Camping opportunities near Nenana, Alaska center around the Tanana River, a major waterway that flows through the region at approximately 358 feet above sea level. This interior Alaska location experiences significant seasonal temperature swings, with winter lows reaching -50°F and summer highs occasionally exceeding 90°F. Most campgrounds offer limited seasonal availability from mid-May through September due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Water recreation on the Tanana River: The river flowing through Nenana provides fishing and boating opportunities. Riverside Park in Anderson offers various camping spots including riverside options. According to one camper, "This very Alaskan campground has lots of options. You can camp at the river bed or in some sites with hookups" (Riverside Park - Anderson City Campground).
Visit local museums: Nenana has small museums displaying regional history. A visitor at Nenana RV Park & Campground noted, "The town is small but has a museum with a fun caretaker and is worth a stop."
Community events: Local celebrations occur throughout summer months. For those visiting around holidays, local gatherings can provide entertainment. As one camper mentioned, "This is a small campground in town. The hosts are out standing and the shower house was very clean with a new shower mat provided for each shower."
What campers like
Convenient location: Nenana serves as a strategic stopover point between Fairbanks and Denali National Park. One camper at Tatlanika Trading Company & RV Park commented, "The RV spots are great for 1 or 2 night stays, the store has most of your needs and then some."
Budget-friendly options: Pioneer Park in Fairbanks offers an economical alternative for those willing to drive 40 miles from Nenana. A visitor explained, "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" (Pioneer Park).
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept shower and bathroom facilities. At Tanana Valley Campground in Fairbanks, a camper shared, "Laundry works quickly and effectively. Clean, warm showers and bath. Location close to town, but you feel like your in the forest."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campsites near Nenana operate only during summer months. The typical season runs mid-May through September, with specific opening dates varying by location.
Mosquito preparation: Summer brings significant mosquito activity, particularly in wooded areas and near water sources. Bug repellent is essential equipment for comfortable camping.
Limited services: Some sites offer minimal amenities. One roadside camping area visitor noted, "It is close to the highway but was pretty quiet for sleeping. Good open area so solar and Starlink were happy. Easy to get level. Was a little buggy when we were there" (roadside camping spot).
Weather variability: Even during summer months, temperatures can fluctuate significantly. Nighttime temperatures may drop into the 40s even during July and August.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. A family staying at Waugaman Village RV Park mentioned, "We stayed in camp spot number nine, which was a huge spot and perfect for our 32ft camper truck and three dogs."
Plan for daylight conditions: Summer months bring extended daylight hours which can affect sleep schedules. In June and July, darkness may last only 2-3 hours per night.
Pack appropriate clothing: Temperature fluctuations require layered clothing options for children. Even summer nights can become quite cool.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide recreational activities. One family noted, "We stopped by before the season started but would go back in a heart beat. Small playground. Rustic campsites and RV sites. Bathrooms and showers. Hosts shooting weekends and bluegrass festival."
Tips from RVers
Leveling considerations: Most campgrounds have relatively flat sites, but bringing leveling blocks remains advisable. "Sites are big. Has water and electric hook ups. A dump station. Has washer and dryer. Has showers for a price."
Hookup availability: Electric and water connections vary widely between campgrounds. Rivers Edge RV Park offers full hookups including sewer connections, while others provide only electric or no hookups at all.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds provide dump stations. As one RVer shared, "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."
Site spacing: Some campgrounds have limited space between sites. According to one RVer, "The sites are crammed together. The neighbors sewer pipe right next to your picnic table."
