Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park

For Alaskans, a great campground isn't just a place to park an RV or pitch a tent; it's a gateway to adventure, a comfortable respite, and often, a community of fellow explorers. Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park in Fairbanks perfectly embodies this spirit, offering a friendly and well-maintained basecamp for both short stops and longer stays in the heart of Interior Alaska. Nestled in a private, wooded area just minutes from downtown Fairbanks, it provides the ideal balance of natural tranquility and convenient access to city amenities.

What truly sets Tanana Valley Campground apart is the warm hospitality extended by its owners, Matt and Laurie. As one glowing review attests, guests are "warmly welcomed upon arrival and guided to our spot," with Matt and Laurie diligently working to "maintain the grounds and care for their guests." This personal touch ensures a safe and comfortable environment, making even late arrivals feel cared for. With a range of site options, including both electric and non-electric spots surrounded by "multitudes of gorgeous trees" for privacy, Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park caters to diverse camping preferences. Whether you're passing through on your way to Denali, exploring the unique attractions of Fairbanks, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat close to civilization, this campground provides a reliable and welcoming haven for all Alaskan adventurers.

Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park is conveniently located at 1800 College Rd Suite #1, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA. This prime location places it just a short drive—less than ten minutes—from the heart of downtown Fairbanks, Alaska's second-largest city. This proximity is a significant advantage for campers, allowing easy access to city attractions, dining, shopping, and essential services while still providing a forested, natural setting.

The campground's address on College Road ensures straightforward accessibility from major routes in Fairbanks. For those arriving by RV or car, navigating to the campground is typically simple, with clear directions available from various parts of the city. You can reach the campground by heading east on 8th Ave, turning onto Cushman St or Noble St, and then onto College Rd. While some specific turns may involve "restricted usage road" sections, these are generally minor and well-marked.

Beyond private vehicles, the campground's location also offers access to public transportation options. It is conveniently situated near the Tanana Valley State Fairgrounds and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center. From the latter, guests can even take Denali shuttle buses to various attractions within Fairbanks and to other destinations across Alaska and the Arctic. This makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider region without always needing to drive your own rig. The campground operates seasonally, with its summer season typically running from May 22nd through September 15th, making it a key destination during Alaska's prime travel months. Its ease of access and central location in Fairbanks make it a practical and desirable choice for both local and visiting campers.

• Diverse Campsite Options: Tanana Valley Campground offers a variety of camping areas, including both electric (30 and 50 amp) and non-electric sites, catering to both RVs and tents. There are 40 sites in a private wooded area, ensuring privacy.

• Essential Site Amenities: Each campsite includes a fire pit (available upon request) and a picnic table (also available upon request), allowing for traditional camping experiences and outdoor meals.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: The campground provides restrooms with showers, which are included in the price of the stay. Reviews highlight them as "nice and clean," with one camper appreciating a "nice long hot shower."

• Coin-Operated Laundry Facilities: For the convenience of campers, especially those on longer journeys, coin-operated laundry machines are available on-site. There's even an ATM in the laundry room.

• Dump Station and Fresh Water: An RV dump station is available for guests to empty their tanks, and fresh water is also accessible for refilling. Generators can be run from 8 am to 9 pm.

• Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary internet access with Wi-Fi is provided, allowing campers to stay connected, though one review noted it can be "poor Wi-Fi" at times.

• Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome at the campground, provided they are kept on a leash, making it suitable for those traveling with furry companions.

• Firewood Available: Firewood is available for purchase on-site, adding convenience for those wishing to enjoy campfires.

• Affordable Rates: The campground is generally considered affordable, with rates varying by site type (e.g., non-electric, 30 amp, 50 amp, double RV sites). Rates typically include four people per site, with an additional charge per extra person.

• Reservations and Check-in/Check-out: Reservations can be made online in advance, with an office operating from 10 am to 6 pm daily during the season (May 22nd to September 15th, 2025). Check-in is at 1 pm, and check-out is at 11 am.

• Convenient Fairbanks Location: Situated less than ten minutes from downtown Fairbanks, the campground offers easy access to major city attractions, restaurants, shopping, and the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center.

• Wooded and Private Sites: Despite being close to the city, the campground boasts 40 sites set within a "private wooded area" surrounded by "multitudes of gorgeous trees," providing a sense of seclusion and tranquility.

• Friendly and Helpful Staff: Numerous reviews highlight the exceptional hospitality of the owners, Matt and Laurie, who are described as "warmly welcomed," "helpful and friendly," and "diligently working to maintain the grounds and care for their guests." This personal touch greatly enhances the camping experience.

• Accessibility to Outdoor Activities: Expansive hiking and biking trails are accessible directly from the campground, ranging from paved paths to wooded trails, offering an up-close look at Alaska's natural beauty.

• Proximity to Local Attractions: The campground is adjacent to the Tanana Valley State Fairgrounds, which can be a lively spot during events (though potentially noisy, as one review noted). It's also "just down the road" from Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge, perfect for an easy nature stroll and bird watching.

• Essential Amenities for Travelers: The availability of showers (included in price), coin-operated laundry, a dump station, and fresh water makes it particularly suitable for longer stays and RV travelers exploring Alaska.

• Safe and Secure Environment: Guests have expressed feeling "very safe" during their stay, which is a significant factor, especially for those new to the area or traveling alone.

• Flexible Site Types: Offering both electric and non-electric, as well as tent and RV sites (including 30 and 50 amp hookups), the campground accommodates a wide range of camping preferences and rig sizes (up to 40 ft length for tent sites, RV sites vary).

Address: 1800 College Rd Suite #1, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA

For inquiries, reservations, or any assistance regarding your stay at Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park, you can contact them directly using the following information:

Phone: (907) 251-8571

Website: tananavalleycampgroundandrv.com (recommended for online reservations and up-to-date information)

Email: reservations@tananavalleycampgroundandrv.com

During their operating season (typically May 22nd through September 15th, 2025), office hours are generally 10 am to 6 pm daily. If calling outside of these hours, it is advisable to leave a voicemail message with your name and phone number, as the office phone may not be answered between 6 pm and 10 am. They generally do not accept text messages, so voicemail or email are the preferred methods for after-hours communication. Given their popularity, especially during the peak Alaskan summer, making reservations in advance, particularly online, is highly recommended to secure your preferred site.

For Alaskans, Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park in Fairbanks offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and genuine hospitality, making it an ideal base for exploring their vast and incredible state. While visitors from "outside" often seek deep wilderness, Alaskans frequently appreciate a well-equipped, friendly spot that serves as a launchpad for local adventures or a comfortable stop during longer journeys across the state.

The campground's location is a significant draw for locals. Being just minutes from downtown Fairbanks means easy access to supplies, repairs, dining, and the essential services of a major Alaskan city. This convenience allows Alaskans to resupply, get their rig serviced, or enjoy a city meal before heading out to more remote areas or after returning from a backcountry excursion. The proximity to the Tanana Valley State Fairgrounds and Creamer's Field Migratory Waterfowl Refuge also offers easily accessible local activities, perfect for a relaxing day without extensive travel.

The welcoming and diligent nature of owners Matt and Laurie, as highlighted by numerous reviews, resonates strongly with the community-focused spirit often found in Alaska. Knowing you'll be greeted warmly and that staff are actively maintaining the grounds and caring for guests creates a sense of safety and comfort that is particularly valued when traveling within the vast Alaskan wilderness. The availability of essential amenities like clean showers, laundry facilities (even if a dryer upgrade is "much needed" as one review noted), dump stations, and diverse hookup options makes it a practical choice for Alaskans on extended road trips or those utilizing their RVs as mobile homes for seasonal work or recreation.

Furthermore, the wooded sites provide that touch of nature and privacy that Alaskans cherish, even within city limits. It allows for campfires and outdoor relaxation, fulfilling the desire for an authentic Alaskan camping experience without sacrificing convenience. For any Alaskan looking for a reliable, friendly, and well-located campground in the Interior, Tanana Valley Campground and RV Park stands out as a prime choice, offering the ideal blend of comfort and adventure for local exploration.