Frequently asked questions

Q.  How much gold will I find?
A.  This is our most asked and most difficult to answer! Basically, you will get as much as you put into it. There are NO GUARANTEES Gold Mining. However, the South Fork of the 40 Mile River is a gold rich river with many ancient gold deposits. It takes a lot of hard work, a lot of willingness to learn and a little luck. The gold is there and we do our very best to ensure all guests go home happy :)

Q.  Can I do more than dredge?
A.  Absolutely! We have high-bankers, sluices, metal detectors, fishing, and hiking. Our main focus is on dredging but we have all of the equipment available for no extra charge.

Q.  Do I need an ATV or Rhino at camp?
A.  No. We are on the river, with our mining ground within walking distance or a short boat/hovercraft ride. Being in a heavily wooded area, there is no need for an atv, which means No Extra Rental Fees.

Q.  Is there clean water to drink?
A.  Yes. We have an incredible filtration system in the kitchen. All water we use to cook with is cleaned and filtered first.

Q.  What do meals consist of at camp?
A.  Breakfast is always hot. Each morning will be different, with eggs and bacon, pancake and eggs, hash browns or biscuits and gravy. Lunch is made daily, by guests, from a variety of sandwiches and snacks. We provide a daily spread of high quality lunch ingredients to keep you happy and full during your mining day. Dinner will consist of Pork Chops, Pulled Pork, Ribs, Chicken, Steak, Ham, Turkey etc. We ensure all guests are well fed with delicious food. Unfortunately due to the isolated nature of camp, we cannot make individual meals. Everything is family style. Allergies WILL be considered when meals are prepped. Safety is a top priority. If you are gluten free or a vegetarian, please call us before booking.

Q.  Can I bring my young children?
A.  The unfortunate answer is no. The Alaskan Bush is dangerous and full of too many variables for young children. As a family ran camp, you will see pictures of our children but due to insurance liability issues, we cannot in good conscience allow guests young children. IF your child is between the ages of 12-17, we will consider them in camp, dredging, on a case by case basis. Give us a call to discuss your family trip.

Q.  How do I get to Chicken Alaska, is airfare included with my trip?
A.  Upon booking your trip we will send you a confirmation letter confirming your trip and dates along with meeting dates and times.  You will have to purchase airline tickets to Fairbanks, Alaska. We meet our guests at the airport or the hotel of your choice the first day of your trip around 7:30am. Our hotel recommendation is Pikes Waterfront Lodge which is near the airport with free shuttle service. We will coordinate pick-ups around town if guests are spread around Fairbanks at different hotels. Due to Fairbanks being a high traffic and busy tourist destination during the summer hotels book up several months in advance. Book early!

Q.  What will I need to bring with me on my trip?
A.  A trip checklist is sent out with all guests Welcome Packets. Please contact us if you would like a copy beforehand.

Q.  How far is it from Fairbanks to GFP camp?
A.  The distance from Fairbanks to Chicken is 285 miles.  It is a very scenic drive and we will make a few stops along the way (gift shop, convenience stores, Fred Meyers, Lunch).  Once we arrive in Chicken you will have a 17 mile jet boat or hovercraft ride down river to our camp.

Q.  We are driving up to Alaska or live in Alaska already; can we meet you in Chicken?
A.  Yes.  We offer a $250/person discount for guests who want to meet us in Chicken. There is a parking lot at the boat dock, where you can safely park your vehicle for the duration of your stay.

Q.  Is there a Charter service in between Fairbanks and Chicken so we don't have to make the drive?
A.  Yes.  Contact Tok Air Service out of Tok, Alaska (there are a few other charter services you could contact as well) for details on their flights between Fairbanks and Chicken. We offer a $250/person discount for guests that fly into Chicken.

Q.  Can I bring a Firearm with me on my trip?
A.  Yes. Please check with your specific airline for regulations to be compliant traveling with your firearms.

Q.  Are bears a problem at the camp?
A.  No.  There has never been a guest at our camp threatened or in danger of a bear attack.  There have been curious bears that come around camp but usually move along.  With that said, it is the Alaskan wilderness and all precautions should be taken. Safety for our guests is our number one priority.  We do have bear spray available for guests that what to venture out away from camp and we will discuss basic bear safety with everyone upon arrival.

Q.  Is there phone service at camp?
A.  Starlink is provided at camp for guest use.

Q.  Can I charge electronics at camp?
A.  Yes. We have full solar power and generators at camp. All electronics can be charged in the main dining hall. There is not individual power in each hooch.

Q.  Are deposits or payments refundable?
A.  No. Deposits guarantee your spot in camp. Payments are used to set up your time in camp, months in advance. We recommend all guests get Travel Insurance, which is reasonably priced through Travel Guard and many other companies, as we know unexpected things can happen before your travel. Trips can be rescheduled the same year, due to availability or the following mining season only. They can also be transferred to another person, but is your responsibility solely.

If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us.