Captain Cook State Recreation Area

Tucked away off the main Kenai Peninsula roads, Captain Cook SP sees fewer visitors and offers campers a nice quiet way to spend a few days. While fishing might be the main outdoor activity here, walking along the rocky beach of Cook inlet can’t be beat. 

The campsites are rustic and small, with just a few able to serve larger rigs. The road through the campground is winding and hilly so we’d recommend not bringing a long 5th wheel or bus in here. The vault toilets were clean and water was available through spigots located around the loop. Like all Alaskan State Park wells, they recommend that you treat, filter, or boil all water before consuming. The forest canopy made it a bit of a challenge for our solar system, but our portable solar suitcase was able to make up the difference by periodically moving it around to the sunny spot. 

Hiking trails lead throughout the campground and down to the beach where you could walk for miles if you wanted. The views of Cook Inlet and the mountains of the western shore are stunning on clear days and the sunsets were incredible.  Denali is probably visible occasionally. There was an “Alaskan boat launch," aka a 4-wheel drive road down to the beach where you could launch a small craft, canoe or kayak, and cycling along the roads is possible. There are ample fishing opportunities throughout the area, as well as companies which will take you further inland by seaplane to find your own isolated spot. 

The closest town with full services is Kenai, and the larger village of Soldatna for mechanics, gas, groceries and restaurants.

Following the Spur Highway to the very end and hang a left; you will find the entrance to Discovery campground. Running along the bluffs and curling back, this campground offers amazing views of Cook Inlet, a secluded location, and quietness.

Days can be spent hiking, fishing out of the mouth of the Swanson River, and exploring the beach; which is best done during low tide. which reveals a beautiful rocky vistage, and tons of flats to walk along. Bring your mud boots though as there are large muddy sections between you and the rocks.

Mornings and evenings provide amazing sunrises or sunsets blasting beautiful reds, purples and pinks along the mountains across the bay. The Dicovery trail and Interpative trail offer short hikes weaving through the Forrest and low brush as well. BrIng bug spray though or you mIght get carrIed away!

One of my favorite camgrounds! Quiet and peaceful (minus the low constant buzz of skeeters) with great campsites i‘ve spent more then my share of weekends here. Entire days have been burnt exploring the low tide rocks, tidal pools, and collecting stones. As a photographer, the sunsets are spectacular and full of color!

Need to knows:

• 53 total camp sites
• Good for either tent or motorhome campIng
• Each site provIdes a fIre pit, a picnic table and a bench.
• Well water and a dumpster are provIded.
• Bathrooms are clean and decently kept.
• BrIng your supplies: the nearest market Is about 20 mInutes away.
• Bug spray Is a necessity!
• Bears are occasional visitors so keep your eyes open.

If you looking to find the treasure at the end of the road.. THIS IS IT!!

Just when you thought you have seen all the simple road system of Alaska.. turn right on Kenai Spur Road and go to the end.. literally. There you find a hidden treasure, few find! We found this on one of our " Let's just drive" adventures.

Be sure to bring all the supplies you need as the nearest store is 20 minutes back the way you came.. that includes wood.. unless you scavenge the beach for some.

We arrived in the mist of torrential rain.. common for August in Alaska.. and quickly wished for that extra tarp I didn't want to pack. Each camp spot is small but clean with a fire pit and table. You will be surrounded by trees and foliage which provide privacy and the cook inlet is one full side of your site! A complete plus!

There is a lake near by called Stormy Lake where you can launch a boat, kayak or canoe. You will need bring your own as there are no rentals here. You can fish here or in the river that runs near by, Swanson River. Remember you need a fishing license (16+) as game wardens pop up like leprechauns in Alaska :)

Where there are fish there are bears.. so be bear aware. Carry bear spray, keep food in your car or do the triangle food hang ( not sure you can google that) and keep a clean camp site. You may also see Eagles and moose!

There are fresh water pumps and state bathrooms.. which provide a dry spot in torrential rain.. no judging here..

For those of you who love to RV there are Rv sites and sites for handicap and day sites.

There is plenty of trails to just wander and take in the beauty around you. We took full advantage of being the only people out beach combing in the rain. We read this is a good agate beach.. we didn't find any but the rain make everything bright and shiny so we used this time for wonderful photos.

overall a wonderful end of the road experience, with few people and wonderful nature!!