Harding Lake State Recreation Area, 45 miles south of Fairbanks on the Richardson Highway, is one of the longest standing park facilities in the Alaska State Park system, having been established in 1967. All together there are over 90 campsites, including five walk-in group campsites. The park also has numerous picnic sites and two picnic shelters. In addition, areas have been set aside for activities such as baseball, volleyball and horseshoes with equipment available at the ranger station. Hiking along nature trails is another activity available at Harding Lake. A boat launch facility gives access to the lake for canoes, motorized boats, jet skis or other watercraft. A straight canal leads from the boat launch toward the center of the lake. There is fishing for lake trout, arctic char and burbot.
The main campground, consisting of 78 vehicle and five walk-in sites, is located in a spruce/birch forest. Many vehicle sites are large enough to accommodate large motorhomes or trailers. Some sites are adjacent to others, allowing groups to park together. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. Firewood can also be purchased at the campground. Additional camping space is also available for self-contained units week days at the Lakefront day use area and additional camping for up to 10 camp units is available in the Camp Lot camping area, which is located close to the lake. Also, the game field parking lot can hold a maximum of 12 camping units.
For more information, fees, availability contact:
Alaska Public Lands Information Center
3700 Airport Way
Fairbanks, AK 99709-4699
Phone: (907) 451-2705
http://www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/units/harding.htm