State Park in the Alaskan Wilderness

The Alaskan outdoors is one of the state's major draws, and many people find themselves visiting or moving to the state to experience the wilderness and beauty of the outdoors. Thos looking for a true Alaskan outdoor experience will not be disappointed when they visit the Chena River Recreation Area in Fairbanks. Located 26 miles east of the town of Fairbanks, the park sits in the hills of the Chena Valley. It includes over 250,000 acres of the area, stretching from the valley upward to the tops of the ridges, all along the Chena River. There are cabins in the area that allow for slightly less rustic camping, and each of the cabins includes sleeping platforms, shelves, a table and benches, a kitchen counter, and an outdoor latrine, as well as a wood stove, and a propane lantern. Each cabin features a saw, an ax, a broom, and a fire extinguisher. Those planning to light a fire should gather wood as they hike to the cabin. These cabins offer shelter, if not too many luxury amenities, and shelter is a must when camping in Alaska. Temperatures range from as high as 80 degrees during the summer to 40 below during the winter. Activities in the area include hiking, berry picking, boating, fishing, horseback riding, and trails for all-terrain vehicle riding. During the winter visitors can enjoy trapping, snowmobiling, dog mushing, and cross-country skiing. If you are in the area in search of wildlife, you will surely see a wide variety. Typical sightings include eagles, moose, beavers, porcupine, and black bear. Grizzlies have been seen but are typically further into the back-country area, away from the campsites.