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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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.
What you should know
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.
Tips for camping with families
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.
Tips from RVers
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.
