Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area

Open — Open year-round. Reservations available through ReserveAmerica up to seven months in advance.

About

Lower Chatanika State Recreation Area is a 400-acre recreation site located at mile 11 of the Elliott Highway, approximately 24 miles north of Fairbanks. The area encompasses two developed campgrounds: Olnes Pond Campground and Whitefish Campground. The Chatanika River winds through the recreation area, making it a popular destination for both summer and winter activities. Olnes Pond Campground features access to a 16-acre pond stocked with rainbow trout and arctic grayling. Whitefish Campground, situated on the north side of the Chatanika River Bridge, offers 25 campsites, a picnic shelter, and a boat launch. The boat launch provides access for floating the Chatanika River and serves as the primary take-out point for paddlers who begin at Upper Chatanika State Recreation Site on the Steese Highway. The recreation area offers year-round activities. Summer visitors enjoy camping, fishing, hiking, berry picking, and boating. The area is popular with hunters accessing Minto Flats via the river. Winter transforms the area into a hub for ice fishing, dog sledding, snowmachining, and cross-country skiing on designated trails. The remote location also provides excellent opportunities for night sky viewing away from Fairbanks light pollution.

Directions

From Fairbanks, take the Steese Highway which becomes the Elliott Highway. The recreation area is located at milepost 11 of the Elliott Highway.

Nearby Campgrounds