Lake with Single Dock In Mountains

Chena Lake Vacation Rentals

Chena Lake

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Chena Lake
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Why Rent On Chena Lake

Chena Lake is located within the Chena Lake Recreation Area. It offers an abundance of activities including camping, boating, fishing, swimming, running, hiking, walking, and nature watching. During the winter, Chena Lake attracts snowmachiners, skate skiers, skijors, and dog mushers.

The Chena Lake Recreation Area offers a campground with 45 campsites and two sandy beaches. It also has a boat rental facility that rents paddle boats, row boats, canoes, and kayaks. Anglers will enjoy the two fishing docks and boat launch. Bring the kids along to play on the playground, three volleyball courts, and horseshoe pit.

Best time to go
Visit Chena Lake in late June to early August for endless daylight and the gentle whisper of summer breezes. Experience tranquil kayaking, abundant fishing, and vibrant wildflowers—where nature thrives and crowds fade. Embrace the serenity beneath the midnight sun.
Water Quality
Chena Lake's waters exhibit a deep blue hue, reflecting the surrounding Alaskan landscape. The lake's clarity is crystal-clear, offering pristine views of the submerged environment.
Surface area (mi)
65.55
Max depth (ft)
38
Elevation (ft)
495.41

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Jet Skiing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Chena Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are restrictions and safety guidelines for swimming in Chena Lake. You must swim only in designated areas due to extremely cold water conditions, and there are no lifeguards on duty. Swimming immediately after meals or becoming over-exerted is also discouraged.

  • Chena Lake is a popular destination because it offers multiple outdoor activities. It provides opportunities for ice fishing, aurora viewing, walking, and photography, with facilities like campgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming beach. The area also includes nature trails and boat launches, making it a versatile spot for various interests.

  • When fishing in the Chena River and its tributaries in Alaska, you can use only one unbaited, single hook, artificial lure or fly. For species other than salmon, an artificial lure with a single treble hook with a gap larger than ½ inch is also allowed. Bait can only be used on a single hook with a gap larger than ¾ inch.

  • The designated swimming areas with sandy beaches at Chena Lake Recreation Area are best for families. These areas are safely enclosed, have large beaches, and are great fun for kids with activities like swimming and canoeing nearby.

  • Towns near Chena Hot Springs, not Chena Lake specifically, include Fairbanks, College, and North Pole. These towns are located in Alaska’s Interior region, with Fairbanks being the closest major city about 60 miles west of Chena Hot Springs. Chena Hot Springs is accessible via the Steese Highway and Chena Hot Springs Road.