Chena Lakes Recreation Area

The feel

The park covers 2,178 acres east of North Pole and splits into a Lake Park and a River Park. At the Lake Park, a 259 acre lake has a sand swimming beach, two pavilions, a boat rental station and a handicap accessible fishing dock. Only non-motorized boats are allowed, so you paddle kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards and pedal-boats.

The lake is stocked every year with rainbow trout, silver salmon and Arctic char. In winter the same ground turns to skiing, snowshoeing, snow-machining, ice fishing and aurora viewing.

What to expect

What it is

A borough recreation area with a lake, a swim beach, boat rentals, camping and winter trails.

Crowds and best time

Quiet time is 10:00pm. The area is staffed Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Parking

The entrance road is paved.

Fees and passes

Day use and camping fees apply. Fees are not charged in winter.

Dogs

Pets must be on leash.

Hazards

Bear activity is always a possibility at the edge of the wilderness.

Bathrooms and water

The campgrounds have potable water and restrooms.

Season and access

Open year round at 3780 Laurance Road, North Pole. In summer the swim beach and day use areas close nightly from 10:00pm to 6:00am. Camping runs from May to September.

Mingo says

Come in summer for the beach and boats, or in winter for skiing and aurora viewing. In winter the campgrounds and picnic areas are not maintained.

Before you go

• Call (907) 488-1655 for park questions.
• Call the boat rental hut at (907) 590-8552; it rents until 9:00pm in summer.
• Camping is limited to five consecutive nights, and this is a no-alcohol park.
• Plan to be off the beach and out of day use areas by 10:00pm in summer.

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