Harding Lake State Recreation Area

Open — Open year-round. The park operates on a 15-day camping limit. Reservations available up to 7 months in advance through ReserveAmerica.

About

Harding Lake State Recreation Area, established in 1967, is one of the longest standing facilities in the Alaska State Park system. Situated 45 miles south of Fairbanks at Mile 321.4 on the Richardson Highway, this 325-acre park provides comprehensive camping and recreation opportunities along Harding Lake in Alaska's Interior. The park features over 90 campsites dispersed throughout a scenic spruce and birch forest. The main campground contains 78 vehicle sites and five walk-in group campsites, with many sites large enough to accommodate big rigs with no RV length restrictions. Additional camping options include weekday camping for self-contained units at the lakefront day use area, the Camp Lot area with space for up to 10 units, and the game field parking lot which can accommodate 12 units. Each campsite includes a fire ring and picnic table, with a limit of six people and two vehicles per site. Harding Lake spans 2,470 acres with depths reaching 142 feet, offering excellent fishing for lake trout, arctic char, and burbot. A boat launch with a straight canal leading to the lake center provides access for canoes, motorized boats, and jet skis. The park also features hiking trails, two picnic shelters, and designated areas for baseball, volleyball, and horseshoes. All facilities include accessible toilets and water, with a dump station available for campers.

Directions

Located at Mile 321.4 Richardson Highway, approximately 40 miles south of Fairbanks. From Fairbanks, take the Richardson Highway south, turn left onto Harding Drive, then right onto Coolidge Street and follow to the campground.

Nearby Campgrounds