What is the elevation of Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area?

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is located at 607 feet.

What is the max vehicle length at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area?

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area allows vehicles up to 35 feet.

Are fires allowed at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area does not have wifi.

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Reviews

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Nature

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Buildings

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Water

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Established Camping

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

4 Reviews

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Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, near Fairbanks, Alaska, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying some outdoor fun. This campground offers a mix of tent and RV sites, with plenty of space for families or groups to set up camp and enjoy the great Alaskan outdoors.

The area is well-maintained, and visitors rave about the beautiful pond at the center, which is perfect for kayaking and fishing. As one camper noted, “We got a spot right on the pond; it was so pretty!” You’ll find picnic tables and fire rings scattered throughout, making it easy to gather around for meals or evening campfires.

For adventure seekers, the campground is surrounded by ATV trails, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Wildlife sightings are a bonus, with campers reporting beavers and hawks right by the water. Just keep in mind that while swimming is an option, some folks have mentioned being cautious of duck itch.

With no reservations needed and a laid-back vibe, Lower Chatanika is a great choice for spontaneous getaways. Whether you’re fishing, paddling, or just soaking in the views, this spot has a little something for everyone.

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Location

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is located in Alaska

Directions

From the George Parks Hwy, this turns into the Robert Mitchell Expy, exit Steese Hwy, this will turn into the New Steese Hwy. Stay on Steese, this will turn into the Elliott Hwy. Located at milepost 11 of the Elliott Hwy. From the Richardson Hwy, exit Steese Hwy, this will turn into the New Steese Hwy. Stay on Steese, this will turn into the Elliott Hwy. Located at milepost 11 of the Elliott Hwy.

Coordinates

65.08660227 N
147.729402 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site

Stay Connected

WiFi
Poor
Verizon
Good
AT&T
Available
T-Mobile
Unknown

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Firewood Available
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

Pull-Through Sites

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

32 min from Fairbanks

Katie E.

Traveler

Reviewed Jul. 23, 2022

ATV TRAILS!!

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.

Site#1

Month of VisitJuly

(5) View All

Riley N.

Legend

Reviewed Jul. 20, 2022

Pretty views cool wildlife

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.

Site4

Month of VisitJuly

(9) View All

Tanya B.

Legend

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2020

Amazing little campground

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.

(13) View All

Samantha M.

Ranger

Reviewed May. 30, 2020

Well maintained, great ATV trails

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.

(9) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the elevation of Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area?
Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is located at 607 feet.
What is the max vehicle length at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area?
Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area allows vehicles up to 35 feet.
Are fires allowed at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area?
Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.
Does Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area have wifi?
No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area does not have wifi.

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