Camping options near Fort Wainwright offer year-round access despite Interior Alaska's climate extremes, with winter temperatures frequently dropping below -20°F and summer highs reaching 80°F. The surrounding landscape features boreal forest dominated by black spruce, white spruce, and birch trees along multiple river systems. Campsites experience approximately 22 hours of daylight during summer solstice and nearly complete darkness during winter months.
What to do
Paddle the Chena River: Chena River recreation areas provide direct water access for fishing and kayaking. At Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, campers can find private river spots for water activities. "When we first got here we were the only ones parked on a Thursday morning. We chose spot number 4 which has a private river access for fishing/viewing. We found a path through the woods that lead to a clean rocky water area the kids spent hours in," reports one visitor.
ATV trail riding: Several campgrounds connect to extensive off-road trail systems. At Olnes Pond within Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, visitors note the vehicle-friendly setup. "Olnes pond campground has 1 cabin that you can reserve and pay fee online only. Good spacing between sites and close together sites for groups with multiple families, including spots on the pond edge."
Winter camping: Year-round sites remain open at select locations when most facilities close after September. "Visited in March 2022. Pioneer park is really just a parking lot. No bathrooms, electricity, or reservations. They keep it plowed in the winter so we stopped here for a night. There's a McDonald's literally a block away you can use for restrooms and morning coffee/breakfast," notes one winter camper.
What campers like
Riverside camping access: Waterfront sites rank among the most requested spots. At Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground, sites along the Chena River offer prime views. "The river spots are a little extra a night but well worth it. With full hook ups, and RV wash, shower facilities, and a gift shop this is a great place to RV," explains one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe native animals. At Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, pond-side campers report interesting wildlife encounters. "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."
Recreational amenities: Facilities beyond basic camping draw many visitors. At Chena Lake Recreation Area, the beach area provides additional activities. "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. There is a bunch of trails to hike around, paved biking trails, a basketball court, volleyball courts and of course a playground."
What you should know
Seasonal availability restrictions: Most campgrounds operate limited schedules. "We stayed here for 2 nights free and paid for 3 nights over memorial weekend. Clean campground with pull through sites. Great playground for kids, and lake with tons of activities 4 minute walk away," notes a Chena Lake camper about the opening weekend availability.
Variable facility maintenance: Infrastructure conditions can change significantly throughout the season. At Tanana Valley Campground, one visitor explained seasonal differences: "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."
Urban camping options: Several locations provide camping with city access. "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," reported one visitor about Pioneer Park, which offers basic RV parking in town for $12 per night with a 5-day stay limit.
Tips for camping with families
Beach activities: Swimming areas provide safe water recreation. "We stayed here for 2 nights free and paid for 3 nights over memorial weekend. Clean campground with pull through sites. Great playground for kids, and lake with tons of activities 4 minute walk away," notes a visitor about family amenities at Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Playground access: Several campgrounds maintain dedicated play areas. "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," reports a Chena Lake camper.
Wildlife education opportunities: Children can observe Alaska's native animals from safe distances. "We saw a beaver and a hawk catch a fish right in front of us which was cool," explains a family visiting Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area. Many campgrounds maintain interpretive signs identifying local wildlife and plants.
Tips from RVers
Urban convenience camping: Some locations provide bare-bones parking with town access. "Pioneer park is really just a parking lot. No bathrooms, electricity, or reservations... There's a McDonald's literally a block away you can use for restrooms and morning coffee/breakfast," notes one RV traveler about Pioneer Park.
Full-service options: Several RV parks provide complete hookup access. At Fairbanks / Chena River KOA, formerly Riverview RV Park, facilities match standard KOA amenities. "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. Really nice view of the Chena River."
Site selection considerations: Choosing the right location within campgrounds matters. "I was concerned when I first looked at reviews when I booked this campground. It seemed to be split 50/50... 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," reports a Tanana Valley Campground visitor.
