Lower Chatanika River State Recreation Area, near Fairbanks, Alaska, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its river access and a boat launch, it’s perfect for fishing or just enjoying the scenic views.

The campground offers a mix of sites, some with picnic tables and fire pits, while others provide a more secluded experience. Visitors have noted that the area is generally quiet, making it a great place to unwind. One camper mentioned, “We were the only ones there” during their visit, highlighting the peaceful atmosphere.

Families will find plenty to keep the kids entertained, with paths leading to clean, rocky areas along the river for splashing around. There are also multiple bathrooms scattered throughout the campground, which is a plus for convenience. Just be aware that the bathrooms lock up after Labor Day, so plan accordingly.

For those who enjoy exploring, there are trails nearby, and the area is known for its ATV activity. While some campers mentioned the bugs, they didn’t let that ruin their experience. As one reviewer put it, “The sound of the river and birds was peaceful,” making it a lovely backdrop for your camping adventure.

The Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area encompasses approximately 400 acres at mile 10.5 of the Elliot Highway. Developed sites within the recreation area include Olnes Pond and Whitefish campgrounds. The Lower Chatanika recreation area provides access to the Chatanika River and an abundance of recreational opportunities including: Camping, Fishing, Picnicking, Hiking, Berry Picking, Boating/Floating, ATV/Snowmachining, Ice Fishing, Dog Sledding, Night Sky Viewing, and Cross Country skiing to name a few.

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Join the fun near Fort Wainwright. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Alaska camping has to offer. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Fort Wainwright. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Fort Wainwright

The Best Camping Near Fort Wainwright, Alaska

My first thought when we drove into the campground was wow, this is nicely maintained. We had just stayed at Whitefish Campground about 2 miles away and driving into Olnes Pond Campground was beautiful.
The electronic option to pay here is the first time I’ve seen that in Alaska.
The pond is stocked with rainbow trout but we were a little too early in the season on this visit May 29, 2020.
There a nicely sized pond in the middle of the campground and the camping sites are situated around the entire pond.
There were day visitors who brought paddle boards and kayaks to enjoy the weather on the pond. People say you can swim in this pond put be weary of duck/swimmers itch.
There are picnic tables, bathrooms, trash cans, and lots of grassy area to just enjoy a day visit.
This seemed more as a party spot sort of camping oppose to enjoy the view and relax so be ready to hear ATVs and friendly conversations late at night.
I would definitely come back with a kayak and fishing pole once the pond is stocked for the children to enjoy a relaxing day on the pond.

Well maintained, great ATV trails

When we first got here we were the only ones parked on a Thursday morning. We didn’t have another occupant until the evening then by Friday late morning the place was booked.

We chose spot number 4 which has a private river access for fishing/viewing. We found a path through the woods that lead to a clean rocky water area the kids spent hours in. The spot next to ours had a fire ring with benches all around and a wonderful grassy area to play in. These two spots together would be the perfect group camping spot.

There was water here but a broken off handle so no access to the water was available.

There were multiple bathrooms (3 I believe) throughout the campground.

My 7 year old daughter wanted to take videos of the campsites and boat launch so I’ve attached those.

The boat launch was a popular drop off spot for fishing boats. We didn’t catch anything but my son had fun trying. We would like to come back this fall when it’s spear flashlight fishing time.

The birch trees had a lot of these green beetles on them that seemed to enjoy landing on you. There were plenty of mosquitoes and our hand held bug zapper came in handy but not enough to ruin your trip.

The kids were able to happily bike through the campground while I followed pushing a stroller. 

There were ATV trails but nothing that bothered us in the evening.

Falling asleep and waking up to the sound of the river and birds was peaceful.

Great for families with kids

Love how well maintained this campground was even during the pandemic. We came at the end of the season but I am sure this campground gets plenty of use during the peak season. This is one worth coming back to.  There are a number of larger parking spots and a great place to bring your kayak. Lots of ATV trails. 

Amazing little campground

This is an amazing little campground with river access and a boat launch. Just an FYI the bathrooms are locked after Labor Day. When we arrived in the middle of September we were the only ones there. If you get here and there are no spots there is another campground Olnes lake right down the road.  I look forward to coming back here more often. 

This is the Whitefish campground

Lots of bugs. Plenty of trails to explore. Campsites vary from spread-out to tight quarters. I’m talking about Olnes Pond. So many ATV riders tearing up the road. Bring a small boat or cast from shore for stocked small fish. 

Meh - a long drive for so-so

We got a spot right on the pond it was so pretty! We saw a beaver and a hawk catch a fish right in front of us which was cool. Grounds are clean and fairly spaced out. 

Pretty views cool wildlife 

Olnes pond campground has 1 cabin that you can reserve and pay fee online only. The campsites are FCFS and not reservable. Outhouses are decently placed around the pond. Good spacing between sites and close together sites for groups with multiple families, including spots on the pond edge. 

ATV TRAILS!!

These spots are fairly dispersed. Some have picnic tables and fire pits at them others don’t. It didn’t seem to crowded but there were a few other people around us. 

Photos of Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Real photos from real campers