Quartz Lake State Recreation Area boat launch at Quartz Lake SRA
🏆🏆🏆🏆 Interior Alaska’s Best Lake — Stunning 1,500-acre lake with trophy rainbow trout and silver salmon at the gateway to the Delta River country
Quartz Lake State Recreation Area protects 1,500 acres of pristine lake and boreal forest along the Richardson Highway near Delta Junction. The crystal-clear lake is stocked with rainbow trout, landlocked silver salmon, and Arctic char — making it one of the most productive sport fishing lakes in Interior Alaska. The park features two campgrounds, a swim beach, boat launches, and a connected trail system linking Quartz Lake to Lost Lake. In winter, the frozen lake offers ice fishing and cross-country skiing.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Near Delta Junction, AK (Richardson Hwy) |
| Size | 1,500 acres |
| Entry Fee | $5 parking / $15-20 camping |
| Fishing | Rainbow trout, silver salmon, Arctic char |
| Winter | Ice fishing, cross-country skiing |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the lake swimmable?
Yes! Quartz Lake has a designated swim beach and reaches 65-70°F in July — warm by Alaska standards. It’s one of the best swimming lakes in Interior Alaska.
About Quartz Lake
Quartz Lake State Recreation Area near Delta Junction features two lakes — Quartz Lake and Lost Lake — offering year-round fishing in the eastern Interior. The area is one of the most popular fishing destinations between Fairbanks and Tok. Quartz Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and silver salmon, while Lost Lake offers a quieter experience.
Things to Do
Fishing for rainbow trout, silver salmon, and Arctic char, camping (80+ sites across two campgrounds), boating, swimming, ice fishing in winter, and birdwatching. One of Interior Alaska’s most popular family recreation areas.
Insider Tips
Interior fishing gem: Quartz Lake is one of the best stocked-trout fisheries near Delta Junction. Pro tip: The lake has both a boat launch and a trail connecting to Lost Lake — fish both for different species. Camping: The campground has excellent facilities by Alaska standards — fire rings, outhouses, and maintained sites. Reserve early for summer weekends.
Best Time to Visit
June-August: Rainbow trout and silver salmon fishing. Winter: Ice fishing for lake trout and burbot. September: Northern Lights season begins. Spring: Ice breakup and opening day fishing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Quartz Lake stocked?
Yes — Alaska’s stocking program plants rainbow trout, Arctic char, and landlocked silver salmon in Quartz Lake. The stocked fishery provides excellent catch rates, especially for families with children.
🎣 Visit Quartz Lake SRA
Interior Alaska’s premier lake — trophy trout, silver salmon, and year-round recreation.
