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Best Campgrounds near Badger, AK

111 Reviews

Campgrounds in the Badger, Alaska area range from established facilities to military-operated sites, with most located along the Chena River system. Fairbanks/Chena River KOA offers 150 sites with full hookups for RVs and tent camping areas, while Chena Lake Recreation Area provides more natural settings with both lakefront and wooded sites. The North Pole and Fairbanks vicinity contains several mixed-use campgrounds that accommodate both tent and RV camping, with Tanana Valley Campground and River Park Campground serving as popular options for visitors seeking developed facilities near urban amenities.

Most campgrounds in the Badger area operate seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-September, with very limited winter camping options. "We stayed here for 2 nights over memorial weekend. Clean campground with pull through sites. Great playground for kids, and lake with tons of activities 4 minute walk away," notes one camper about Chena Lake Recreation Area. Road access to most sites remains good throughout the operating season, with gravel roads leading to many of the campgrounds. Water quality varies by location, with some sites reporting non-potable water issues at certain times of the year. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly even during summer months, and mosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a consideration when camping in the region.

Riverside camping locations receive particular praise from visitors to the area. The Chena River corridor provides numerous camping options with water access and scenic views. One camper described River Park Campground as a place where "wooded areas are composed of mostly white birch" and noted it was "clean, equipped, and cheap." Many campgrounds feature spacious sites with adequate distance between neighbors, fire rings, and picnic tables. The military campgrounds like Fort Wainwright Chena Cove and Eielson AFB Bear Lake cater specifically to service members and veterans, though conditions at these facilities can vary widely. Several campgrounds near Badger provide boat launches or water access points, making them attractive bases for fishing or paddling adventures on the region's lakes and rivers.

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Best Camping Sites Near Badger, Alaska (44)

    1. Chena Lake Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    North Pole, AK
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 459-1070

    $15 - $50 / night

    "This is the 1st campground my family and I stayed at Alaska. The Chena Lake is great! The beach area is great fun for all with grassy and sandy areas."

    "All the sites are spacious a decent distance from neighbors. Centralized Water, bathrooms, and a dump station are available. Sites are a short drive to the swim beach."

    2. River Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Badger, AK
    6 miles
    Website

    "Wonderful campground if you are looking to get away from town but still in close proximity. Well maintained camping area, with options to camp on an island in the middle of the lake."

    "I’m not sure if we planned the trip around the largest mosquito outbreak ever but this is the first time I wanted a head net! :) the bugs were terrible but the campsite wonderful."

    3. Fairbanks / Chena River KOA

    4 Reviews
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 488-6392

    $50 - $80 / night

    "For once in a long time on our journey through Alaska, the campground (CG) was not right off the highway."

    "The bathrooms are a bit of a walk from the tents, but the wonderful and free showers are nice. The laundry, showers, and bathrooms are well-kept and a nice luxury."

    4. Tanana Valley Campground

    8 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 456-7956

    "Location close to town, but you feel like your in the forest. I got great Service!"

    "The cost is not back and you have all the things you need within driving distance."

    5. Pioneer Park

    6 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 459-1087

    "It’s 12 bucks a night, which in Alaska in the summer in a city is cheap. The park is like an old time amusement park without rides. It is really cool though."

    "The water spigot is on the south side of lot near the turn in. The trash cans can get full quick. "

    6. Military Park Fort Wainwright Chena Cove Campground

    2 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 388-0642

    "Loved the location"

    7. Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 474-0286

    "Located right along the Chena River this RV Resort has a gift shop for when you need a candy fix or warmer swearer and the availability to book direct for Riverboat Discovery, historic Fairbanks tour,"

    "Cell Service: yes Internet: yes 2020 Cost: $64.95-$34.95 Distance from Anchorage: 365 miles Best sites: Along the River Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 5"

    8. Why Knot Sleep Here

    1 Review
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    7 miles

    $40 / night

    9. Eielson AFB Bear Lake

    2 Reviews
    Eielson AFB, AK
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 377-1232

    10. Military Park Fort Wainwright Glass Park RV Park & Outdoor Adventure

    1 Review
    Fairbanks, AK
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 388-0642

    "Great rates loved the location"

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Recent Camping Photos near Badger, AK

17 Photos of 44 Badger Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Badger, AK

111 Reviews of 44 Badger Campgrounds

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2025

    Eielson AFB Bear Lake

    Seen Better Days

    While staying in North Pole, AK, we decided to check out Eielson AFB Bear Lake FamCamp as we’d heard from other military RVers and on different forums that the campground was not worth staying at. On the major RV review sites the most recent review was from 2023. We normally don’t post reviews on a campground (CG) we didn’t stay at, but made an exception to help other military RVers out. As we entered the campground, we noticed that there were not many campers (there was what looked like a camp host, but no sign), 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. There are pull-through sites on one row that could handle big rigs and then back-in sites of various lengths on another row. These sites are water and electric 50 and 30 AMP). However, on most sites you would need to cut brush and low-hanging limbs. There were signs on the bathhouse and laundry facility that the water was bad due to too much chlorine. They do have a dump station. There’s a lake at the end of the CG area, but the grass again was so high it was up through the picnic tables along the shoreline. Based on the CG’s condition and distance from the sights to see in the Fairbanks area, this in our opinion is not a good CG choice, especially with taller 5th wheels or Class A rigs. Fort Wainwright, which is closer to Fairbanks, has Glass Park RV Campground on post and they have sites that should fit bigger rigs according to the site sizes on their webpage.

  • Janet P.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground

    Awful place

    The sites are crammed together. The neighbors sewer pipe right next to your picnic table. Lots not mowed. Had to walk through weeds. Staff very unfriendly. I would rather stay at walmart.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2025

    Fairbanks / Chena River KOA

    One of the Best KOAs We've Stayed

    For once in a long time on our journey through Alaska, the campground (CG) was not right off the highway. We followed our RV GPS to the Badger Road exit and found the CG tucked back from the main road. Check-in was busy but quick. We were assigned pull-through site 133D with full hookups and 50 AMP. This site has special routing instructions—staff had us drive a few hundred yards down Old Badger Road, which runs adjacent to the CG, to enter through the back KOA gate. From there, it was an easy approach into our site. Site 133D is a KOA Patio site with a deluxe Trex deck, outdoor furniture, propane fire pit, and a Weber propane grill with tools. The gravel pad was long enough for our 40’ toy hauler and F450, with room to put down our rear patio. On arrival, the CG WiFi was unusable, but we got an email update that they were working on it. A later speed test showed 4.97 Mbps download—good enough for email and light browsing. Starlink worked but was slower than usual in this area despite a clear sky view. We got one bar on both Verizon and T-Mobile. 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. All in all, this is one of the best private CGs we’ve stayed at. If you need a great vet while in the area, we highly recommend Dr. Dawn Brown at North Pole Veterinary Hospital. They are an AAHA accredited clinic and we’ sure all the vets are great, but we definitely had a wonderful experience with Dr. Brown during our appointment with our two Braque's. The CG made an excellent base for exploring the Fairbanks area.

  • S
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Tanana Valley Campground

    Friendly and very helpful park staff

    Great location and very friendly staff.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    roadside camping spot

    Stay while waiting for appt in Fairbanks

    Waiting on an appointment in Fairbanks. Drove out of the city and found this place. It is close to the highway but was pretty quiet for sleeping.
    Good open area so solar and Starlink were happy. Easy to get level.
    Was a little buggy when we were there. Good spot to kill some time and relax outside Fairbanks

  • Wes F.
    Aug. 18, 2024

    Chena Lake Recreation Area

    Close to town but still in the sticks

    We stayed on the river side of Chena lakes campground. Had a great huge pull through campsite. Lots of room for our three dogs. Ranger patrolled on the regular making us feel safe and keeping things in order.

  • Kevin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Pioneer Park

    Level parking lot, access to Pioneer Park

    Great location. Level. Water available. Stopped to restock after Denali visit. Pioneer Park also has some food vendors - had me done tacos

    Next to fairly busy road - quietens down overnight, but not completely

    5 day limit

  • K
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Pioneer Park

    convenient and low cost stay in Fairbanks

    We stayed here in a 40' 5th wheel. We parked in the west row along the trees. This was a good spot, but the sun goes behing the trees about 5 in summer, if you are looking for solar charging. We noted that the parking rules are pretty loose as to where you stay. If the RV spots are full, we saw several just pick a spot in the regular lot.  If you keep a clean area you may be able to stay more than 5 days, we did.  The water spigot is on the south side of lot near the turn in. The trash cans can get full quick.  The pay stand is on the north side of lot near the first entrance to Pioneer Park, by the small shack. No out of state checks. You can also pay in the office inside the park during business hours. 

      It can be noisy at times because of the close intersection. Some generators are LOUD and one guy ran his about 12 hours a day. I would think an extra battery would be cheaper than all that fuel. 

      It is a very busy place with the park and Alaska Bake activity. Lots of cars and the lot gets pretty full with that sometimes.

      Free dump and water fill at the Sourdough gas station located at Van Horn and Lathrop streets just a few miles south, with easy rig access. 

      We would stay again if we ever go back to Fairbanks.

Guide to Badger

Camping near Badger, Alaska, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. One reviewer at Harding Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "The water was so high that the only water play area was the boat launch area," highlighting the fun of fishing and water activities.
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area shared, "There were multiple bathrooms throughout the campground," making it easy to enjoy a day of hiking without worrying about facilities.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Rosehip Campground noted, "We saw a beaver and a hawk catch a fish right in front of us which was cool."

What campers like

  • Spacious Sites: Campers appreciate the roomy sites at Chena Lake Recreation Area. A reviewer said, "Had a great huge pull-through campsite. Lots of room for our three dogs."
  • Clean Facilities: Many visitors mention the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One camper at Tanana Valley Campground remarked, "Bathrooms & laundry are good!" which adds to the overall experience.
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often highlight the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at River Park Campground said, "Staff was courteous and helpful," making their stay more enjoyable.

What you should know

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in spring and summer. A visitor at Harding Lake State Recreation Area warned, "The mosquitoes were unbearable outside," so bring plenty of bug spray.
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full amenities. A camper at Pioneer Park noted, "It’s nice if you need a place to stay. Just a parking lot, nothing fancy."
  • Seasonal Access: Check the campground seasons before you go. For example, River Park Campground is open from June 10 to August 10, so plan accordingly.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. One family at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area mentioned, "The kids spent hours in the clean rocky water area."
  • Pack Outdoor Games: Bring along games for the kids to play outside. A reviewer at Tanana Valley Campground suggested, "The baseball/soccer field on site was a lot of fun for the children."
  • Plan for Quiet Time: Make sure to have downtime. A camper at Chena Lake Recreation Area appreciated the "fairly quiet all night" atmosphere, which is great for families.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground said, "The river spots are a little extra a night but well worth it."
  • Reserve Ahead: It’s a good idea to book your spot in advance. A camper at Tanana Valley Campground noted, "If the RV spots are full, we saw several just pick a spot in the regular lot."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials before you arrive. A visitor at Pioneer Park mentioned, "The closest store is about 10 minutes down the road," so plan accordingly.

Camping around Badger, AK, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Badger, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, Badger, AK offers a wide range of camping options, with 44 campgrounds and RV parks near Badger, AK and 4 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Badger, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Badger, AK is Chena Lake Recreation Area with a 4.6-star rating from 10 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Badger, AK?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 4 free dispersed camping spots near Badger, AK.

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