Camping areas surrounding North Pole, Alaska offer diverse options for campers at elevations averaging 450 feet above sea level in the Tanana Valley. The region experiences wide temperature variations, from summer highs in the 70s to winter lows well below zero. Most camping facilities near North Pole maintain gravel pads for RVs and designated areas for tents, with variable accessibility depending on seasonal conditions.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campsites near North Pole provide access to wildlife habitats. At Chena Lake Recreation Area, campers report seeing tadpoles in abundance. As Riley N. notes, "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."
Water recreation: The lakes and rivers around North Pole offer swimming, boating, and fishing. Riverview RV Park provides direct river access. "The sites have enough space between for slide outs, but still a little tight. Really nice view of the Chena River," mentions Megan B., who appreciated the waterfront location.
Trail exploration: Many camping locations feature trail networks for hiking and biking. "There is a bunch of trails to hike around, paved biking trails, a basketball court, volleyball courts and of course a playground," explains Kela W. about the recreational amenities at Chena Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate spaces that offer some separation from neighbors. At River Park Campground, visitors enjoy the natural setting. Anna C. describes it as "wonderful. There are a variety of campsites, some large enough to accommodate an RV, as well as well-maintained restrooms, well-water, a dumpster, and every site had a picnic table and fire pit with grate."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained campgrounds consistently receive positive mentions. Chris D. reports that Chena Lake is a "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."
Birch forests: The distinctive woodland setting adds character to many camping spots. "Our spot was shaded and looked beautiful with the sun peaking through," shares Riley N. about Chena Lake Recreation Area, adding that the grounds feature "lots of birch trees."
What you should know
Mosquito preparation: Summer brings significant mosquito activity, especially near water. At River Park Campground, Samantha M. warns, "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."
Water quality concerns: Some facilities may have water issues. At Eielson AFB Bear Lake, MickandKarla W. observed "signs on the bathhouse and laundry facility that the water was bad due to too much chlorine." They also noted that "on most sites you would need to cut brush and low-hanging limbs."
Seasonal timing: Most facilities operate from May to September with variable opening dates. Tanana Valley Campground typically runs from "May 15 to Sep 15" according to site information. A visitor noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas for children. At Tanana Valley Campground, families appreciate the convenient location. As Bradee A. notes, it offers "Electric at site, water and dump stations. Bathrooms & laundry and for 1/2 the price of everywhere around. But bring bug dope!"
Beach activities: Waterfront camping options include swimming areas suitable for families. Bradee A. mentions that Chena Lake has a "Great playground for kids, and lake with tons of activities 4 minute walk away."
Festival awareness: Check local events calendars when booking. Tanya B. shares about Tanana Valley: "When in Fairbanks this is my families go to spot. There is often stuff going on here so be prepared for music. When we were here in July the Rodeo was going on so there was loud music the whole day."
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Most sites require minimal leveling but conditions vary. At Pioneer Park, Kevin H. found "Level parking lot, access to Pioneer Park" and noted it was "Great location. Level. Water available."
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds offer sanitary dump facilities. For Tanana Valley Campground, campers mention "electric at site, water and dump stations." At Pioneer Park, Kerry B. advises: "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 selection strategy: Choose sites based on your specific needs and priorities. MickandKarla W. caution about Eielson AFB Bear Lake: "There are pull-through sites on one row that could handle big rigs and then back-in sites of various lengths on another row. These sites are water and electric 50 and 30 AMP."
