Kasilof River Special Use Area

Dispersed beach camping defines this special use area where campers set up anywhere within designated boundaries along the coastline. The site functions as a large parking area with direct beach access, though drivers should exercise caution on sand surfaces that turn to mudflats at low tide. Eight to ten porta-potties line the area where beach meets road, providing basic facilities during peak season.

Most visitors arrive for subsistence fishing, particularly dipnetting, with locals bringing elaborate setups for multi-day fishing sessions. The location provides convenient staging for early morning fishing without crowds, just a 20-minute walk from popular dipnetting areas. Campers seeking additional options can explore campgrounds around Kasilof or nearby Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground. ATV activity and occasional late-night noise from other campers may disrupt quiet hours, making this spot best suited for anglers prioritizing fishing access over campground amenities.

Check AvailabilitySuggest an Edit

Map & DirectionsKasilof River Special Use Area is located in Alaska near Kasilof

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

60.38802393 N
151.29935755 W

Open in Google Maps

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/16/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/16/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/16/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 5/16/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Group
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Fires

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


2026 Explorer Giveaway

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Kasilof River Special Use Area

Add Review

5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

0%
34%
34%
34%
0%

3.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Dispersed beach camping area popular with fishing enthusiasts, offering ocean access and convenience to dipnetting spots. Seasonal restroom maintenance issues noted, with sandy conditions that can turn muddy at low tide.

Reviewed Sep. 26, 2022

No bathrooms during off season

Mainly a large parking lot, no bathrooms this time of year. Beautiful right on the way, be careful driving on the sand especially at low tide it quickly turns to mud flats

Siteparking lot
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Kasilof River Special Use Area by SJ D., September 26, 2022
  • Review photo of Kasilof River Special Use Area by SJ D., September 26, 2022
  • Review photo of Kasilof River Special Use Area by SJ D., September 26, 2022
Reviewed Jul. 31, 2021

Fishing hot spot

The special use area was open for Subsistence fishing - and made for an easy place to camp outside of Kenai. Not really a scenic site, but efficient with trash and porta potties. Most other campers were local with big set ups for the fishing days.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Kasilof River Special Use Area by Stephanie Z., July 31, 2021
  • map of special use area
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Kasilof River Special Use Area by Stephanie Z., July 31, 2021
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2018

Convenient for dipnetting

Camping is basically anywhere on the beach where you can find a spot (within signposted designated area). It's dispersed. While it was busy, we had no trouble finding a spot that wasn't too crowded. I said the cost is 0-$10 as I don't remember how much we paid. I recall we had a permit that we fixed to our tent, but it was very cheap.

There were about 8 to 10 porta-potties all in a row at the where the beach meets the road. They were disgusting and nearly full. In fact, it has been 2 years since we were down there and that is my biggest memory. Others who frequent the campground bring a tall "privacy" tent with their own portable toileting system- probably a bucket.

A little loud at night with a few raucous drunk people on ATVs. We parked our car in front of our tent as a deterrent. There were no problems, luckily.

It was beautiful, being on the ocean and a short drive or 20 min walk to the popular dipnetting area. And convenient to get up for early morning dipnetting sessions without the crowds. The weather was great but I imagine it would be rough camping on the beach if windy with flying sand everywhere.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Kasilof River Special Use Area by Stacey C., August 28, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access the fishing spots on the Kasilof River?

The Kasilof River Special Use Area provides direct access to fishing spots along the river. The area is popular for subsistence fishing and offers easy river entry points. Local fishermen typically set up substantial camps during the fishing season. When accessing the fishing areas, be cautious about driving on the sand, especially during low tide when mud flats can become hazardous. For the best fishing experience, check current regulations and consider bringing appropriate gear for the conditions. The area is efficiently organized to accommodate fishing activities with adequate space for equipment.

What are the camping options at Kasilof River special use area?

Kasilof River Special Use Area offers dispersed camping on the beach within designated areas marked by signage. Camping is primitive and you can set up anywhere you find a suitable spot on the beach. A permit is required, which needs to be displayed during your stay. Despite the popularity of the area, particularly during fishing seasons, campers generally find space without excessive crowding. The area features basic amenities including trash receptacles and portable toilets, though these may be seasonal. Be prepared for a utilitarian camping experience rather than a scenic retreat.

Where is Kasilof River Campground located on the Alaska map?

The Kasilof River Special Use Area is located on Alaska's Kenai Peninsula, situated just outside the city of Kenai. It sits at the mouth of the Kasilof River where it meets Cook Inlet. This location makes it a convenient stopping point for travelers exploring the Kenai Peninsula or those making their way between Soldotna and Homer. The campground is positioned directly on the waterway, offering water access and coastal views. For precise directions, consult the Alaska Department of Natural Resources website or use GPS coordinates for navigation.