Chena River State Recreation Area
All three campgrounds (Rosehip, Granite Tors, and Red Squirrel) are open as of May 22, 2026. Campgrounds are first-come first-served with no advance reservations. 15-day camping limit applies. Quiet hours 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Special Weather Statement issued June 9 at 3:36PM AKDT by NWS Fairbanks AK
Tonight will come with another chance for frost in the Interior. Specifically in low lying river valleys and typical cold spots as temperatures approach the low to mid 30s between 2AM and 9AM. While frost is not guaranteed, precautions should be made to protect any sensitive vegetation. Sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered.
About
Chena River State Recreation Area lies twenty-six miles east of Fairbanks and encompasses more than 254,000 acres of rolling hills, boreal forest, and river valleys characteristic of Interior Alaska. The Chena River winds through the area, providing excellent fishing and paddling opportunities. Three developed campgrounds serve the recreation area along Chena Hot Springs Road. Rosehip Campground at mile 27 offers 37 campsites, a boat launch, walk-in group camping, and rentable picnic shelters. Granite Tors Trail Campground at mile 39 has 24 sites and serves as the trailhead for the popular 15-mile loop to the granite tor rock formations. Red Squirrel Campground at mile 43 provides 5 sites with picnic shelters and ADA-accessible facilities. The area is renowned for the Granite Tors Trail, which climbs through spruce forest into alpine tundra where dramatic granite spires tower above the landscape. Wildlife viewing opportunities include moose, beaver, and numerous bird species. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmachining, and ice fishing at the Mile-48 hut.
Directions
From Fairbanks, take the Steese Highway north to Chena Hot Springs Road and turn east. Rosehip Campground is at mile 27, Granite Tors Trail Campground at mile 39, and Red Squirrel Campground at mile 43.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | — |
| Price | $20 - $250 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 37ft |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | Yes |
| Pull Through Sites | Yes |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (907) 451-2695 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!