Best Campgrounds near Fairbanks, AK

Camping near Fairbanks, Alaska encompasses a mix of established campgrounds, RV parks, and state recreation areas set among birch forests and along scenic waterways. The Chena River corridor hosts several camping options, including River Park Campground and the Chena Lake Recreation Area, which features family-friendly amenities and waterfront sites. In-town options include Tanana Valley Campground near the fairgrounds and Pioneer Park, which provides economical parking lot-style camping with access to city attractions. For those seeking more natural settings, the Lower and Upper Chatanika State Recreation Areas north of town offer riverside camping with fishing opportunities.

Most campgrounds in the Fairbanks area operate seasonally from mid-May through mid-September, with a few year-round exceptions. Summer brings extended daylight hours with temperatures typically ranging from 60-80°F, while mosquitoes are notably abundant from June through August. Cell service is generally reliable at campgrounds within 20 miles of Fairbanks but becomes spotty in more remote locations. Reservations are recommended for established campgrounds during peak summer months, especially around holidays and during special events. Many campgrounds provide potable water and basic toilet facilities, though amenities vary significantly between locations.

Camping options around Fairbanks cater to different preferences and needs. Urban campgrounds like Tanana Valley provide electric hookups, showers, and laundry facilities, making them suitable for longer stays while exploring the city. According to reviews, "It's super convenient to stores and restaurants in Fairbanks," though events at the adjacent fairgrounds can create noise. For families, Chena Lake Recreation Area offers "a beach area with grassy and sandy areas, trails, basketball courts, and volleyball courts," making it particularly appealing for those with children. Military personnel have additional options at Fort Wainwright's camping facilities, which are restricted to service members and their families. Visitors seeking hot springs can camp at Chena Hot Springs Resort, about 60 miles northeast of Fairbanks, where camping areas are available alongside the resort's thermal pools.

Best Camping Sites Near Fairbanks, Alaska (46)

    1. Tanana Valley Campground

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

    "This is a great location, right in Fairbanks by the fairgrounds. Don’t book site 28 or 27 as you will end up camping in a parking lot."

    "When in Fairbanks this is my families go to spot. There is often stuff going on here so be prepared for music."

    2. Pioneer Park

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

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

    "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."

    3. Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    5 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"

    4. Fairbanks / Chena River KOA

    4 Reviews
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    4 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."

    "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."

    5. Chena Lake Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    North Pole, AK
    14 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."

    6. River Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Badger, AK
    14 miles
    Website

    "We wanted to experience a couple campsites in the area near Fairbanks and this was the most 'central' that we found to all the attractions in Fairbanks."

    "The Chena runs for a very long way through AK and there are several campgrounds near this river. This particular campground is centrally located in Fairbanks and has everything you need."

    7. Military Park Fort Wainwright Chena Cove Campground

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

    "Loved the location"

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

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

    "Great rates loved the location"

    9. Why Knot Sleep Here

    1 Review
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    7 miles

    $40 / night

    10. Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 269-8400

    $45 / night

    "We had just stayed at Whitefish Campground about 2 miles away and driving into Olnes Pond Campground was beautiful. The electronic option to pay here is the first time I’ve seen that in Alaska."

    "We found a path through the woods that lead to a clean rocky water area the kids spent hours in. The spot next to ours had a fire ring with benches all around and a wonderful grassy area to play in."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 46 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Fairbanks, AK

117 Reviews of 46 Fairbanks Campgrounds



Guide to Fairbanks

Camping near Fairbanks, Alaska, offers a unique experience with stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly spot, there's something for everyone in this beautiful region.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area is perfect for hiking and fishing. Campers at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area enjoyed the scenic views and wildlife, with one reviewer saying, "We saw a beaver and a hawk catch a fish right in front of us which was cool."
  • Visit Chena Hot Springs: Just a short drive from many campgrounds, this natural hot spring is a must-see. Campers at Rosehip Campground appreciated the proximity, noting, "This campground is beautiful! Surrounded by birch trees with huge, private spots."
  • Enjoy water activities: Many campgrounds, like Harding Lake State Recreation Area, offer swimming and boating opportunities. One visitor mentioned, "There was a fun water area for the children."

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Campers at Tanana Valley Campground appreciated the room between sites, with one saying, "The sites are spacious a decent distance from neighbors."
  • Clean facilities: Many campers noted the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A reviewer at Chena Lake Recreation Area remarked, "Clean, friendly, safe."
  • Wildlife sightings: Campers love the chance to see wildlife. One camper at Lower Chatanika River State Recreation Area shared, "We found a path through the woods that led to a clean rocky water area the kids spent hours in."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Many campgrounds, including Harding Lake State Recreation Area, have reported high mosquito activity. A visitor warned, "The mosquitoes were unbearable outside."
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Campers at Pioneer Park noted the lack of facilities, stating, "It’s nice if you need a place to stay. Just a parking lot, nothing fancy."
  • Seasonal access: Some campgrounds, like River Park Campground, are only open during specific months. A reviewer mentioned, "Wonderful campground if you are looking to get away from town but still in close proximity."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring bug spray: With mosquitoes being a common issue, it's essential to come prepared. A camper at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area advised, "Bring all the bug repellant and preventative measures you can muster."
  • Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places with playgrounds or water access. Campers at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground enjoyed the nearby restaurant and activities, saying, "The campground offers wifi and is right along the Chena River."
  • Plan for some noise: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Tanana Valley Campground noted, "It was super convenient to stores/restaurants in Fairbanks."

Tips from RVers:

  • Reserve your spot early: Popular campgrounds can fill up quickly. A reviewer at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground suggested, "It is always worth it to reserve your site online before you get there."
  • Check for full hookups: If you need amenities, make sure to choose a campground that offers them. Campers at Chena Lake Recreation Area appreciated the availability of drinking water and dump stations.
  • Be mindful of space: Some campgrounds can feel tight. A visitor at Tanana Valley Campground mentioned, "It’s a small campground so close to your neighbors but it’s in a big town."

Camping around Fairbanks, Alaska, can be a fantastic adventure filled with nature, wildlife, and family fun. Just remember to prepare for the unique challenges and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the camping season in Fairbanks, Alaska and how does weather affect it?

The camping season in Fairbanks typically runs from mid-May through mid-September, with peak season occurring June through August. Weather varies dramatically, with summer highs reaching 70-80°F and almost continuous daylight during June and July. By fall, when many locals enjoy places like Ophir Creek Campground, temperatures cool significantly and the vibrant autumn colors make for spectacular scenery. Mosquitoes can be intense, especially in early summer at places like Upper Chatanika River State Rec Area. Most campgrounds close by late September as temperatures drop and winter approaches. Some year-round dispersed camping options exist, but extreme winter conditions make camping challenging from October through April.

What are the best tent camping options near Fairbanks?

Tent campers near Fairbanks have several excellent options with natural settings and amenities. Cripple Creek Campground is ideal for tent camping with 12 well-spaced sites in a beautiful BLM-managed area near the Chatanika River. The sites are perfect for tents and small trailers but too compact for large RVs. For riverside camping, River Park Campground offers good privacy and access to water activities. If you're seeking more solitude, dispersed camping is available along many roads outside Fairbanks, offering basic spots to set up tents with no amenities but plenty of peace. Be prepared for mosquitoes at all locations, especially during early summer. Most tent-friendly campgrounds have basic amenities like pit toilets and fire rings but limited or no showers.

Where can I find RV parks in Fairbanks with full hookups?

Fairbanks offers several quality RV parks with full hookups to accommodate larger rigs. Fairbanks / Chena River KOA provides full hookup sites including 50-amp service in a location slightly removed from highway noise, making it a popular choice. The campground is accessible via the Badger Road exit and offers convenient pull-through sites. Tanana Valley Campground provides another option with full hookups right in Fairbanks by the fairgrounds, though some sites (particularly 27 and 28) are essentially in a parking lot. Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground is another well-regarded option for full-service RV camping. For those with military connections, Fort Wainwright's Glass Park RV Park offers full hookup sites. Most RV parks in the area are open from mid-May through September.

What are the best campgrounds in Fairbanks, Alaska?

The Fairbanks area offers excellent camping options with diverse amenities and settings. Harding Lake State Recreation Area is highly rated for its shady, scenic sites about twenty minutes from North Pole, providing a peaceful lake setting with good amenities. Chena Hot Springs Resort offers a unique experience with camping options near natural hot springs, providing both creek-side privacy and open RV parking with electrical hookups. Other popular options include River Park Campground for its central location to Fairbanks attractions and Cripple Creek Campground which features spacious sites in a natural setting, though it's better suited for smaller RVs and tent camping. For convenience within Fairbanks itself, Pioneer Park and Tanana Valley Campground offer in-town options.