Fairbanks sits at the junction of the Chena and Tanana rivers in Alaska's interior region, approximately 358 miles north of Anchorage at an elevation of 446 feet. The area experiences extreme temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 80°F and winter lows plunging to -40°F. Glamping in Fairbanks, Alaska offers visitors the opportunity to experience these dramatic seasonal changes with significantly more comfort than traditional tent camping provides.
What to do
Hiking trails: The Chena River State Recreation Area features numerous trails through boreal forest environments. One visitor noted, "Hiking trails weave through the surrounding boreal forest, while winter visitors can witness the northern lights from their comfortable accommodations."
Water recreation: At Harding Lake State Recreation Area, visitors can enjoy multiple water activities during summer months. According to a camper, "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."
Ice Museum tour: Beyond hot springs, Chena Hot Springs Resort offers unique Alaskan cultural experiences. A visitor mentioned, "Defined try the ice museum tour it was so cool! The appletinis are great too."
Baseball field: Some Fairbanks glamping locations feature unexpected recreational amenities. One family discovered, "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."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Harding Lake State Recreation Area offers well-designed sites that maintain separation. As one camper explained, "It felt like there were plenty of camping options with privacy. There were plenty of opportunities to view wildlife as moose came running through our campsite."
Clean facilities: Despite rustic surroundings, many glamping locations maintain exceptional standards. A visitor observed, "The campground boasted some of the cleanest bathrooms I've ever seen, anywhere - with a very friendly on-site host who came by to chat and kept the facilities in pristine condition."
Natural setting close to town: River Park Campground combines accessibility with natural immersion. According to one review, "We were delighted how this campground (in a city) feels like wilderness. In late Aug it was getting cooler and sparsely populated. In July, it was pretty crowded but the camp sites aren't right on top of each other and there is foliage around."
Hot spring access: Luxury glamping sites with mineral waters remain popular year-round. A visitor explained, "We parked in the main lot for awhile to recharge, then took our rig back into the campground. Worked well!"
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Summer visitors should prepare for significant insect activity. One camper advised, "The mosquitoes were unbearable outside and in 73 degree weather you needed to be completely covered."
Children's access restrictions: Salcha River State Recreation Site offers family-friendly options, but some facilities have age limitations. As one visitor noted, "Kids cannot go in the hot springs. If you are traveling with children, they can go in the swimming pools but not the hot springs themselves which is really why we all go here."
Limited services: Many glamping locations require advance preparation. A camper explained, "The nearest services for groceries are about 45 miles back down the road toward Fairbanks, or North Pole, AK."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels impact recreational opportunities significantly. One visitor shared, "The water was so high that the only water play area was the boat launch area. The kids still had a great time but I would check the water level before coming back."
Tips for camping with families
Consider wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy animal sightings near glamping accommodations. One family noted, "There were plenty of opportunities to view wildlife as moose came running through our campsite."
Pack extra bug protection: Insect activity can significantly impact children's outdoor experience. A parent advised, "Bring all the bug repellant and preventative measures you can muster. I was swarmed by a biblical cloud of man-eating Culicidae when we first pulled in."
Look for water recreation: Chena River State Recreation Area offers water-based activities for children. A visitor shared, "This campground had a roped off beach area where people played, lounged, kayak/canoe and spent all day. If we came again I would bring more beach appropriate items."
Bring DVDs for cabins: Some luxury glamping accommodations include entertainment options. A family recommended, "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."
Tips from RVers
Consider site proximity to amenities: When glamping in Fairbanks at full-service resorts, location matters. One RVer explained, "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."
Solar limitations in wooded sites: Chena Hot Springs Resort offers beautiful forested sites with power challenges. An RVer noted, "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."
Check dump station locations: Not all glamping sites offer full hookups. According to one camper, "Potable water and dump station on grounds. 15 per adult (over 18, per day) to get into the hot springs."
