Chena Hot Springs Resort, near Fairbanks, Alaska, is a unique spot that combines the thrill of camping with the relaxation of natural hot springs. This place is all about soaking in the warm waters after a day of exploring, and it’s a popular destination for those looking to unwind in a stunning natural setting.

The campground offers a mix of dry camping options, with some sites nestled among trees for a bit of privacy. Visitors have mentioned the convenience of having potable water and a dump station on-site, making it easier to enjoy your stay. As one camper noted, “Camping and soaking are charged separately,” so keep that in mind when planning your budget.

The hot springs are the main attraction, and they don’t disappoint. Reviewers rave about the experience, even if it can get a bit crowded at times. One visitor said, “The hot springs were so hot we definitely recommend visiting in cooler weather to really enjoy them.” Beyond soaking, there are plenty of activities like hiking, fishing, and even dog sledding to keep you busy.

If you’re up for a little adventure, the Ice Museum is a must-see, though it’s good to check ahead for availability. With a restaurant on-site serving up tasty meals, you won’t have to worry about cooking after a long day of fun. Chena Hot Springs Resort is a fantastic choice for those looking to mix relaxation with outdoor activities in a breathtaking Alaskan landscape.

Chena Hot Springs Resort

Eielson AFB is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Eielson AFB is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Eielson AFB, AK. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

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The Best Camping Near Eielson AFB, Alaska

I live here and completely recommend a visit our way :)

Amazing! 

Very nice

Kids cannot go in the hot springs
This campground is first come first served.  If you don’t mind walking, then you can stay anywhere in the campground.  If your main reason for visiting is the Hot Springs, then closer to the resort is best.  If you are traveling with children, they can go in the swimming pools but not the hot springs them selves which is really why we all go here.  I have been here in the dead of winter in the bitter cold and there is nothing like jumping in the Hot Springs even if its overcast.  The springs are AMAZING.  There are plenty of things to see if you are traveling to or from Anchorage.  The pipeline runs up the Richardson Highway, you can tour the ice house, and if you have time a stop at the world famous Skinny Dick’s Halfway Inn is worth a stop and a t-shirt.
 
Cell Service: no
Internet: no
2020 Cost: $30
Distance from Anchorage: 426 miles
Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 5
 

So worth it-kids not allowed in Hot springs 

We had so much fun at Chena Hot Springs. There is so much to do! Aurora viewing, cozy cabins, hot springs, pool, Ice Museum, dog sledding, dining, and so much more. 

The resort could use a major refresh and there were busloads of tourists when we visited in November, but it is still worth checking out if you can. 

The aurora is spectacular and I would love to go back for a trip in the summer.

A Winter Wonderland

Defined try the ice museum tour it was so cool! The appletinis are great too. The hot springs were so hot we definitely recommend visiting in cooler weather to really enjoy them 

Such a cool experience 

20 a site, dry. There are a few sites that have trees surrounding the sites, offering a bit of privacy. A few sites are open and face the resort and road. Potable water and dump station on grounds. 15 per adult (over 18, per day) to get into the hot springs. Pool and hot tub also available. Hiking trails, fishing in the Beaver Lake, and a tour of the ice castle. Restaurant/bar has great food and all of the workers were congenial. We enjoyed our time and will stay again!  


Boondocking with plenty to do

Chena Hot Springs offers a full resort experience with hotel rooms, cabins, restaurants, and a host of activities including soaking in the infamous hot pools. It also offers camping with and without electrical hook-ups in either creek side privacy or open lot RV parking. It is a world-famous destination with shuttle buses to and from Fairbanks daily. You will meet people from all over the world. 

  

Camping and soaking are charged separately, as are any extra experiences like the Ice Museum (glad I did it, not sure I would again).  Vault toilets, rubbish and recycling bins, and potable water are all available in the campsite, flush toilets and showers are a part of the pool/hot springs facility. Hiking, biking, boating and fishing are all available close by in addition to the experiences offered by the resort. 

  

The nearest services for groceries are about 45 miles back down the road toward Fairbanks, or North Pole, AK. We camped in the primitive area, which was lovely, forested and right along the creek, but the opportunity for solar power collection was limited by the trees, so plan ahead.  We parked in the main lot for awhile to recharge, then took our rig back into the campground.  Worked well!

Forest Camping + Hot Springs = Heaven!

We came here a month ago in November for a last minute winter getaway. We rented the Forget-me-Not cabin. It’s a dry cabin with an outhouse, but it does have electricity and a DVD player. Just make sure you bring your own DVDs if you plan to use it. 

The cabin itself was very rustic and outdated, but a great size for two couples. The provided toaster caught on fire as soon as we turned it on. We told the front desk and they didn’t seem surprised. 

Obviously the Hot Springs was the main attraction. It was AMAZING! Definitely a must see. Their restaurant was really good too. No cell service, but WIFI in the main lodge. 

Rustic Cabin Winter Getaway

Awesome to be able to camp at the resort with easy access to the Hot Springs. Dry camping no amenities except a outdoor bathroom. River behind the spots though, spots close together and close to camping. Level spots but wet from rain. Puddles etc....no internet. You got 10 free minutes by the lodge but then you are prompter to start paying. Did get to see the Northern lights so that was a bonus. Missed the ice museum as it said closed for maintenance on the website and when we got there is appeared you could get in by tours. It was too late by that time.

Hot springs are nice but it was chaos! Line to get in and the locker rooms are a nightmare. The springs had a lot of people in them but it wasn't terrible and you could still relax.

Photos of Chena Hot Springs Resort

Real photos from real campers