BLM Camping

Mount Prindle Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Left largely in their natural state, BLM lands, which are public lands, are excellent ways for visitors to get to know an area. Visitors to BLM sites can often hike, kayak, mountain bike, snowshoe, view wildlife, or swim. At some places, such as the Mount Prindle Campground, camping is also available. To find BLM sites with different amenities, search for “BLM camping near me.”

The Mount Prindle Campground is located outside of Fairbanks in the Nome Creek Valley and is one of two campgrounds in the valley area. Named for nearby Mount Prindle, which stands over 5,200 feet tall, the campground has thirteen sites that are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and parking area. The campground is maintained from June through mid-September, and visitors have access to hand pump wells, outhouse-style toilets, and trash cans.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Quartz Creek Trail

Located within walking distance of the Mount Prindle Campground, Quartz Creek Trail meanders through white spruce forests, valleys, and alpine tundra areas.

Length: 16 miles

Intensity: Hard

Angel Rocks Trail

Located in the nearby Chena River State Recreation Area, this trail offers gorgeous views of the surrounding landscape.

Length: 3.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Chena River Nature Trail

This trail meanders along the river and offers beautiful views no matter what season it is.

Length: 2.6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Boreal Forest and Seasonal Wetland Trail

Located in the Creamers Field State Game Refuge, this trail is a great way to take in the scenery and spot native wildlife.

Length: 2.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Ester Dome Inner Loop

This trail is beautiful at any time of year but is a favorite for hikers during the autumn months when the fall foliage is at its peak.

Length: 2.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Fishing and Boating

Some of the best fishing in the region is available at the Chena River State Recreation Area. Anglers who fish the Chena River can often catch Arctic grayling, rainbow trout, Dolly Varden, and, when they’re in season, both silver and king salmon. The Birch Lake Recreation also offers excellent grayling, salmon, trout, and char fishing.

Climbing

Climbing enthusiasts can choose from several different locations around Fairbanks, including the Grapefruit Rocks, which offers a number of challenging routes. Most climbs on these rocks are top-rope climbs, but the area also offers traditional and sport routes as well as some bouldering. The Angel Creek Rocks are another excellent option, offering fifteen total traditional and top-rope climbs.

Wildlife Viewing

Visitors to the Mount Prindle Campground can spot wildlife from the nearby Quartz Creek Trail or head to the Creamers Field State Game Refuge. There are also several nearby state recreation areas, such as the Chena River State Recreation Area, that offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Native species include moose, caribou, foxes, lynx, black bears, beavers, and wolves. You can also spot bird species that include eagles, geese, swans, and falcons.

Picnicking

One of the best places to picnic in the Fairbanks area is at Tanana Lakes Recreation Area. The area has covered picnic areas with tables, and there's easy access to a wide range of recreational activities all year long. Graehl Park is also a great picnic location and has a playground, picnic tables, and a free boat launch. It offers beautiful views of the Chena River.

Snowshoeing and Cross-country Skiing

Winter activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are common in the areas around Fairbanks. Visitors can choose almost any of the many trails in the area to use for exploring in the snow.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

Anyone looking for BLM RV camping near the Mount Prindle Campground can take advantage of several options. You can use the campground itself, although both space and amenities are limited. Tanana Valley Campground & RV Park offers electrical hookups, a dump station, water, a laundry area, and both fire pits and picnic tables.

Free Camping

Visitors to the area around the Mount Prindle Campground who are looking for Bureau of Land Management free camping can stop at 48 Mile Pond, where many visitors set up dispersed sites. There are several sites, each with a fire pit and picnic table. Vault toilets are also available.

RV Rentals Near Mount Prindle Campground Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Mount Prindle Campground BLM trip

Summers in Fairbanks and the area around the Mount Prindle Campground are usually relatively mild, with temperatures in the high sixties and low seventies. Temperatures between October and April, however, can be incredibly cold, so always dress warmly and be prepared for extreme weather.

The area around the Mount Prindle Campground is home to several large animal species. Even moose or caribou can be dangerous when provoked or spooked, so always observe animals quietly and maintain a safe distance. Never approach a wild animal, and always stay alert to your surroundings.

Most BLM campgrounds, including the Mount Prindle Campground, don’t take reservations, so double-check before you leave to ensure that there’s enough space. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, day-use areas, and all other natural sites deserve respect and care. Leave No Trace guidelines help campers and hikers minimize their impact on the landscape around them. While you’re enjoying your stay, clean up after yourself and always throw away any trash. If there isn’t a trash can, take the trash with you when you go. Stay on the trails as much as possible, and only camp in designated areas. Fires should also only be started in safe, designated areas such as fire pits.