Overview
Tanana Valley Campground is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Alaska’s interior, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and solitude. Located near the town of Fairbanks, this campground provides easy access to the stunning Tanana River and surrounding wilderness. The campground’s setting, surrounded by towering spruce trees and rolling hills, makes it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. One of the unique features of Tanana Valley Campground is its proximity to the University of Alaska Fairbanks’ Geophysical Institute, which offers stunning views of the aurora borealis during the summer months.
The scenery at Tanana Valley Campground is characterized by vast expanses of boreal forest, punctuated by sparkling lakes and winding rivers. The campground itself is situated on a bluff overlooking the Tanana River, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. With its remote location and limited development, Tanana Valley Campground offers a true wilderness experience, complete with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities and unparalleled stargazing.
Location & Directions
To reach Tanana Valley Campground, take the Steese Highway (AK-2) from Fairbanks, and turn left at mile marker 35.5. The campground is located at GPS coordinates 64.8633, -147.6333. From the highway, follow the dirt road for approximately 5 miles, taking a left turn at the signed campground entrance. The road to the campground is generally well-maintained, but can be rough in places, especially after heavy rainfall. Be sure to check the current road conditions before embarking on your journey.
Driving from Fairbanks, the nearest city, take the Steese Highway (AK-2) north for approximately 35 miles. Turn left at mile marker 35.5, and follow the signs to the campground. The drive should take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on road conditions. Keep in mind that cell phone reception can be spotty in this area, so it’s a good idea to download maps and directions before leaving Fairbanks.
Campground Details
Tanana Valley Campground has a total of 45 campsites, including 20 RV sites, 15 tent sites, and 10 walk-in sites. RV sites have electrical hookups, while tent and walk-in sites do not. The maximum RV length is 40 feet, and there are no dump stations or potable water fill-ups available. The current fee for camping is $20 per night, with a maximum stay of 14 days. Reservations can be made through reserve.gov, but be aware that the campground often fills up quickly during peak season.
Check-in time is 2 pm, and check-out time is 12 pm. The campground is open from May 15th to September 15th, weather permitting. Be sure to check the official website for up-to-date information on campground availability and regulations. It’s also a good idea to bring cash, as credit card machines may not always be available.
- Number of sites: 45
- Site types: RV, tent, walk-in
- Hookups available: electrical
- Max RV length: 40 feet
- Fees: $20 per night
- Reservation info: reserve.gov
- Check-in/check-out times: 2 pm/12 pm
- Season open dates: May 15th – September 15th
Facilities & Amenities
Tanana Valley Campground offers a range of facilities and amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. Potable water is available at the campground, and there are both flush and vault toilets. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table, and bear boxes are provided to store food and other attractants. There is also a boat launch available for those looking to explore the Tanana River.
A dump station is located near the campground entrance, and firewood is available for purchase from the campground host. Be sure to follow all regulations regarding campfires, as they can be restricted during periods of high fire danger. The campground also has a day-use area with picnic tables and a scenic overlook, perfect for taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Water: potable
- Restrooms: flush and vault
- Fire rings: yes
- Picnic tables: yes
- Bear boxes: yes
- Boat launch: yes
- Dump station: yes
- Firewood availability: yes
Boat Launch and Fishing Access
The boat launch at Tanana Valley Campground provides easy access to the Tanana River, which is renowned for its excellent fishing. The river is home to a variety of fish species, including salmon, trout, and grayling. Be sure to follow all regulations regarding fishing, and obtain any necessary permits before heading out on the water.
Hiking & Activities Nearby
Tanana Valley Campground is surrounded by a range of hiking trails, offering something for every skill level and interest. The nearby Chena River State Recreation Area has over 30 miles of trails, ranging from easy day hikes to more challenging multi-day backpacking trips. The Angel Rocks Trail is a popular destination, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and access to scenic overlooks.
In addition to hiking, the area around Tanana Valley Campground offers a range of other outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and berry picking. The Tanana River is home to a variety of fish species, and the surrounding hills are filled with wild berries, including blueberries, raspberries, and salmonberries. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with frequent sightings of moose, bears, and eagles.
- Nearby trails: Chena River State Recreation Area, Angel Rocks Trail
- Fishing spots: Tanana River, nearby lakes and streams
- Boating: Tanana River, nearby lakes
- Berry picking: wild blueberries, raspberries, salmonberries
- Wildlife viewing: moose, bears, eagles
Fishing Opportunities
The Tanana River and surrounding lakes and streams offer excellent fishing opportunities, with a range of species available, including salmon, trout, and grayling. The best techniques for fishing in the area include spin casting, fly fishing, and trolling. Be sure to follow all regulations regarding fishing, including obtaining any necessary permits and adhering to catch limits.
The nearby Chena River is also renowned for its fishing, with a range of species available, including salmon, trout, and char. The Salcha River is another popular destination, offering excellent fishing for grayling and trout. Regardless of where you choose to fish, be sure to practice catch-and-release fishing to help conserve the area’s fish populations.
- Species: salmon, trout, grayling
- Rivers/lakes: Tanana River, Chena River, Salcha River, nearby lakes and streams
- Regulations: obtain necessary permits, adhere to catch limits
- Best techniques: spin casting, fly fishing, trolling
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tanana Valley Campground is during the summer months, from May to September. This period offers warm weather, long days, and excellent outdoor recreation opportunities. However, be aware that the peak tourist season is from June to August, and the campground can be busy during this time. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in May or September, when the weather is still pleasant and the campground is less crowded.
Keep in mind that the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon to experience rain, wind, and cooler temperatures, even during the summer months. Be sure to pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and warm hat, to ensure you’re prepared for any conditions. Mosquito season typically runs from June to August, so be sure to bring insect repellent and take necessary precautions to avoid bites.
- Season dates: May – September
- Peak times: June – August
- Weather patterns: warm, long days, potential rain and wind
- Mosquito season: June – August
Wildlife & Bear Safety
Tanana Valley Campground is located in an area with a high concentration of wildlife, including bears, moose, and eagles. It’s essential to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety, including storing food and other attractants in bear boxes, keeping a clean campsite, and making noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals.
Bears, including black bears and grizzly bears, are common in the area, and it’s essential to be prepared. Make sure to carry bear spray, and know how to use it properly. If you encounter a bear, remain calm, and follow established protocols, including giving the bear a clear path to leave and avoiding direct eye contact.
- Bears: black bears, grizzly bears
- Moose: common in the area, be aware of your surroundings
- Eagles: common in the area, be aware of your surroundings
- Proper food storage: use bear boxes, keep a clean campsite
- Bear spray: carry with you, know how to use it properly
- What to do in encounters: remain calm, give the bear a clear path to leave, avoid direct eye contact
What to Bring
When planning your trip to Tanana Valley Campground, it’s essential to bring the right gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Be sure to pack layers, including a waterproof jacket and warm hat, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable. Insect repellent is also a must, as mosquito season can be intense during the summer months.
A portable stove or camping grill is necessary for cooking, and don’t forget to bring plenty of water and non-perishable food. A first aid kit, bear spray, and a map and compass or GPS device are also essential items to include in your packing list. If you plan to fish or boat, be sure to bring the necessary gear, including a fishing license and life jacket.
- Essential gear: layers, waterproof jacket, warm hat, insect repellent, portable stove or camping grill, water, non-perishable food
- First aid kit: include essentials, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers
- Bear spray: carry with you, know how to use it properly
- Map and compass or GPS device: necessary for navigation
- Fishing gear: fishing license, rod and reel, bait, life jacket
- Boating gear: life jacket, paddle or oars, anchor
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The nearest town to Tanana Valley Campground is Fairbanks, which is located approximately 35 miles away. Fairbanks offers a range of amenities, including grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations. The University of Alaska Fairbanks is also located in Fairbanks, and offers a range of attractions, including the Geophysical Institute and the University of Alaska Museum of the North.
Other campgrounds in the area include the Chena River State Recreation Area and the Salcha River Campground. Both of these campgrounds offer excellent outdoor recreation opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and boating. Day trip ideas include visiting the Chena Hot Springs Resort, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs.
- Nearest town: Fairbanks
- Distance to Fairbanks: 35 miles
- Amenities in Fairbanks: grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations
- Attractions in Fairbanks: University of Alaska Fairbanks, Geophysical Institute, University of Alaska Museum of the North
- Other campgrounds: Chena River State Recreation Area, Salcha River Campground
- Day trip ideas: Chena Hot Springs Resort, dog sledding, aurora viewing
Tips from Experienced Campers
Experienced campers recommend choosing a campsite with a scenic view, such as those located near the river or with a view of the surrounding hills. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot, as the campground can fill up quickly during peak season.
Insider tips include bringing a portable stove or camping grill, as the campground’s cooking facilities can be limited. It’s also a good idea to bring a bear spray and know how to use it properly, as bears are common in the area. Cell service can be spotty, so be sure to download maps and directions before leaving Fairbanks.
Noise considerations are also important, as the campground is located in a quiet, natural area. Be respectful of other campers and keep noise levels down, especially after 10 pm. Finally, be sure to take in the stunning sunrises and sunsets, which can be truly breathtaking in this beautiful Alaska landscape.
- Best campsites: scenic views, near the river or with a view of the surrounding hills
- Arrival time: arrive early to secure a spot
- Insider tips: bring a portable stove or camping grill, bear spray, know how to use it properly
- Cell service: spotty, download maps and directions before leaving Fairbanks
- Noise considerations: keep noise levels down, especially after 10 pm
- Sunrise/sunset recommendations: take in the stunning views, truly breathtaking in this beautiful Alaska landscape