151 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Cooper Landing in Alaska serves as a base for exploring multiple campground options within the Chugach National Forest and Kenai National Wildlife Refuge. The area features established campgrounds like Cooper Creek North and South, Quartz Creek, and Russian River Complex, which accommodate both tent and RV camping. Some locations offer additional accommodation types, including cabins at Kenai Princess Wilderness Lodge and yurts at Cooper Landing Fishing Guide. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities like toilets, trash disposal, and picnic tables, while several sites are positioned along the Kenai River or Kenai Lake, making them popular destinations for fishing enthusiasts.
Camping season in this region typically runs from mid-May through early September, with most facilities closing after Labor Day weekend. "Small but lovely campground on a one way road right on the Kenai river. Sites are spread out, a couple tent spots and a couple of camper spots," noted one camper about Cooper Creek South. Many campgrounds operate on a mixed reservation and first-come, first-served basis, with popular waterfront sites filling quickly during peak salmon fishing season. Bear activity requires proper food storage, with many campgrounds providing bear-proof lockers. Weather conditions can change rapidly in this mountainous region, and visitors should be prepared for cool temperatures even during summer months. Limited cell service exists throughout the area, particularly at more remote sites.
Riverside camping opportunities attract many visitors to Cooper Landing, particularly anglers pursuing salmon runs. Campers consistently mention the convenience of staying near premier fishing locations as a significant advantage. The campgrounds along Kenai Lake provide scenic mountain views with aqua-colored water that receive high ratings from visitors. Larger campgrounds like Quartz Creek feature both lakeside and creek-side loops with varying levels of sun exposure and bug activity. According to one visitor, "This USFS Campground is right off the highway at Kenai Lake near Coopers Landing. Easy access for most any size RVs or trailers, well spaced, improved, level sites with big wooden tables and metal fire pits." During red salmon runs from mid-July through mid-August, campgrounds experience their highest occupancy levels, and wildlife viewing opportunities increase as bears frequent fishing areas.
"If you asked me where my favorite spot in Alaska is, I might just choose the Russian River."
"Many Alaska campers know that one bar of cell service is a luxury but being able to get your email too. This is glamping. Tent camper please check any restrictions."
from $23 - $33 / night
Check Availability"This USFS Campground is right off the highway at Kenai Lake near Coopers Landing."
"Quartz Creek Campground is a lovely little spot, situated between Quartz Creek and Kenai Lake. There are 45 spaces at this campground, so it's one of the larger ones."
from $23 - $33 / night
Check Availability"There were paths around the campground to the lodge and down to the lake, which we enjoyed walking with our pups. There weren’t many grocery options in Cooper Landing."
"The main lodge is just a short walk away too. Grocery store, shower, laundry ADA accessible, Ice and Propane make this a wonderful stop."
"It was a very convenient campsite off the highway on the way to Homer, in the national forest. only $23 a night to camp or $11.50 if your a senior or have an access pass."
"We stayed in the first site and while it was sort of close to the road the noise wasn’t bad because you have the river so close. Perhaps not the best site for small children."
from $33 / night
Check Availability"Cooper Creek is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers."
"Large spaces right next to the Kenai River. Easily get to places that do rafting trips and fishing right from your camp site! Beautiful aqua water with mountain views!"
from $23 - $33 / night
Check Availability"Hidden lake campground is a family friendly campground. Located on the kenai peninsula, you are sure to see some awesome wildlife. Lots of hiking and water sports at this campground."
"Hidden Lake canpground is made up of three sections."
"Honestly, you can't go wrong - especially if you're utilizing the Forest Service cabins sprinkled all over Alaska. This particular cabin was in amazing condition, and very clean."
"The US Forest Service owns little cabins all over AK and each varies in amenities, age, distance, etc."
from $75 / night
Check Availability"The stunning lake view and access made the campsite worth dealing with the bugs and bears."
"Close to plenty of lakes and hiking trails."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"The lake is one of the most beautiful views in alaska in my opinion. facilities are clean and spacious. Picnic tables and fire pits at each spot."
"The campground provides ample space for large group activities around the pavilion or your own little nook, tucked along the banks of the lakes. this campground was so fun to have our gatherings at!"
from $23 - $200 / night
Check Availabilityfrom $100 / night
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TravelerCame on Aug 14. It’s mostly an RV site. There are basic pit toilets and dumpster. No water at the site but there is water and showers at the harbor from what we heard. Pay through the app Lots of flies
GuideThis was a great find on our way to Whittier. We had an amazing view of the glacier. Campground was clean and quiet. Hiking trails are through the park too.
ScoutThere's probably around 30 sites here they are not numbered they are somewhat private separated by trees and brush and some of them are right next to the river there is no tables fire rings are made of rocks not very well maintained some not to level
GuideClose to road so easy access. Water pump. Vault toilets. On lake summit
GuideGreat place to go explore the beach at low tides. Excellent views
GuideTent sites up to a few larger RV sites. 3 miles up a dirt road. Historic mine next door where you can pan for gold. 28-30' is probably the largest rig you want to take there. No walk ins, online reservation only.
LegendGeneral: RV sites, bunkhouse, tent camping, cabins, and historical suites. Additional campsites are available in the pasture during Dip Net season (July 10-31) for Alaska residents. The office/store is a recreation of Gold Rush-era buildings from various towns in Alaska. Sites are FHU.
Site Quality: Sites are mostly level. Some are gravel, and some are dirt. We were traveling in a caravan, and many of us had buddy sites (I believe this was to accommodate the influx for dip net season). This was not a problem as we used our 110 extension cord to convert to 30-amp for power. The sites are close together; some have trees providing privacy/separation, but not all of them.
Bath/Shower: There are four all-in-one (toilet, sink, shower) units plus laundry in our area of the campground (there is another bathhouse/laundry in another part of the campground). Again, because of the crowds for dip net, there was often a wait for a bathroom, and soap and/or paper towels would run out before the day was over. Not everyone heeded the signs asking campers to make sure shower curtains are closed to prevent flooding!
Activities/Amenities: The main amenity is the petting zoo and Matti’s farm tour on Saturday mornings ($5/per person for registered guests or $10 for community members; 50% of the proceeds go to their non-profit Mattis’s Farm, and the other 50% goes toward feeding the animals and permaculture education). At the end of the tour, you can interact with the animals (emus, chickens, goats, rabbits, a turkey). Ronna also leads guided hikes. One of Ronna and Blair’s daughters makes giant and delicious cinnamon rolls from her grandfather’s recipe on Fridays and Saturdays for a donation. There is a viewing deck open 24 hours/day and, on a clear day, you can see views of four of the peaks of the Ring of Fire. There is basketball, pickleball, a playground, and bike rentals. Free WiFi, although the signal is not strong. Also, a fish cleaning station.
It is obvious that Blair and Ronna and their family members are passionate about Diamond M. Blair and Ronna lead the farm tours, and during our stay, we saw one or both of them around the property.
ScoutAnyone that is into the outdoors from rudimentary camping to RV lifestyle it is perfect
GuideCool and quirky campsite names. Some nestled in the trees and some side by side waterfront. Cabins of various levels of accommodation are available. All kinds of fishing charters directly available from office. Good gift shop and a nice little Bistro, coffee place.
Cooper Landing sits at the confluence of the Kenai and Russian Rivers in Alaska's Chugach National Forest at about 500 feet elevation. Campsites near Cooper Landing, Alaska remain accessible from mid-May through early September when temperatures range from 45°F at night to 65°F during the day. Local campgrounds provide strategic access to premier salmon fishing locations while offering varying levels of amenities for different camping styles.
Canoe or kayak on Kenai Lake: Quartz Creek Campground offers direct lake access with aqua-colored glacial waters. "This site has it all. Camping, day use and boat launch. We enjoyed our spot here even though we couldn't get on right on the water so we spent most of our time in the day use area fishing," notes Riley N.
Hike to Russian Falls: The Russian River Complex provides access to several notable trails. "Try the Russian Lakes Trail if you are interested in a short hike to see salmon jump into the Russian Falls. The Angler's Trail will take you right to the Kenai-Russian River Confluence - one of the most unique sights in the world!" advises Taylor W.
Fish for seasonal salmon runs: Cooper Creek North Campground caters to anglers with riverside sites. "During the height of the fishing season this campground fills up fast. Get there early in the week for a chance for a spot," recommends Tanya B. The fishing season peaks in July-August when red salmon runs attract both anglers and bears.
Look for wildlife: The Trail River Campground offers opportunities to spot eagles and bears. "Saw plenty of bald eagles and a black bear by the river," reports Dori S. about her experience camping in the area.
Spacious, private sites: Cooper Creek South receives praise for its layout and privacy. "Sites are spread out, a couple tent spots and a couple of camper spots. There appears to be seven spots and if this is full, you can go just up the road to the next campground," explains Kristi D.
Mountain and water views: Upper Skilak Lake Campground's scenery impresses visitors. "Paved pads with gorgeous sites some right on the water. Tent sites at $5 a night and Standard sites for camper and RV's run $10," reports Shadara W., noting the exceptional value for waterfront camping.
Bear-proof facilities: Most campgrounds provide bear protection measures. "Bear lockers at every site. Bathrooms are just pit toilets. Love this place. Short hikes to the falls and the river," shares Dori S. about Russian River Complex.
Interconnected trail systems: Trail River Campground offers unique pathways between sites. "There are beautiful little paths between the camp sites that makes this place feel like a fairytale," explains Kyle F. These trails create connections while maintaining privacy between campsites.
Bear safety requirements: All Cooper Landing area campgrounds enforce strict food storage rules. "Sites have a picnic table and firepit. Nice separated some with views of the mountains and even a few with partial river view. Perfect fishing spot and also a nice paved home to the Russian River Falls. Watch for bears at all times and always have your fishing license on ya," advises Shadara W. about Russian River Complex.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. "It is a bumpy road to get to this campground. Skilak road is spotty on maintenance," warns Tanya B. about Upper Skilak Lake Campground.
Reservation systems vary: Campgrounds use mixed booking methods. "Online registration, Huge sites, Amazing views, and a well maintained campground this place has it all," notes Tanya B. about Russian River Complex. Many sites allow advance reservations while others remain first-come, first-served.
Limited services: Most campgrounds provide only basic amenities. "This is a dry campground, so all us camper/RV folks make sure to charge your phones up before coming out!" cautions Katie B. about Russian River Complex.
Look for group sites: Trail River Campground accommodates larger gatherings. "This is probably the biggest campsite I have ever been to. There is an area where you can have multiple cars (i.e. 4 families) with a playground and canopy area," shares Joshua L.
Consider ADA-accessible options: Several campgrounds offer accessible sites. "Cooper Creek is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers... This campground is great for group camping trips, as each site is rated for 8 people and a few can have up to 12. There are many ada-acessible sites to choose from as well," explains Taylor W.
Pack for mosquitoes: Bug activity can be intense at certain times. "Bring a bug screen or bug dope," advises Tanya B., while Kyle F. notes "insane numbers of mosquitos" at Trail River Campground, making proper preparation essential for family comfort.
Select campgrounds based on size: Quartz Creek Campground accommodates larger vehicles. "Easy access for most any size RVs or trailers, well spaced, improved, level sites with big wooden tables and metal fire pits," notes JR M.
Check site configurations: Some sites have challenging layouts for larger rigs. "We ended up with a pull through spot that was a pain to get our rig into (26' pull behind). Luckily it was the first spot in the loop so we were able to back it in and have the door open to the footprint and the slide towards the road," shares Megan W. about Russian River Complex.
Look for dump stations: Some facilities offer RV services not advertised online. "We were surprised as we pulled in to the campground to see a sign for a dump station. All of our research showed no dump station or potable water. They have both! Looks pretty new," reports Jon L. about Quartz Creek Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Cooper Landing, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cooper Landing, AK offers a wide range of camping options, with 151 campgrounds and RV parks near Cooper Landing, AK and 9 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Cooper Landing, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cooper Landing, AK is Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED with a 4.8-star rating from 13 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cooper Landing, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 9 free dispersed camping spots near Cooper Landing, AK.
What parks are near Cooper Landing, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Cooper Landing, AK that allow camping, notably Chugach National Forest and Kenai Fjords National Park.
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