Natural swimming hole
Birch Lake State Recreation Site
Lake · Alaska
About this swimming hole
Birch Lake State Recreation Site is a 48-acre state park on the Richardson Highway about 60 miles southeast of Fairbanks, with designated swimming and picnic areas on stocked Birch Lake. The small campground has a boat launch and accessible dock, and the lake is known for rainbow trout, salmon, grayling, and Arctic char. An Air Force military recreation site sits adjacent.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | 841-acre lake; max depth 49 ft; designated swim area |
| Best season | June-August |
| Fees | $5 day use (typical Alaska state park fee) |
| Reservations required | No |
| Parking | park lot |
| Amenities | restrooms, campground, boat launch, picnic areas, drinking water |
| County | Fairbanks North Star Borough |
| Nearest town | Salcha |
| Safety notes | no lifeguard; cold water; jet skis and water skiers share the lake |
Map
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Birch Lake State Recreation Site?
Yes — Birch Lake State Recreation Site is listed as a natural swimming spot in Alaska. Heads-up: no lifeguard; cold water; jet skis and water skiers share the lake. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Birch Lake State Recreation Site require reservations?
No reservations are required at Birch Lake State Recreation Site based on current information — but verify before you go.
Is there a fee to visit Birch Lake State Recreation Site?
Reported fee info: $5 day use (typical Alaska state park fee). Fees can change — confirm with the official link.
When is the best time to visit Birch Lake State Recreation Site?
The best season is typically June-August.