Cabin accommodations near Eielson AFB offer wilderness experiences within Alaska's Interior region. Cabins are scattered across several recreation areas within a 60-mile radius of the base, with most positioned along rivers or lakes. Winter temperatures in this region can drop to -40°F, while summer brings temperatures ranging from 50-80°F with extended daylight hours.
What to do
Lake activities at Harding Lake: Harding Lake State Recreation Area provides opportunities for water recreation throughout summer months. One visitor noted, "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."
Soak in natural hot springs: Chena Hot Springs Resort offers year-round access to natural mineral pools. A camper mentioned, "The aurora is spectacular and I would love to go back for a trip in the summer." The resort offers additional activities including aurora viewing tours, dog sledding, and an ice museum.
Fishing opportunities: Salcha River State Recreation Site provides access to river fishing. A first-time angler shared, "Caught my first fish ever here! It was a catfish I think." The river also offers opportunities for boating and wildlife viewing.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many cabins in the area provide seclusion for a true wilderness experience. At Harding Lake State Recreation Area, a visitor observed, "The spaces were spaced out with privacy trees. I think we scored one of the best spots number 11."
Natural surroundings: The forested settings provide opportunities to encounter local wildlife. As one camper at Harding Lake shared, "There were plenty of opportunities to view wildlife as moose came running through our campsite."
Clean facilities: Several recreation sites maintain well-kept facilities despite remote locations. A visitor to Harding Lake noted, "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."
What you should know
Limited services: Most cabin areas require self-sufficiency. A camper at Chena Hot Springs Resort advised, "The nearest services for groceries are about 45 miles back down the road toward Fairbanks, or North Pole, AK."
Insect preparation: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity. One Harding Lake visitor warned, "The mosquitoes were unbearable outside and in 73 degree weather you needed to be completely covered."
Seasonal considerations: Water levels can affect recreation opportunities. A camper noted about Harding Lake, "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
Water recreation options: Harding Lake offers family-friendly swimming areas. A visitor shared, "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."
Rental equipment available: Some locations offer equipment for family activities. At Harding Lake, "There's a water toys rental by the boat launch that offers paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards $25/2 hours or $35 for all day. They are only open Friday-Sunday or by appointment."
Age restrictions: Chena River SRA Cabins and other facilities may have age-specific policies. A visitor to Chena Hot Springs noted, "Kids cannot go in the hot springs. This campground is first come first served. If you don't mind walking, then you can stay anywhere in the campground."
Tips from RVers
Electrical options: Several camping cabins near Eielson AFB provide electrical hookups. At Salcha River Public Use Cabin, electrical service is available year-round.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal facilities. At Chena Hot Springs, a camper noted, "Potable water and dump station on grounds. 15 per adult (over 18, per day) to get into the hot springs."
Solar considerations: Forest cover may limit solar charging capabilities. One RVer at Chena Hot Springs shared, "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."
