Fort Wainwright, located in central Alaska near Fairbanks, sits at an elevation of 446 feet and experiences temperature extremes from -66°F in winter to 99°F in summer. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-September, with some rv parks Fort Wainwright, Alaska offering limited winter access. Most campgrounds in the area feature birch forests providing natural shade and privacy between sites.
What to do
Water activities at Chena Lake: The recreation area offers paddle board and boat rentals during summer months with a designated swimming area. "There is a bunch of trails to hike around, paved biking trails, a basketball court, volleyball courts and of course a playground. There are some really cool camping spots along the river as well," notes a visitor to Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Historic exploration at Pioneer Park: This unique attraction combines camping with immediate access to Fairbanks history exhibits and food vendors. "The park is like an old time amusement park without rides. It is really cool though. There is a Salmon Bake restaurant that seems very popular," according to a camper at Pioneer Park.
Hot springs visit: Many campers use area campgrounds as a base for day trips to Chena Hot Springs, about an hour's drive away. "For two days, we used this site as a base camp to venture out to hiking (Angels Rock) and to Chena Hot Springs, which is about an hour away. Both are worth it," reports a visitor to River Park Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Several campgrounds offer sites directly along the Chena River with fishing access. "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 a camper at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground.
Wooded privacy: Many campers appreciate the natural separation between sites. "We were delighted how this campground (in a city) feels like wilderness. The camp sites aren't right on top of each other and there is foliage around," notes a reviewer at River Park Campground.
Convenient laundry facilities: After days of outdoor activities, on-site laundry becomes essential. "Laundry works quickly and effectively. Clean, warm showers and bath. Location close to town, but you feel like your in the forest," mentions a camper at Tanana Valley Campground.
What you should know
Water quality varies: Some campgrounds have natural well water with coloration. "For water, there are several pumps that you have operate yourself, but our only issue with it was the color of the water, which comes out a little yellow/orange," reports a camper at River Park Campground.
Mosquito preparation essential: Summer months bring significant mosquito activity. "I'm not sure if we planned the trip around the largest mosquito outbreak ever but this is the first time I wanted a head net! The bugs were terrible but the campsite wonderful," warns a visitor at River Park Campground.
Limited winter facilities: While some camping areas remain accessible year-round, amenities are reduced. "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," notes a winter camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The campground offers both back in and pull through boondock sites. All the sites are spacious a decent distance from neighbors. Sites are a short drive to the swim beach," notes a visitor at Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Mini-golf and activities: Some rv parks near Fort Wainwright include recreational amenities. "Campsite was clean and easily accessible. My kids enjoyed the park across the road and had mini golf and a Rhoades car available for use. Showers and bathroom and laundry nice and close," mentions a family at Nenana RV Park & Campground.
Beach areas: Look for campgrounds with designated swimming zones. "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," recommends a family camper at Chena Lake.
Tips from RVers
Special routing instructions: Some campgrounds have specific entry procedures for larger rigs. "This site has special routing instructions—staff had us drive a few hundred yards down Old Badger Road, which runs adjacent to the CG, to enter through the back KOA gate. From there, it was an easy approach into our site," explains an RVer at Fairbanks / Chena River KOA.
Connectivity considerations: Internet and cell service can be limited. "On arrival, the CG WiFi was unusable, but we got an email update that they were working on it. A later speed test showed 4.97 Mbps download—good enough for email and light browsing. Starlink worked but was slower than usual in this area despite a clear sky view."
Dump station locations: Not all rv parks Fort Wainwright offer on-site sewer hookups. "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," notes a helpful RVer staying at Pioneer Park.
