Glamping near North Pole, Alaska centers around thermal springs, waterfront locations, and forest settings where temperatures range from 70°F in summer to -40°F in winter. The Interior Alaska region sits at approximately 500 feet elevation with dense birch and spruce forests surrounding campgrounds. Most glamping options stay open year-round despite the extreme seasonal temperature variations.
What to do
Hiking trails: Within Chena River State Recreation Area, visitors can explore wooded paths through white birch forests. "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," notes Jared T.
Water activities: At Harding Lake State Recreation Area, summer visitors can rent watercraft directly at the lake. "There's a water toys rental by the boat launch that offers paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddle boards $25/2 hours or $35 for all day. They are only open Friday-Sunday or by appointment," reports Samantha M.
Winter activities: Beyond thermal soaking, winter glamping offers unique experiences like aurora viewing. "The aurora is spectacular and I would love to go back for a trip in the summer," writes Jill T., highlighting the year-round appeal of upscale camping in this region.
What campers like
Private campsites: Salcha River State Recreation Site offers sites with natural screening. "The river is so pretty and the mountains are beautiful. We were sitting in our van and all of the sudden there was an earthquake! Just a small one but it was kind of exciting. The sunrise was also beautiful over the water," shares Riley N.
Resort amenities: The full-service nature of some glamping locations appeals to those wanting comfort with wilderness access. "We camped in the primitive area, which was lovely, forested and right along the creek, but the opportunity for solar power collection was limited by the trees, so plan ahead. We parked in the main lot for awhile to recharge, then took our rig back into the campground," explains Shari G.
Recreation facilities: Some glamping sites include unexpected amenities beyond typical campground features. "The sandlot-reminiscent baseball field was a rare and magical find that suited our family's wiffleball addiction perfectly. It's like wandering through a moss grove and emerging into a boreal baseball field," describes Andrew V.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter glamping requires preparation for extreme cold. "We came here a month ago in November for a last minute winter getaway. We rented the Forget-me-Not cabin. It's a dry cabin with an outhouse, but it does have electricity and a DVD player. Just make sure you bring your own DVDs if you plan to use it," advises Samantha F.
Mosquito preparation: Summer visitors should pack appropriate repellent. "The mosquitoes were unbearable outside and in 73 degree weather you needed to be completely covered," warns one camper about their experience.
Water quality: Some campgrounds have specific water issues to consider. "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," notes Dave G.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming: River Park Campground offers water access specifically designed for children. "This campground had a roped off beach area where people played, lounged, kayak/canoe and spent all day. If we came again I would bring more beach appropriate items," suggests Samantha M.
Wildlife viewing: Children can observe small animals and aquatic life safely. "The kids thought it was fun to watch the many tadpoles!" mentions one parent about their camping experience.
Activity planning: Some glamping sites have age restrictions for certain activities. "If your main reason for visiting is the Hot Springs, then closer to the resort is best. If you are traveling with children, they can go in the swimming pools but not the hot springs themselves which is really why we all go here," explains Tanya B.
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Chena Hot Springs Resort camping areas have size considerations. "Dry camping no amenities except a outdoor bathroom. River behind the spots though, spots close together and close to camping. Level spots but wet from rain," reports Kristi D.
Utilities planning: RVers should understand service limitations when glamping in this region. "$20 a site, dry. There are a few sites that have trees surrounding the sites, offering a bit of privacy. A few sites are open and face the resort and road. Potable water and dump station on grounds," advises M P.
Supplies access: Plan your provisions carefully before setting up at remote glamping sites. "The nearest services for groceries are about 45 miles back down the road toward Fairbanks, or North Pole, AK," notes one camper regarding resupply options.
