Birch Lake Boat Launch

The feel

Birch Lake is a popular stocked lake about 60 road miles south of Fairbanks, just off the Richardson Highway. The boat launch is a developed one with a courtesy dock. Stocked species include rainbow trout, king and silver salmon, grayling, Arctic char and northern pike.

In summer the lake is popular for camping, swimming, fishing, jet skiing and water skiing. In winter the site rents five day-use ice huts that anglers can reserve.

What to expect

Water and access

Stocked lake off the Richardson Highway at mile 303.5. The boat launch is .3 miles from the highway turn-off, with a courtesy dock.

Species and timing

Rainbow trout, king and silver salmon, grayling, Arctic char and northern pike are stocked. Fishing in the open water months is best from a boat.

Crowds and best time

Popular in summer for camping, swimming, jet skiing and water skiing as well as fishing.

Season and access

Open water in summer; five day-use ice huts can be reserved in winter. The access road is not plowed in winter and needs a 4-wheel-drive vehicle.

Mingo says

Take a boat out on the lake for the best fishing. Come in winter for the ice huts, but only with four-wheel drive.

Before you go

• Reserve a day-use ice hut ahead if you plan a winter trip; the site rents five.
• Bring a 4-wheel-drive vehicle in winter, since the access road is not plowed.
• Drive .3 miles from the Richardson Highway turn-off to reach the launch.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.