Chena River Lakes
RV Guide
Introduction
Ready for your next great outdoor adventure? Plan a family RV stay at Chena River Lakes. It's an amazing place to enjoy the best of rural living in the heart of Alaska.
Chena River Lakes consist of several different tributaries which flow from the Tanana River, a body of water found within a central portion of the state. The property encompasses two parks with one located on each side of the river. The river's trajectory takes it past the White Mountains to the west and flows directly into the mouth of the Tanana River which is situated near the premier city of Fairbanks, AK.
The most popular park which centers around this system of lakes and rivers is the Chena River Lakes Recreation Area which encompasses the upper half of these bodies of water. The waters here enjoy great popularity as bountiful fishing holes and are also considered a recreational haven for those who enjoy water sports and boating. When the lakes are frozen in the winter months, they are often used by mushers.
The Lake Park and the River Park were created simultaneously with the construction of a dam to address flooding from the Chena River Floods in 1967. With two parks to choose from, there are many different locations for RV campers looking for a place to park their rig for a holiday stay. Both parks offer an abundance of amenities and attractions for families to enjoy. Open year-round for RV and tent camping, visitors to this park will not want for fun things to do regardless of the timing of their visit.
For a great time at a camping facility that feels like a little slice of paradise, you won't want to miss out on a trip to Chena River Lakes. It is a fantastic place for a relaxing holiday.
RV Rentals in Chena River Lakes
Transportation
Driving
Chena River Lakes is located just 17 miles from Alaska's premier city of Fairbanks. The most direct route to the two campgrounds is via Richardson Highway, a well-maintained road with stretches of both two and four lanes. The journey to these parks proceeds smoothly on highways that are kept clear year-round. Wildlife is occasionally seen on the roads, so it is wise to exercise caution when traveling to avoid a collision. Road construction does occur from time to time but is relatively infrequent.
Parking
With two parks to choose from, there are several parking lots where you can safely leave your vehicle while you venture out for a day of fun at Chena River Lakes. You will find a public lot at the entrance to both the Lake Park and the River Park.
Public Transportation
Due to its remote location, there is no public transportation available to the parks and campsites. There are seven tent sites which are accessible by private boat only.
Campgrounds and parking in Chena River Lakes
Campsites in Chena River Lakes
First-come first-served
Chena River Lakes Campground
Chena River Lakes Campground is divided into two distinct parks, each with their own campground. All sites at both camping facilities are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Lake Park is home to 45 sites for RV and tent camping with 11 of them pull-throughs. This park offers two swimming areas with sand beaches, two fishing docks, a boat launch, picnic sites, change rooms/warm-up buildings, a playground, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, water stations, and bathrooms. Generator use is permitted, and pets are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times.
The River Park is slightly smaller at only 35 campsites with ten pull-throughs. There are also seven tent campsites here that are accessible only by private boat. This camping facility offers waterfront views with many of the sites located along a 4 mile stretch of the Chena River Lakes.
The River Park offers a pavilion, a 4.5-mile nature trail, picnic areas, a beach, change/warm-up rooms, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, drinking water, a boat launch, and bathrooms. Generator use is also allowed here, and the same rules apply for pets.
It is important to note that camping is restricted to a maximum of five consecutive days or ten spread out over a period of 30 days.
The most popular activities at Chena River Lakes include biking, boating, fishing, hiking, picnicking, winter sports, water sports, and wildlife viewing.
Seasonal activities in Chena River Lakes
Off-Season
Photography
If you'd love the opportunity to train your lens on some breathtakingly beautiful scenery, you will be thrilled with the sights you will discover at Chena River Lakes. Bring along your camera and don your best pair of walking shoes and set off in search of the perfect photo op. You won't be disappointed!
There is lots to see at these two incredibly picturesque parks. From hilly terrain to verdant green forests and gently flowing rivers, you will have a hard time deciding where to start!
Both of these parks are also home to a large variety of diverse plant and animal life. Be sure to snap some photos of the unusual plants and creatures you will find along your journey.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound at Chena River Lakes. One of the most popular paths is the 4.5 km Chena River Lakes Trail. This route is particularly attractive for hikers in the late summer and early fall when the area is blanketed with blueberries, cranberries, and raspberries that are ripe for the picking.
The terrain encountered along this self-guided nature trail is quite diverse. The trail is considered moderate in intensity but is lengthy for less experienced hikers. Bring along your camera to capture some photos of the sights you will discover.
Be sure to wear appropriate shoes for hiking and to dress in layers in case of cold weather which can occur during the offseason. You will also need to bring along lots of drinking water and a packed lunch or some treats to enjoy along your journey.
Fishing
The set of tributary rivers which run into the greater Tanana River near Fairbanks, AK, are world-renowned for their excellent fishing opportunities. The waters teem with many different species of fish including such varieties as Arctic grayling, burbot, chum salmon, humpback whitefish, king salmon, least cisco, longnose suckers, northern pike, round whitefish, and sheefish.
The Tanana River enjoys notoriety as the body of water designated the most popular sport-fishing river within the interior portion of the state. You can fish directly from the shore, from one of the docks, or from the comfort of your boat.
In-Season
Picnicking
With several picnic spots to choose from, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to the selection the perfect locale for you and your family to enjoy a packed lunch from home during your visit to Chena River Lakes. Select a spot on the banks of the river or meander over to the lakeside for an entirely different view. Either way, you will be treated to incredible scenery that is worthy of recording on film.
Each of the parks offers picnic areas which feature tables and fire rings. There are also several covered pavilions which are available for rent for larger groups.
Boating
The tributaries flowing from the Tanana River into the system known as the Chena River Lakes are popular spots for families who enjoy doing some recreational boating. The Lake Park and the River Park are home to boat launches and docks where you can launch your watercraft into the river and head off in search of your next great maritime adventure.
Fancy a day out on the river but don't own any water sports equipment or a boat? Not to worry, Chena River Lakes has several kiosks where you can rent pedal boats, rowboats, canoes, kayaks, or stand up paddleboards to enjoy.
No day on the water is complete without drinks and snacks, so be sure to bring lots along with you. Sunscreen is also a good idea to avoid a painful burn.
Swimming
Chena River Lakes is an excellent spot for families looking to enjoy some swimming. Both the Lake Park and the River Park offer several swimming areas with lifeguard service (in season) and sand beaches. Take a dip in the refreshing lake waters or work on mastering your doggy paddle or breaststroke.
After your day of swimming fun, you can recline in the sand with a good book or peruse the shoreline in search of seaside treasures to take home as a memento of a fantastic vacation in Alaska.
Your dog may join you at the beach but must remain leashed.
Be sure to pack drinking water, sunscreen, and lots of snacks for your day of beach fun.
