Camping options near North Pole, Alaska include several established campgrounds within driving distance of this interior Alaskan town. Located about 14 miles southeast of Fairbanks, North Pole maintains winter temperatures averaging -15°F, while summer days can reach 70°F with nearly 24 hours of daylight during peak season. Rain is minimal in this subarctic climate zone, receiving only about 10 inches of precipitation annually.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: Chena Hot Springs Resort offers camping with easy access to natural mineral hot springs. "Awesome to be able to camp at the resort with easy access to the Hot Springs. Dry camping no amenities except a outdoor bathroom. River behind the spots though," writes Kristi D., noting that despite crowds, "you could still relax."
Hiking trails: Multiple hiking options surround the camping areas. Shari G. mentions at Chena Hot Springs Resort: "Hiking, biking, boating and fishing are all available close by in addition to the experiences offered by the resort."
Aurora viewing: Winter camping provides opportunities to see the Northern Lights. Jill T. reports: "The aurora is spectacular and I would love to go back for a trip in the summer."
What campers like
Convenient location: Tanana Valley Campground offers proximity to urban amenities. According to Kristi D., "It was super convenient to stores/restaurants in Fairbanks... You are still in the woods."
Budget-friendly options: Campers appreciate affordable rates at local sites. Bradee A. notes about Tanana Valley: "Electric at site, water and dump stations. Bathrooms & laundry and for 1/2 the price of everywhere around. But bring bug dope!"
Creek-side privacy: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options. At Chena Hot Springs Resort, M P. reports: "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."
What you should know
Limited equestrian facilities: Horse campgrounds near North Pole, Alaska are scarce. Campers seeking accommodations for horses should call ahead to verify facilities.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Tanana Valley operates from May 15 to September 15, with Erica C. warning: "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."
Cell service: Connectivity varies widely. Tanya B. reports about Chena Hot Springs Resort: "Cell Service: no, Internet: no," while noting Tanana Valley has both cell service and internet.
Grocery access: Supplies require planning. According to Shari G., "The nearest services for groceries are about 45 miles back down the road toward Fairbanks, or North Pole, AK."
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions: Not all activities accommodate children. Tanya B. cautions: "Kids cannot go in the hot springs. 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."
Alternative activities: Children can enjoy other amenities. Chena Hot Springs offers "Pool and hot tub also available. Hiking trails, fishing in the Beaver Lake, and a tour of the ice castle," according to M P.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds host events. At Tanana Valley Campground, Tanya B. notes: "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
Site selection: Choose your site carefully. At Tanana Valley, Erica C. advises: "Don't book site 28 or 27 as you will end up camping in a parking lot."
Size accommodation: Some sites can fit larger rigs. Aaron B. reports: "Parked a 37 foot trailer in a 30 spot next to the office."
Power management: Solar power can be challenging. At Chena Hot Springs Resort, Shari G. suggests: "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. Worked well!"
Dump stations: Plan for waste disposal. M P. confirms: "Potable water and dump station on grounds," at Chena Hot Springs, which helps when planning extended stays.
