffee, tea, etc. There was a fridge, a small oven, sink with hauled-in water and drainage hooked up, cooking and eating utensils, tableware and basic furniture. The wood stove was cool to look at, though we weren't allowed to use it, nor did we need to. The bed was fine. I woke up to roosters after a good night sleep, which was pleasent. We took are self-guided tour of the farm. The kids pet the wool sheep and dwarf goats and we met the farmers, who were nice. The only inconveniences were no showers, taking care of nature's calling in an outhouse, and no cell phone service. We only stayed one night, and left with some yarn from the sheep we pet the day prior! All in all, we enjoyed our stay!

Nora

July 2025

1 night at Boreal Forest Cabin

An incredible forest stay! It has everything you need for cooking and your morning coffee. Best of all are the cozy and warm vibes & homemade goodies from Rebekah! Highly recommend!

Jenna

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Sven's Basecamp Hostel

Really cool place right outside the city!! Prepare for that city noise, though

Top-rated campgrounds

Sven's Basecamp Hostel

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18mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 123 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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.

Quiet & Rustic

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49mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 1 site · Tent, RV · Nenana, AK

Experience Interior Alaska, Yukon Koyukuk area. Rural and mostly wooded location with Spruce and Cottonwood. Space for one RV up to 26' and a tent. Outhouse on premise and enjoy sitting around fire ring. We are 10 miles north of Nenana, 40 miles south of Fairbanks on Georges Parks Highway, 100 miles north of Denali National Park, 300 miles from Matanuska Valley, 10 miles to boat launch from the famous Nenana River (Home of the Nenana Ice Classic), and the Tanana River. Near Toghotthele mountains with hiking trails. Nenana is a former railroad construction camp and it is where the Golden Spike was placed by President Warren Harding to commemorate the completion of the Alaska Railroad. Dogs allowed on leash. Self contained RV's. No hookups, no dumping, untreated well water. Your hosts Ricki and Charley welcome you to come and enjoy this rural setting.

Dragonfly Cabin

13mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 1 site · Lodging · Fairbanks, AK

This cozy, pet-friendly tiny home is located on 90 acres of private woodlands only 15 minutes from the airport and major shopping centers and only 5 minutes from the University. All of the woodwork, metalwork, and furniture was handbuilt by us and our friends and it has wifi, a full kitchen, and outhouse. Designed for the adventurous who appreciate craft and want to experience the Fairbanks lifestyle, the trails to our woods begin right outside your door for you and your pets to explore! You can watch the aurora from the warmth of your bed, from the fire pit, or from one of the clearings in the woods a few minutes' walk away with your furry friends. You can ski on our trails in winter or walk them in summer (be prepared for wet feet!) and discover the fascinating complexity of the ecosystem here. Here you can also see the impacts of climate change on our landscape firsthand, as the permafrost in our woods is melting, causing deep depressions and tilting trees. The cabin likely has everything you need for cooking including a hot plate, microwave, small oven, pots and pans, utensils, etc. There is water at the sink from a cistern and bucket underneath that must be emptied when full. The is no indoor toilet, but a comfortable, clean outhouse is only a few steps from your door. There is also no shower, but the laundromat only a few miles away has private showers for only a few dollars. Pets are welcome! We do ask that they not sleep in the bed as pet hair can be impossible to remove from sheets, that you do not leave your pets unattended in the cabin, and that you pick up after them. You can walk them off leash in our woods, though keep in mind there are lots of squirrels, bunnies, and other wildlife that live there, and we ask you keep them on leash if walking within our neighborhood. The cabin is only a block away from a bus stop as well as a bike trail that will take you into the heart of town.

Other options near Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Tanana Valley Campground

15mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 61 sites · Fairbanks, AK

Nestled just ten minutes from the heart of downtown Fairbanks, the Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park stands out as a serene retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This unique campground offers a perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty, making it an ideal choice for visitors eager to explore the stunning landscapes of Alaska. The Tanana Valley Campground features a variety of camping options, including both electric and non-electric sites. Each campsite is equipped with essential amenities such as a fire pit, picnic table, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Guests can enjoy refreshing showers included in their stay, along with convenient coin-operated laundry facilities. Surrounded by a lush canopy of trees, the campground ensures a sense of privacy and tranquility for all visitors. Beyond the peaceful ambiance of the campground, guests can engage in a multitude of exciting activities. Fairbanks, the second-largest city in Alaska, is home to numerous attractions. The campground is conveniently located near the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, where visitors can learn more about the region's rich heritage. Additionally, guests have the opportunity to take Denali shuttle buses to explore various attractions in Fairbanks and beyond, including breathtaking natural features, swimming holes, and local dining and shopping options.

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Pioneer Park

17mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 1 site · Fairbanks, AK

Welcome to Pioneer Park, a unique destination where the rich history of Alaska comes alive in a beautifully preserved setting. Spanning 44 acres in the heart of Fairbanks, Alaska, Pioneer Park is conveniently located between Airport Way and the scenic Chena River bike path. Best of all, there is no admission fee, allowing visitors to explore the park freely and enjoy a self-guided tour of its fascinating artifacts, historic buildings, and picturesque grounds. Families can take advantage of the playground and the Bear Art Gallery, both of which are free to access. While many of the park's attractions are complimentary, some museums and activities may require a nominal fee. Pioneer Park is open daily from 6:00 am to midnight, providing ample opportunity to experience its charm. During the summer season, from Memorial Day weekend in May through Labor Day in September, the park comes alive with additional offerings. Visitors can rent picnic shelters, browse shops featuring local artisans, and dine at various restaurants. Enjoy exciting activities such as train rides, mini-golf, and carousel rides, along with community events that bring the park to life. For a delightful dining experience, the Alaska Salmon Bake operates daily from 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm during the summer, while the Palace Theater hosts a

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Chena Hot Springs Resort

9.2mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 54 sites · Fairbanks, AK

Chena Hot Springs Resort is unique for its remarkable geothermal waters, which have drawn visitors from around the globe seeking relaxation and healing. The fame of these hot springs began when Alaska's delegate to Congress, Judge James Wickersham, requested an analysis of the waters from the Department of Agriculture. The Bureau of Chemistry examined three pints of the spring water and determined that it was unlike any other hot springs in the United States, primarily due to its distinctive composition of sulfate, chloride, and bicarbonate of sodium. Interestingly, its mineral content closely resembles that of a renowned hot spring in Bohemia. Today, Chena Hot Springs Resort is nestled in a pristine natural environment, approximately 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks. Accessible year-round via the well-maintained Chena Hot Springs Road, the resort offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the therapeutic benefits of the hot springs. Guests can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, snowmobiling, and dog sledding, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers. The resort also features amenities such as a restaurant and shops, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all who visit.

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Rivers Edge RV Park and Campground

17mi from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area · 34 sites · Fairbanks, AK

Experience the unparalleled beauty of Alaska at the River's Edge Resort, a unique destination nestled in the heart of Fairbanks. Open from mid-May to mid-September, this resort offers a perfect blend of comfort and nature, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning Alaskan landscape. Spanning 13 acres of pristine wilderness, the River's Edge Resort features charming cottages with either River or Garden views, providing a serene escape. Guests can indulge in delectable dining at Chena's Alaskan Grill, located along the banks of the Chena River, where fresh Alaskan seafood and other culinary delights await. Start your day with a hearty breakfast buffet at the Miner's Hall Café, and don’t forget to explore our gift shops for unique Alaskan souvenirs, snacks, and sundries. For those traveling with RVs, the River's Edge RV Park offers 167 well-appointed sites, ensuring a memorable outdoor experience. Our dedicated team is committed to exceeding guest expectations, making your Alaskan adventure truly unforgettable. Enjoy the magic of Alaska at the River's Edge Resort, where nature and comfort come together seamlessly.

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The best camping in Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, AK 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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2 ratings · 1 review

August 2017

Olnes Pond Campground

I have camped here and we had a great time. Along with the features listed, there are also trash cans near the out houses. ATV riding in and around the campground is allowed and there are a lot of ATV trails leading right from different spots in the campground.