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Best Campgrounds near North Pole, AK

111 Reviews

Camping areas near North Pole, Alaska include a mix of developed campgrounds and recreational sites primarily clustered along the Chena River and nearby lakes. The Chena Lake Recreation Area provides spacious sites for both tent and RV camping with pull-through options and picnic tables. Fairbanks North Star Borough maintains several campgrounds within a 30-minute drive of North Pole, including recreational sites on the Chena River. Military facilities like Eielson AFB Bear Lake and Fort Wainwright's Glass Park RV Park offer additional options for eligible personnel. Most campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of hookups and amenities.

Most developed campgrounds in the North Pole region operate seasonally from May through September, with limited winter accessibility. Temperatures and ground conditions greatly affect camping experiences. As one camper noted, "We stayed here for 2 nights free and paid for 3 nights over memorial weekend. Clean campground with pull through sites." Reservations are recommended for popular campgrounds, especially during holiday weekends and summer festivals. Several campgrounds provide water and electric hookups, while others offer more primitive experiences. Cell service is generally available near North Pole but may become limited at campgrounds farther from town. Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, particularly in wooded and waterfront areas.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the North Pole area. The Chena River State Recreation Area receives consistently positive reviews for its natural setting and water access. A review from The Dyrt highlighted that "The location that we were at was so peaceful and serene. We enjoyed cooking out. The location is very convenient." Many mixed-use campgrounds provide both recreational amenities and natural experiences. Families particularly appreciate campgrounds with swimming areas, playgrounds, and walking trails. Several reviews mention the birch forests as a distinctive feature of camping in this region. While some campgrounds offer full facilities with showers and flush toilets, others maintain a more rustic atmosphere with vault toilets and hand-pump water systems. The proximity to both wilderness and urban amenities makes North Pole a practical base camp for exploring interior Alaska.

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Best Camping Sites Near North Pole, Alaska (44)

    1. Chena Lake Recreation Area

    10 Reviews
    North Pole, AK
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 459-1070

    $15 - $50 / night

    "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."

    "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."

    2. River Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Badger, AK
    6 miles
    Website

    "Wonderful campground if you are looking to get away from town but still in close proximity. Well maintained camping area, with options to camp on an island in the middle of the lake."

    "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."

    3. Fairbanks / Chena River KOA

    4 Reviews
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 488-6392

    $50 - $80 / night

    "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."

    "For once in a long time on our journey through Alaska, the campground (CG) was not right off the highway."

    4. Tanana Valley Campground

    8 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 456-7956

    "Location close to town, but you feel like your in the forest. I got great Service!"

    "The cost is not back and you have all the things you need within driving distance."

    5. Pioneer Park

    6 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 459-1087

    "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. It is really cool though."

    "The water spigot is on the south side of lot near the turn in. The trash cans can get full quick. "

    6. Eielson AFB Bear Lake

    2 Reviews
    Eielson AFB, AK
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 377-1232

    7. Military Park Fort Wainwright Chena Cove Campground

    2 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 388-0642

    "Loved the location"

    8. Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground

    6 Reviews
    Fairbanks, AK
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 474-0286

    "Located right along the Chena River this RV Resort has a gift shop for when you need a candy fix or warmer swearer and the availability to book direct for Riverboat Discovery, historic Fairbanks tour,"

    "Cell Service: yes Internet: yes 2020 Cost: $64.95-$34.95 Distance from Anchorage: 365 miles Best sites: Along the River Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 5"

    9. Why Knot Sleep Here

    1 Review
    Fort Wainwright, AK
    10 miles

    $40 / night

    10. Military Park Fort Wainwright Glass Park RV Park & Outdoor Adventure

    1 Review
    Fairbanks, AK
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (907) 388-0642

    "Great rates loved the location"

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Recent Camping Photos near North Pole, AK

17 Photos of 44 North Pole Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near North Pole, AK

111 Reviews of 44 North Pole Campgrounds

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 13, 2025

    Eielson AFB Bear Lake

    Seen Better Days

    While staying in North Pole, AK, we decided to check out Eielson AFB Bear Lake FamCamp as we’d heard from other military RVers and on different forums that the campground was not worth staying at. On the major RV review sites the most recent review was from 2023. We normally don’t post reviews on a campground (CG) we didn’t stay at, but made an exception to help other military RVers out. As we entered the campground, we noticed that there were not many campers (there was what looked like a camp host, but no sign), and could immediately see why. The sites had non-potable per signs attached to the water spigot. We also noticed that many of the sites were grown over. 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). However, on most sites you would need to cut brush and low-hanging limbs. There were signs on the bathhouse and laundry facility that the water was bad due to too much chlorine. They do have a dump station. There’s a lake at the end of the CG area, but the grass again was so high it was up through the picnic tables along the shoreline. Based on the CG’s condition and distance from the sights to see in the Fairbanks area, this in our opinion is not a good CG choice, especially with taller 5th wheels or Class A rigs. Fort Wainwright, which is closer to Fairbanks, has Glass Park RV Campground on post and they have sites that should fit bigger rigs according to the site sizes on their webpage.

  • Janet P.
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground

    Awful place

    The sites are crammed together. The neighbors sewer pipe right next to your picnic table. Lots not mowed. Had to walk through weeds. Staff very unfriendly. I would rather stay at walmart.

  • MickandKarla W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 7, 2025

    Fairbanks / Chena River KOA

    One of the Best KOAs We've Stayed

    For once in a long time on our journey through Alaska, the campground (CG) was not right off the highway. We followed our RV GPS to the Badger Road exit and found the CG tucked back from the main road. Check-in was busy but quick. We were assigned pull-through site 133D with full hookups and 50 AMP. 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. Site 133D is a KOA Patio site with a deluxe Trex deck, outdoor furniture, propane fire pit, and a Weber propane grill with tools. The gravel pad was long enough for our 40’ toy hauler and F450, with room to put down our rear patio. 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. We got one bar on both Verizon and T-Mobile. This is a well-run KOA, with staff constantly mowing, cleaning, and maintaining the grounds. During our stay, several RV caravans came through—they had their own designated area and even buses for tours. The CG has spaces for all types of campers, from tents to big rigs. There’s a laundry facility, two fenced dog parks, swing benches by the river, and plenty of space to walk your dog. All in all, this is one of the best private CGs we’ve stayed at. If you need a great vet while in the area, we highly recommend Dr. Dawn Brown at North Pole Veterinary Hospital. They are an AAHA accredited clinic and we’ sure all the vets are great, but we definitely had a wonderful experience with Dr. Brown during our appointment with our two Braque's. The CG made an excellent base for exploring the Fairbanks area.

  • S
    Jun. 30, 2025

    Tanana Valley Campground

    Friendly and very helpful park staff

    Great location and very friendly staff.

  • James B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 10, 2025

    roadside camping spot

    Stay while waiting for appt in Fairbanks

    Waiting on an appointment in Fairbanks. Drove out of the city and found this place. 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. Good spot to kill some time and relax outside Fairbanks

  • Wes F.
    Aug. 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.

  • Kevin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Pioneer Park

    Level parking lot, access to Pioneer Park

    Great location. Level. Water available. Stopped to restock after Denali visit. Pioneer Park also has some food vendors - had me done tacos

    Next to fairly busy road - quietens down overnight, but not completely

    5 day limit

  • K
    Jul. 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.

Guide to North Pole

Camping near North Pole, Alaska, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and anyone looking to escape into nature.

What to do:

  • Explore the outdoors: The area is perfect for hiking and fishing. Campers at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area enjoyed the beautiful views and wildlife, with one reviewer noting, "We saw a beaver and a hawk catch a fish right in front of us which was cool."
  • Water activities: Many campgrounds, like Harding Lake State Recreation Area, offer swimming and boating. A visitor shared, "There was a fun water area for the children. There were about 70-80 site options, nice walking/bike trails, picnic areas, fire rings."
  • Wildlife watching: Campers often spot moose and other wildlife. One reviewer at Rosehip Campground mentioned, "We have seen wolves in this river spot which was quite scary but an experience all the same."

What campers like:

  • Spacious sites: Many campgrounds provide ample space between sites. A camper at Chena Lake Recreation Area appreciated the "huge pull-through campsite" that allowed room for their dogs.
  • Clean facilities: Campers often comment on the cleanliness of the restrooms and grounds. One visitor at Tanana Valley Campground said, "The showers were clean and I got a nice long hot shower."
  • Friendly staff: Many reviews highlight the helpfulness of campground staff. A camper at River Park Campground noted, "Staff was courteous and helpful."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Be prepared for bugs, especially in spring and summer. One camper at Harding Lake State Recreation Area warned, "The mosquitoes were unbearable outside."
  • Limited amenities at some sites: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or showers. A visitor at Pioneer Park mentioned, "It’s nice if you need a place to stay. Just a parking lot, nothing fancy."
  • Seasonal access: Some campgrounds are only open during specific months. For example, River Park Campground is open from June 10 to August 10.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring bug spray: Mosquitoes can be a problem, so pack plenty of repellant. A family at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area found that "the kids spent hours in the clean rocky water area."
  • Plan for activities: Choose campgrounds with amenities like playgrounds or water access. One reviewer at Tanana Valley Campground mentioned, "The playground and bike/walking trails were great."
  • Check for family-friendly features: Look for campgrounds that offer group sites or spacious areas. A camper at Chena Lake Recreation Area noted, "All the sites are spacious a decent distance from neighbors."

Tips from RVers:

  • Reserve in advance: Some campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground advised, "It is always worth it to reserve your site online before you get there."
  • Check site sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site dimensions. One RVer at Tanana Valley Campground mentioned, "Parked a 37-foot trailer in a 30 spot next to the office."
  • Utilize amenities: Look for campgrounds with laundry and shower facilities. A camper at Rivers Edge RV Park & Campground appreciated the "on-site laundry and showers."

Camping near North Pole, Alaska, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to prepare for the bugs and check the amenities at each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there lake access at North Pole Campground?

While there isn't a specific 'North Pole Campground,' several nearby camping options offer excellent lake access. Harding Lake State Recreation Area is located about twenty minutes from North Pole and provides scenic lake access in a shady setting. Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area features Olnes Pond, which is stocked with fish and offers beautiful surroundings. For those staying in the North Pole area, these locations provide convenient water recreation opportunities.

What amenities are available at North Pole Campground?

While there isn't a specific 'North Pole Campground,' nearby camping options offer various amenities. Chena Lake Recreation Area provides extensive recreational facilities including a beach area with grassy and sandy sections, hiking and paved biking trails, basketball and volleyball courts, and a playground. Chena Hot Springs Resort offers camping with and without electrical hookups, plus resort amenities like hot pools, restaurants, and various activities. Most campgrounds in the area provide basic facilities like restrooms and water access.

Where is North Pole Campground located?

North Pole is a city near Fairbanks in Alaska, about 14 miles southeast of downtown Fairbanks. While there isn't a specific 'North Pole Campground,' several camping options are available in the area. Fairbanks / Chena River KOA is located near North Pole, accessible via the Badger Road exit and tucked away from the main road. Another option is Eielson AFB Bear Lake, which is situated in the North Pole area and serves as a military FamCamp.

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