Ophir Creek Campground
05 reviews222 University Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA
Ophir Creek Campground
$12.00 - $24.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$24.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The individual campsite use fee is $12 per night, while the group site costs $24 per night. Fees apply to all camping but are based on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservation service fees (if applicable elsewhere) are outlined separately.
About this campground
Tucked away on the southern edge of the White Mountains National Recreation Area, Ophir Creek Campground offers a pristine escape where towering white spruce trees create a natural cathedral above 20 thoughtfully placed campsites. Here, along the gentle banks of Nome Creek, adventurers find themselves immersed in Alaska's untamed wilderness, with opportunities for world-class fishing, invigorating hikes, and peaceful paddling adventures. The campground's remote setting provides an authentic backcountry experience, where the only sounds breaking the silence are the whisper of wind through spruce boughs and the melodic babble of the creek.
Ophir Creek Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including individual campsites and a designated group campsite. The campground's remote setting and natural surroundings make it ideal for rustic, back-to-nature experiences.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this northern paradise from Memorial Day through mid-September, bringing long days perfect for exploration and comfortable camping conditions. The most coveted camping weeks feature gentle breezes, crystal-clear skies, and minimal rainfall—nature's invitation to outdoor adventure. As autumn approaches, the landscape erupts in golden hues before winter's dramatic arrival brings a harsh yet beautiful transformation, blanketing the wilderness in snow and solitude.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain unrecorded, the campground's position in the Nome Creek Valley creates a unique microclimate sheltered by the surrounding peaks and ridges of the White Mountains.
Natural Features and SceneryCathedral-like white spruce forests frame this riverside sanctuary, where Nome Creek's crystal-clear waters wind through the campground, creating a soundtrack of flowing water that lulls campers to sleep. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap—the legendary Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River awaits paddlers and anglers, while the rewarding 3-mile Table Top Mountain loop trail promises breathtaking panoramic views of the White Mountains' soaring peaks. This untouched wilderness showcases Alaska at its finest, where each sunrise paints the spruce canopy gold and wildlife tracks crisscross the forest floor.
Geological RegionThe campground rests in the heart of Nome Creek Valley, a geological treasure carved into the southern reaches of the White Mountains National Recreation Area. This remarkable landscape features ancient white spruce forests that have stood sentinel for generations, thriving in the nutrient-rich soils deposited by Nome Creek's seasonal flows. The nearby Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River adds another dimension to this diverse ecosystem, creating a tapestry of waterways that have shaped the valley's character over millennia.
Campsite details
Sites SizeEach campsite includes a parking area, picnic table, and fire ring.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is nestled among tall white spruce trees, providing a sense of natural privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers seeking scenic views and proximity to trails should consider sites near Nome Creek and Table Top Mountain trail access.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight the scenic Table Top Mountain trail and proximity to Beaver Creek as notable features, but specific campsite numbers are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits per site are mentioned.
Groups
The group site accommodates larger gatherings, with a fee of $24 per night. Specific details on the maximum number of guests or vehicles are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 20 individual campsites and one group site. Each site features a parking area, picnic table, and fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day through mid-September, coinciding with summer conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNone; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come, first-served, with no reservation system in place.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are not applicable as the campground operates solely on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ophir Creek Campground offers multiple recreational activities, leveraging its location in the White Mountains National Recreation Area. Campers can fish in Nome Creek, hike the day trail to Beaver Creek, or challenge themselves on the 3-mile loop trail to Table Top Mountain, which offers 'awesome views of the higher peaks in the White Mountains.' The campground also provides river access for paddlers heading to Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River. As one user noted, 'Beaver Creek is a 154 river mile float to the Yukon River and I can assure you it will be the most gorgeous trip of a lifetime' (Bobby Pine).
Hiking
The 3-mile loop trail to Table Top Mountain is a highlight, offering stunning views of the White Mountains' higher peaks. Day hiking opportunities also include trails leading to Beaver Creek. One user described Table Top Mountain as a 'grueling 3-mile loop but the scenery is to die for.'Fishing
Fishing is available at Nome Creek, with one user specifically mentioning 'great grayling fishing right at the campground' (Wyndwalker Ranger).Boating
The campground offers river access for paddlers heading to Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River, supporting activities like floating and kayaking. One user expressed enthusiasm about planning a future trip: 'I haven’t floated it yet but I have plans in the making for next summer to do it and make it to the Yukon River Bridge' (Bobby Pine).Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is implied, given the remote and natural setting, but no specific examples or details are provided.Winter Activities
The campground is not maintained during the winter season, so winter activities are not facilitated.Water Sports
The campground supports paddling activities with access to the Nome Creek and Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings at each campsite. Firewood is not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with local wildlife, challenging terrain, and adverse weather conditions during off-season periods.
Active alertsImportant road closures are planned for Nome Creek Road from May to October 2025 (Monday-Friday) for repairs.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 0.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations, are available in Fairbanks (approximately 70 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season aligns with the campground's open period from Memorial Day to mid-September.
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available for waste disposal, but there is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresNome Creek runs adjacent to the campground, and Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River is accessible for paddlers.
Common complaintsSome campers might find the lack of amenities such as hookups inconvenient. However, reviews generally praise the natural beauty and well-maintained facilities.
Campground Map
222 University Ave, Fairbanks, AK 99709, USA
Driving directionsTo reach Nome Creek from Fairbanks, take the Steese Highway to mile 57 and follow the U.S. Creek Road for seven miles to the Nome Creek Road. Taking a left at the junction, it is 12 miles to the Ophir Creek Campground and the put-in for floating Beaver Creek Wild and Scenic River.
The access route includes paved sections of the Steese Highway transitioning into unpaved U.S. Creek Road and Nome Creek Road, which can be challenging during adverse weather conditions. Seasonal closures (midweek May-October 2025 road repair) may also affect accessibility.Nearby places
Fairbanks (approximately 70 miles, 90 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials are available in Fairbanks, AK, approximately 70 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Ophir Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Ophir Creek Campground receives overwhelmingly positive reviews for its scenic location, peaceful environment, and recreational opportunities. Users frequently praise the well-maintained facilities and the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The scenic drive to the campground is also highlighted as part of the experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers have praised the scenic beauty of the drive and the campground itself, the quality of the fishing opportunities, and the trail to Table Top Mountain. The facilities are noted as being clean...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
There are no recorded complaints in the user reviews. One reviewer implied that the campground may not appeal to those seeking modern amenities like hookups.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend exploring the trail to Table Top Mountain and planning a float trip on Beaver Creek. The remote setting and first-come, first-served policy suggest arriving early to secure a site.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews highlight summer as the best season for visiting, coinciding with the campground's operational period.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'One of my favorite Alaska campgrounds. Ride in has awesome views, great grayling fishing right at the campground.' (Wyndwalker Ranger) 2. 'Great place to go camping. The facilities are nice and...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviewers do not provide feedback specific to individual sites.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025