17 miles east of Fairbanks. The US. Army Corps of Engineers and the Fairbanks North Star Borough are partners in the development and management of recreation facilities in the 2,178 acre park. The major features of the park are Chena Lake, a 259 acre rehabilitated barrow pit whose bays, peninsulas and islands give it a natural appearance, and the Chena River, one of the largest clear water streams in Interior Alaska.
The recreation area is managed as two units, the Lake Park and the River Park. Each has two campground loops, 86 campsites, some pull throughs for RV’s, with water, bathrooms, dump station. Handicap accessible Each park also has a boat launch ramp and extensive picnic areas, which include covered pavilions. Chena Lake also has a designated swimming area and boat dock. There are two changing rooms/warm-up huts at the swim beach and one at the River Park. Volleyball courts, basketball court and a children’s playground are available. There is also a nature trail along the river.
Chena Lake is stocked with silver salmon, rainbow trout and Arctic Char. The Chena River harbors grayling, northern pike, whitefish and burbot.
Directions from Fairbanks: Head south on Richardson Hwy (14 miles from Mitchell Expressway). Exit at Dawson St. Turn left, under Richardson Hwy. Right on Mistletoe Dr. Left on Laurance Rd. Go 3.5 miles to the entrance of Chena Lake Recreation Area.
Directions from Eielson: North on the Richardson Hwy. Turn Right at Laurance Road.
