The Kenai Peninsula offers several dispersed camping opportunities near Cooper Landing, Alaska. Located at the confluence of Kenai Lake and Kenai River at an elevation of 500 feet, this region experiences summer temperatures averaging 55-75°F with frequent rainfall. Winter camping is limited by snow conditions, with most free sites accessible only from May through October.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along river access: Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities from its expansive riverbed location. "Scenery was outstanding with snow covered peaks in all directions. We did see bear tracks and evidence of moose but didn't see any when we were there," notes Wes C., who camped there for 4 nights.
Seaplane watching: The free camping area at Moose Pass offers unique aviation viewing. According to Jessica K., "Saw two seaplanes take off from the lake (take the Southern spot for this). Hwy is loud but manageable, train as well." Seaplanes operate regularly during daylight hours.
Beach exploration: Some pullout areas provide shoreline access just minutes from your vehicle. Riley N. discovered this accidentally: "We happened across this spot when taking a wrong turn. We loved it! Beach access through a short trail so we were able to explore and not a lot of road noise."
What campers like
River proximity: The Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area offers convenient water access on a vast gravel riverbed. Kathryn F. explains, "This is an awesome spot to hang out when in the Seward area! There is tons area for lots of rigs. The entrance is pretty narrow so it might not be best for anything larger than a truck camper or van."
Space and privacy: Many free sites near Cooper Landing provide ample room between campers. At Moose Pass, Erik I. reports, "A great open spot for many vehicles, including big rigs. Some spots are tucked into trees for more privacy while others are open for better Starlink and solar. Some spots right on the water."
Convenience to attractions: The location between major destinations makes this area practical for multi-day exploration. Reid S. commented about Exit Glacier Road, "The mountains are incredible, and it's a perfect nook between Seward and Kenai Fjords NP."
What you should know
High-clearance vehicle requirements: Many free camping areas require appropriate vehicles. For Lost Lake Trailhead, Tanya B. advises, "The road after the sign is rough and a good 4 X 4 or ATV is recommended. This 7-mile hiking trail will take you to Lost Lake. After a 2-mile incline hike the trail opens up and levels off half way in."
Bear safety essential: All camping areas require proper food storage. "This is bear country and some of the camp sites have bear boxes. There are also pit toilets but always pack your own TP," notes Tanya B. about the Lost Lake area.
Limited services: Free campsites typically lack amenities. Kevin H. states about Moose Pass, "As with most BLM trailheads, no services. Big area, some shaded mostly unshaded but big enough to have your own space. No onsite services. Seward offers free dump and potable water - near their RV parks."
Tips for camping with families
Opt for managed access areas: Tustumena Lake provides more structure for family camping. Joseph W. shares, "Stayed one night over memorial day weekend. The camping area at the end of the road was full but there were some spots along the road in that were available. This place is full of wildlife and is a very cool spot to stay. There were loons calling through the night."
Consider water activities: Lakefront camping allows for swimming and paddling options. Bonnie P. notes about Tustumena Lake, "This is a small campground with individual sites. It has a lake with boat ramp access and is used frequently, during summer months."
Pack for variable weather: Summer temperatures can change rapidly, requiring layered clothing and rain gear. The Cooper Landing area receives approximately 25 inches of rainfall annually, concentrated in late summer and fall.
Tips from RVers
Cell service varies widely: Connectivity depends on specific camping location and carrier. About Moose Pass, Kevin H. reports, "Starlink, Visible/Verizon and Cricket/Att all good," while at Exit Glacier Road, Kathryn F. found that "the cell service was almost non existent. We had one tiny bar for AT&T and nothing for Verizon."
Watch entrance clearance: Some free camping areas have challenging access points. Kristi D. shares about Decision Point Dispersed Camping, "The entrance comes up quick and has huge rocks blocking part of the road. We blew by it the first time and said no way, but then we pulled over and I ran to see who was camping and surprisingly a bunch of bigger campers etc got back there."
Consider solar capabilities: Several sites offer good solar charging potential. At Moose Pass, some campers specifically seek "open spots for better Starlink and solar" according to Erik I., making it suitable for extended stays with proper equipment.
