Top Tent Camping near Fairbanks, AK

Searching for a tent campsite near Fairbanks? Find the best tent camping sites near Fairbanks. Would you prefer a quiet dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities? Either way, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Fairbanks, AK (11)

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      2.

      Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter

      1 Review
      Ester, Alaska

      The Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter was constructed in 1975 by the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC) as an emergency shelter for winter recreators. It is available on a first come first served basis and no fees are charged for its use. The 8' x 10' log cabin can sleep two people in bunk beds, and has a wood stove for heat. The shelter is equipped with one small bunk, a cook counter, propane cookstove and lantern, an ax and a bowsaw. The Wickersham Creek Trail Shelter is not accessible by ATV's in the summer. The Wickersham Creek trail summer conditions are poor and boggy and not recommended for hiking. ACTIVITIES Hiking Winter Sports Wildlife Viewing Fire Lookouts/cabins Overnight

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        3.

        Summit Trail

        1 Review
        Ester, Alaska

        From trailhead , the trail climbs over a small dome then drops into the trees before junction with the Ski Loop Trail. The trail continues to climb past Wickersham Dome to its highest point at 3,100 feet near mile ten. The trail then decends through the spruce forest to Beaver Creek and Borealis ?LeFevre Cabin. Crossing Beaver Creek in the summer can be very dangerous at high water and hikers should be aware of their abilities before trying any stream crossing.

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          5.

          Summit Trail Shelter

          1 Review
          Ester, Alaska

          The Summit Trail Shelter, constructed in 2003, is a 10'x10' log cabin with 1 bunk bed and a table. The cabin is approximately 8 miles from the Wickersham Dome Trailhead adjacent to the Summit Trail and is generally intended for summer use. The small cabin offers emergency shelter during inclement weather, and is on a first come first serve basis. No fees are charged for its use. Unlike the other White Mountains cabins, it has no woodstove. The Summit trail is open to non-motorized use only. ACTIVITIES Hiking Picnicking Winter Sports Wildlife Viewing Fire Lookouts/cabins Overnight

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            8.

            Table Top Mountain Loop Trail

            1 Review
            Badger, Alaska

            The Table Top Mountain Trail climbs above tree line and passes through a regenerating spruce forest from prior forest fires. The trail tops a large mesa-shaped mountain with a view of the White Mountains before descending back through spruce and birch to the Nome Creek Road.

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              9.

              Quartz Creek Trail

              1 Review
              1 Save
              Badger, Alaska

              Off Highway Vehicle Trail/multi-use trail. This 16 miles developed trail climbs into alpine tundra and passes through white spruce forest valleys. The trail traverses a series of ridge lines with sweeping valley views to end at Quartz Creek. The Quartz Creek trail includes steep grades, rough terrain and several stream crossings. ACTIVITIES Biking Camping Hiking Horseback Riding Hunting Winter Sports Recreational Vehicles Wildlife Viewing Photography

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              Camper-submitted photo from Mount Prindle Campground
              Camper-submitted photo from Mount Prindle Campground

              10.

              Mount Prindle Campground

              1 Review
              2 Photos
              8 Saves
              Badger, Alaska

              The Mount Prindle Campground is one of two campgrounds located at either end of the Nome Creek Valley, on the southern edge of the White Mountains NRA. The campground___s 13 sites, are situated among tall willow shrubs, below expansive alpine tundra meadows and Mount Prindle (5,286 feet), making it the ideal spot to begin a trip into the high country. From here you can enjoy gold panning in Nome Creek or explore the nearby Quartz Creek Trail. Campgrounds are maintained during the summer season (June thru mid-September) and have hand pump wells, trash cans, and outhouse-style toilets. Each campsite has a parking area, picnic tables, and fire rings. Firewood is not provided. The nearest RV dump station is in Fairbanks.

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            Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

            Recent Tent Reviews In Fairbanks

            98 Reviews of 11 Fairbanks Campgrounds


            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Lake Recreation Area
              August 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.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Pioneer Park
              July 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.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Rosehip Campground
              May 29, 2024

              Rosehip Campground

              Beautiful Spot

              This campground is beautiful! Surrounded by birch trees with huge, private spots. This is one of the first campgrounds on the Chena Hot Springs road and it does have service. The only downside was the mosquitos, they were bad.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Tanana Valley Campground
              May 29, 2024

              Tanana Valley Campground

              Camp in Fairbanks

              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. Also, the bathrooms are closed for the season so to take a shower, we had to walk through a dog show in the fairgrounds to get ourselves clean. Laundry is good!

            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Hot Springs Resort
              September 3, 2023

              Chena Hot Springs Resort

              Awesome spot

              Awesome to be able to camp at the resort with easy access to the Hot Springs. Dry camping no amenities except a outdoor bathroom. River behind the spots though, spots close together and close to camping. Level spots but wet from rain. Puddles etc....no internet. You got 10 free minutes by the lodge but then you are prompter to start paying. Did get to see the Northern lights so that was a bonus. Missed the ice museum as it said closed for maintenance on the website and when we got there is appeared you could get in by tours. It was too late by that time.

              Hot springs are nice but it was chaos! Line to get in and the locker rooms are a nightmare. The springs had a lot of people in them but it wasn't terrible and you could still relax.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Tanana Valley Campground
              September 2, 2023

              Tanana Valley Campground

              Convenient campground

              I was concerned when I first looked at reviews when I booked this campground. It seemed to be split 50/50. Some would stay here again and some wouldnt. The KOA resort people probably wouldn't. I feel like you get what you pay for here. It was super convenient to stores/restaurants in Fairbanks.

              The fairgrounds is right next door so I can see that when events take place it could be loud and bring in all sorts of people (could lead to people drinking and stealing). I saw some people mention airport noise with planes flying over, but I didn't notice the noise at all.

              It's a small campground so close to your neighbors but it's in a big town. You are still in the woods. They had firewood available to purchase, a dump station, electric hookups, laundry (cheap - $2 each machine) and showers/bathrooms aren't beautiful but the showers clean and I got a nice lot shower and I hadn't had a good shower in a while! Quick RV wash offs aren't the same as a nice long hot shower. I would stay here again, oh and spot was level :).

            • Camper-submitted photo from Ophir Creek Campground — White Mountains National Recreation Area
              July 12, 2023

              Ophir Creek Campground — White Mountains National Recreation Area

              Beautiful little campground, lightly used

              I stayed there for a couple of weekdays in mid-July, and was had the place largely to myself except for a fairly substantial porcupine that wandered through one morning.  The spots are well-spaced but most of them are pretty shallow, and not suitable for larger rigs or trailers.  I did see one large class C using the group camping area, which is basically a large parking lot with an outhouse and trash bin.  But, because many of the spots aren't great they look like they're not getting a lot of use (overgrown).  Still, the good spots are great and the campground is as tidy and well-kept as we've come to expect from BLM Alaska campgrounds.  Easy creek access!

            • Camper-submitted photo from Tanana Valley Campground
              July 2, 2023

              Tanana Valley Campground

              Eclectic campground.

              Parked a 37 foot trailer in a 30 spot next to the office. Not a quiet campground but it isn’t bad. This was 50 amp spot for $45/night. Restroom/showers not modern but adequate.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Harding Lake State Recreation Area
              May 23, 2023

              Harding Lake State Recreation Area

              Fantastic and Clean Campground, Great for Kids

              Harding Lake State Recreation Area is a shady and scenic site about twenty minutes from North Pole. The lesser-known and elder cousin of the many water-themed state recreation areas that trace the Richardson Highway from Fairbanks to Delta Junction.

              This large and accommodating campground boasts a boat launch into Harding Lake, a baseball field, a large group recreation area near the water, a self-guided nature trail, a trailer dump site, and unpotable bulk water--along with various bathrooms with trash receptacles. 

              Our family of 5 tent camped in May and had a fantastic weekend. 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. A subarctic Field of Dreams. I also hit two first-pitch homeruns off my 9 and 5 year old--which may or not be related to the magic of this field--but I choose to believe.

              The spacious and thoughtfully-designed campground certainly feels beyond its prime--old, unserviceable water pumps (perhaps not yet operable for the season); aspen saplings dotting the baseball infield; and many downed spruces over the nature trail. The posted maps are a little outdated. However, 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.  The camping spots are well-placed along the loop to allow for varying degrees of privacy between sites.

              Mosquitoes are everywhere in springtime Alaska--please let me know when you find a campground in a birch forest without them. That said, 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--but they soon dispersed and only became annoying for intermittent periods. 

              Overall this was a magnificent campground, quiet and clean, with plenty for the kids to do. Fantastic and memorable experience.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Hot Springs Resort
              December 26, 2022

              Chena Hot Springs Resort

              Rustic Cabin Winter Getaway

              We came here a month ago in November for a last minute winter getaway. We rented the Forget-me-Not cabin. 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.

              The cabin itself was very rustic and outdated, but a great size for two couples. The provided toaster caught on fire as soon as we turned it on. We told the front desk and they didn’t seem surprised.

              Obviously the Hot Springs was the main attraction. It was AMAZING! Definitely a must see. Their restaurant was really good too. No cell service, but WIFI in the main lodge.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Hot Springs Resort
              October 12, 2022

              Chena Hot Springs Resort

              Forest Camping + Hot Springs = Heaven!

              Chena Hot Springs offers a full resort experience with hotel rooms, cabins, restaurants, and a host of activities including soaking in the infamous hot pools. It also offers camping with and without electrical hook-ups in either creek side privacy or open lot RV parking. It is a world-famous destination with shuttle buses to and from Fairbanks daily. You will meet people from all over the world. 

              Camping and soaking are charged separately, as are any extra experiences like the Ice Museum (glad I did it, not sure I would again).  Vault toilets, rubbish and recycling bins, and potable water are all available in the campsite, flush toilets and showers are a part of the pool/hot springs facility. Hiking, biking, boating and fishing are all available close by in addition to the experiences offered by the resort. 

              The nearest services for groceries are about 45 miles back down the road toward Fairbanks, or North Pole, AK. 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.  We parked in the main lot for awhile to recharge, then took our rig back into the campground.  Worked well!

            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Hot Springs Resort
              August 12, 2022

              Chena Hot Springs Resort

              Boondocking with plenty to do

              20 a site, dry. There are a few sites that have trees surrounding the sites, offering a bit of privacy. A few sites are open and face the resort and road. Potable water and dump station on grounds. 15 per adult (over 18, per day) to get into the hot springs. Pool and hot tub also available. Hiking trails, fishing in the Beaver Lake, and a tour of the ice castle. Restaurant/bar has great food and all of the workers were congenial. We enjoyed our time and will stay again!

            • Camper-submitted photo from Salcha River State Recreation Site
              August 9, 2022

              Salcha River State Recreation Site

              Earthquake!

              We loved camping here! The river is so pretty and the mountains are beautiful. We were sitting in our van and all of the sudden there was an earthquake! Just a small one but it was kind of exciting. The sunrise was also beautiful over the water. The have restrooms, water pump, and a boat launch as well.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Ski Loop Trail
              July 25, 2022

              Ski Loop Trail

              Not what we thought it would be

              There are grounds across from the trailhead. They’re very average it’s just a big dirt spot. Also the location is off on here you need to driver further. We did this in July and we didn’t have time to hike the trail so maybe the trail makes it better. For us very average.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Pioneer Park
              July 25, 2022

              Pioneer Park

              Just a parking lot

              It’s nice of you need a place to stay. Just a parking lot nothing fancy. We got to play with some puppies people were selling which was nice.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Lake Recreation Area
              July 25, 2022

              Chena Lake Recreation Area

              Last minute getaway

              Very well maintained campground with lots to offer. Staff was courteous and helpful. This campground offers both back in and pull through boondock sites. 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.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Upper Chatanika River State Rec Area
              July 24, 2022

              Upper Chatanika River State Rec Area

              A little crowded but great site

              We drove to the very back and found a spot in the river. A lot of spots had wood stacked at them already and had picnic tables and fire pits. There is a bathroom on site as well. It was the most crowded site we have been to up here yet but the spots offer privacy so it didn’t bother us.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Whitefish Campground
              July 24, 2022

              Whitefish Campground

              Sites right on the river

              This was another one of our favorite spots for camping. We were right on the river and traffic was low. There was two other people there so we had plenty of space. We slept amazing next to the river!

            • Camper-submitted photo from Chena Lake Recreation Area
              July 23, 2022

              Chena Lake Recreation Area

              Lots of birch trees

              We enjoyed this ground. It had a lot of day use areas, plenty of places to sit and look out over the lakes and river. Our spot was shaded and looked beautiful with the sun peaking through. Fairly quiet all night. There are bathrooms near the dam but not on the grounds.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area
              July 23, 2022

              Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

              ATV TRAILS!!

              Olnes pond campground has 1 cabin that you can reserve and pay fee online only. The campsites are FCFS and not reservable. Outhouses are decently placed around the pond. Good spacing between sites and close together sites for groups with multiple families, including spots on the pond edge.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Granite Tors Campground
              July 21, 2022

              Granite Tors Campground

              Very cool spots unique views

              We pulled through here on our way back from Chena. We really liked how the sites opened up to a mountain around the back. Facilities we’re clean and not a lot of road noise.

            • Camper-submitted photo from Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area
              July 20, 2022

              Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

              Pretty views cool wildlife

              We got a spot right on the pond it was so pretty! We saw a beaver and a hawk catch a fish right in front of us which was cool. Grounds are clean and fairly spaced out.



            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

            • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Fairbanks, AK?

              According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Fairbanks, AK is Upper Chatanika River State Rec Area with a 3.7-star rating from 3 reviews.

            • What is the best site to find tent camping near Fairbanks, AK?

              TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Fairbanks, AK, with real photos and reviews from campers.