Best Campgrounds near Eielson AFB, AK

Camping near Eielson AFB, Alaska, offers a unique blend of wilderness and convenience. With stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds, outdoor enthusiasts can find the perfect spot to unwind and explore.

What to do:

• Hiking and Nature Trails: Explore the beautiful trails around Chena Lake Recreation Area. Campers have enjoyed the “lots of day use areas” and “plenty of places to sit and look out over the lakes and river,” making it a great spot for nature lovers.
• Water Activities: At Harding Lake State Recreation Area, families can enjoy swimming and kayaking. One visitor mentioned, “There was a fun water area for the children,” making it perfect for a hot summer day.
• Wildlife Watching: The Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is known for its wildlife. Campers have spotted beavers and hawks, adding excitement to their stay.

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One reviewer at River Park Campground noted, “The campground is well maintained, with options to camp on an island in the middle of the lake.”
• Spacious Campsites: Campers at Tanana Valley Campground enjoy the spacious sites. A visitor mentioned, “The sites are a decent distance from neighbors,” which adds to the overall experience.
• Friendly Staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. At Chena Lake Recreation Area, one camper said, “Ranger patrolled on the regular making us feel safe and keeping things in order.”

What you should know:

• Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially in spring and summer. A camper at Harding Lake State Recreation Area warned, “The mosquitoes were unbearable outside,” so bring plenty of bug spray.
• Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Rosehip Campground, have minimal facilities. A visitor noted, “There are no showers or electric hookups,” so plan accordingly.
• Seasonal Access: Check the season for each campground. For example, River Park Campground is open from June 10 to August 10, while others like Tanana Valley Campground are available from May 15 to September 15.

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for campgrounds that offer fun for kids. At Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, one family enjoyed, “The kids spent hours in the clean rocky water area.”
• Bring Outdoor Games: Many campers recommend bringing games for the kids. A visitor at Harding Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, “The baseball field was a rare and magical find,” perfect for family fun.
• Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A camper at Tanana Valley Campground noted, “It can be noisy at times because of the close intersection,” so be ready for some hustle and bustle.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground mentioned, “This RV park sits right on the banks of the Chena River,” which is great for views but check the space.
• Reserve Ahead: Many RVers recommend reserving your spot online. A camper at Pioneer Park said, “It’s nice if you need a place to stay,” but it can fill up quickly.
• Utilize Amenities: Take advantage of amenities like laundry and showers. A visitor at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground appreciated the “on-site laundry and showers,” making it easier for longer stays.

Camping near Eielson AFB, Alaska, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation. With various campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next outdoor getaway.