Chena Lakes Recreation Area

The Interior


This large, lakeside protected area represents the last phase of an Army Corps of Engineers flood-control project prompted by the Chena River’s flooding of Fairbanks in 1967.

Two separate parks make up the space, offering nature paths, paved trails and swimming, plus boat rentals ($10 per hour). Three campground loops provide access to about 80 sites. Note that the entrance to the recreation area is 2 miles off the Richardson Hwy – follow the signs after you exit.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby The Interior attractions

1. Santa Claus House

3.71 MILES

If you love your roadside kitsch, and/or the corniest elements of the Christmas holiday, head into this sprawling barn-like store off Richardson Hwy…

4. Golden Heart Plaza

16.03 MILES

This square is meant to serve as a natural nexus point for downtown activity in Fairbanks. Within the riverside square, you'll see a clock tower, winter…

5. Doyon Buidling

16.11 MILES

The corporate headquarters for the Native-owned Doyon company has a lobby filled with indigenous art and artifacts. The 24-hour security guards on duty…

6. Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum

16.56 MILES

For a state with so few highways, this is a surprisingly comprehensive collection of 70 working antique vehicles, highlighting the evolution of the…

8. Pioneer Air Transportation Museum

17.32 MILES

Only open in summer, this museum is full of olden planes and aviation history, with an obvious focus on the field as practiced in the Alaskan interior and…