Chena Lake Recreation Area and surrounding campgrounds offer diverse options for pet friendly camping near Badger, Alaska. Located in the Interior region approximately 14 miles southeast of Fairbanks, this area sits at an elevation of 446 feet and experiences temperature swings from -50°F in winter to 90°F in summer. The relatively flat terrain features black spruce forests interspersed with birch groves and access to multiple waterways.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Chena Lake Recreation Area provides excellent chances to spot local wildlife with your pets. "The Chena Lake is great! The beach area is great fun for all with grassy and sandy areas. There is a bunch of trails to hike around, paved biking trails, a basketball court, volleyball courts and of course a playground," notes Kela W. in her review of Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Water recreation access: Many campgrounds offer direct river or lake access where dogs can cool off. "We stayed on the river side of Chena lakes campground. Had a great huge pull through campsite. Lots of room for our three dogs," writes Wes F. about his experience at Chena Lake.
Trail exploration: Rosehip Campground offers extensive hiking options. "This campground is bigger than it looks. There are so many connecting trails it is worth exploring. This is also very close to Chena Hot-springs which is definitely a must stop if you have time," explains Tanya B.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many pet owners appreciate the room to spread out. "Very well maintained campground with lots to offer. Staff was courteous and helpful. This campground offers both back in and pull through boondock sites. All the sites are spacious a decent distance from neighbors," reports Chris D. about his stay at Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Private river access: Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area offers secluded spots. "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," shares Samantha M.
Fenced dog areas: Some campgrounds provide designated spaces for off-leash play. "This is a well-run KOA, with staff constantly mowing, cleaning, and maintaining the grounds. During our stay, several RV caravans came through—they had their own designated area and even buses for tours. The CG has spaces for all types of campers, from tents to big rigs. There's a laundry facility, two fenced dog parks, swing benches by the river, and plenty of space to walk your dog," notes MickandKarla W.
What you should know
Bug presence varies: Mosquitoes can be problematic throughout summer. "These spots are fairly dispersed. Some have picnic tables and fire pits at them others don't. It didn't seem too crowded but there were a few other people around us," explains Riley N. about Whitefish Campground, which offers sites directly on the river with low traffic.
Seasonal amenities: Many facilities close 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. Just an FYI the bathrooms are locked after Labor Day," warns Tanya B.
Varying water quality: Some campgrounds have water restrictions. "We noticed that there were not many campers, and could immediately see why. The sites had non-potable per signs attached to the water spigot. We also noticed that many of the sites were grown over," reports MickandKarla W. about one military campground.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "We stayed here for 2 nights free and paid for 3 nights over memorial weekend. Clean campground with pull through sites. Great playground for kids, and lake with tons of activities 4 minute walk away," shares Bradee A. about Chena Lake.
Consider fishing opportunities: Harding Lake State Recreation Area offers water activities that kids enjoy. "This was a campground with a fun water area for the children. There was a boat launch and water that we could walk very far out in with the children. There were about 70-80 site options, nice walking/bike trails, picnic areas, fire rings, water play area," writes Samantha M.
Look for athletic facilities: Some campgrounds have unexpected recreational amenities. "The sandlot-reminiscent baseball field was a rare and magical find that suited our family's wiffleball addiction perfectly. It's like wandering through a moss grove and emerging into a boreal baseball field. A subarctic Field of Dreams," explains Andrew V. about Harding Lake.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Not all pet friendly campgrounds near Badger provide full hookups. "Easy to use class 1 download," notes Joe C. about the dump station at Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Electrical capacity: Check amperage requirements before booking. "This is a great place to stay near North Pole/Fairbanks. They were really helpful with booking. The sites have enough space between for slide outs, but still a little tight. Really nice view of the Chena River," explains Megan B. about Fairbanks / Chena River KOA.
Budget options: For cost-conscious RVers with pets, consider campgrounds with lower fees. "Electric at site, water and dump stations. Bathrooms & laundry and for 1/2 the price of everywhere around. But bring bug dope!" advises Bradee A. about Tanana Valley Campground.
