Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area
00 review3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska, 99709, United States
Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area
$15.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
About this campground
Discover 400 acres of pristine Alaskan wilderness at Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area, where adventure awaits at every turn. This expansive natural playground encompasses the popular Olnes Pond and Whitefish campgrounds, offering endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, paddling across serene ponds, exploring scenic hiking trails, or gazing up at the spectacular northern night sky, Lower Chatanika delivers an authentic Alaska experience that will leave you breathless.
Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area offers a mix of public-use cabins and campsites for visitors.
Historical SignificanceWhile the specific historical narratives of this area await discovery by curious visitors, the land itself tells the timeless story of Alaska's wild heart, where generations have come to connect with nature's raw beauty.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Lower Chatanika, where nature puts on a spectacular show year-round. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures plunging to a bracing -8.03°F during the coldest weeks, creating perfect conditions for ice fishing and aurora viewing. As summer arrives, the area comes alive with warmth and endless daylight, with temperatures climbing to a comfortable 71.51°F by midsummer. The ever-changing sky offers its own drama, with crystal-clear conditions ranging from cozy 14% clarity during moody weeks to stunning 70% clarity that reveals the full majesty of Alaska's big sky.
ElevationThe gentle terrain of Lower Chatanika invites explorers of all skill levels to immerse themselves in Alaska's natural splendor, with accessible trails and waterways perfect for family adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryThe meandering Chatanika River serves as the lifeblood of this stunning recreation area, creating a ribbon of life through the Alaskan landscape. Along its banks, wild berries ripen in summer sunshine, offering sweet rewards for observant hikers. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the diverse avian population that calls these waters home, while winter transforms the river into a frozen highway perfect for ice fishing adventures.
Geological RegionNestled in Alaska's magnificent Northern region, Lower Chatanika showcases the diverse beauty of interior Alaska's ecosystem. The Chatanika River carves its ancient path through this landscape, creating a rich tapestry of habitats that support everything from summer berry patches bursting with wild fruit to winter ice fishing spots teeming with Arctic char. This ecological wonderland offers birders exceptional viewing opportunities, with the river corridor serving as a vital flyway for both resident and migratory species.
Campsite details
Sites SizeMaximum equipment length is 35 feet per site.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo specific site recommendations provided.
Best CampsitesSingle site named '128 - Olnes Pond Cabin' listed.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay information not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum guests per site: 4
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDetails about loops or sections are not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonNo specific information provided about open or closed seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservation platforms are not specifically mentioned in the source.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not described explicitly in the source.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details are not provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area offers diverse recreational opportunities. Activities include camping, fishing, hiking, berry picking, boating/floating, ATV/snowmachining, ice fishing, dog sledding, night sky viewing, and cross-country skiing.
Hiking
Hiking is supported with various trails accessible within the recreation area.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with access to the Chatanika River that winds through the recreation area.Biking
Biking and mountain biking activities are supported within the facility.Boating
Boating and floating are supported, with access to the Chatanika River and a boat launch available.Wildlife viewing
Birding and other wildlife viewing opportunities are listed as available activities for visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing, dog sledding, snowmachining, and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Kayaking is listed as an available water sport within the facilities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire policies are not explicitly stated.
- Quiet hours are from 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include frigid temperatures during winter and variable snowfall.
Active alertsActive alerts such as closures or construction are not mentioned.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Fairbanks is likely to have emergency services such as hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations, but specific facilities are not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates are not explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash services are available within the campground.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near the Chatanika River, providing access for various water activities.
Common complaintsSpecific complaints are not noted in the source.
HostNo information about campground hosts is provided.
Campground Map
3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, Alaska, 99709, United States
Driving directionsFrom the George Parks Hwy, this turns into the Robert Mitchell Expy, exit Steese Hwy, this will turn into the New Steese Hwy. Stay on Steese, this will turn into the Elliott Hwy. Located at milepost 11 of the Elliott Hwy. From the Richardson Hwy, exit Steese Hwy, this will turn into the New Steese Hwy. Stay on Steese, this will turn into the Elliott Hwy. Located at milepost 11 of the Elliott Hwy.
The campground is accessed via the Elliott Highway, a paved road at milepost 11. However, no additional information is provided about seasonal access, road conditions, or specific challenges.Nearby places
Fairbanks (exact distance and travel time to Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area are not stated).
Nearby supplies
Fairbanks, as the nearest major city, would likely have groceries, camping supplies, and fuel available. Specific stores or facilities are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
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0 reviews
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Last updated August 10, 2025