Dispersed camping sites near Homer, Alaska offer beachfront options along Kachemak Bay and more protected forested sites inland. This coastal town sits at approximately 72 feet above sea level with summer temperatures averaging 55-65°F. Wind conditions significantly impact camping comfort, with beachfront sites experiencing stronger gusts that can challenge tent campers.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: Mariner Park provides direct beach access with extensive tide pools revealed during low tide. A camper noted, "The tide goes out far, providing fun exploration activities for kids! It can get a little loud with the nearby road, but you get used to it."
Fishing charters: Homer Spit Campground serves as an ideal base for fishing trips. "Homer is also the place to get a water taxi to see Kachemak Bay, Halibut Cove, Seldovia, Nanwalek and Port Graham. Water taxi rides are roughly 75$ round trip for one person," explains one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Anchor River State Recreation Area offers opportunities to spot local wildlife. A camper who stayed at Steelhead campground shared, "Right by the River, Catched my First King Salmon on my Fly Rod." The area comprises five separate campgrounds: Coho, Silverking, Slidehole, Steelhead, and Halibut.
Shopping local crafts: The Homer Spit features numerous local artisan shops. According to a camper, "It has Restaurants tons of little shops. Some geared toward touristy things but some of the best hand crafted made only in Alaska gifts that keep you coming back for more."
What campers like
Beachfront camping experiences: Ocean Shores RV Park provides views of Kachemak Bay. A visitor noted, "Beautiful view of the ocean and close to downtown Homer. We had full hookups and the bathroom and showers were excellent and clean."
Mountain vistas: Campers consistently mention the mountain views across the bay. "Homer is my favorite town. It is so fun to camp here, right on the bay, with the mountains in the distance. It's the perfect camp!" shares one camper about Homer Spit Campground.
Easy beach access: Many campsites provide direct beach access or short trails to the shore. A camper at Ocean Shores RV Park mentioned, "Very clean! Really! Amenities in good condition. Good view," while another noted there is "a short trail down to the beach."
Showers and facilities: Heritage RV Park receives praise for its clean facilities. "Excellent showers, very clean and laundry facilities larger than any other campground we have ever stayed at," wrote one camper, adding it has "a very nice coffee shop with doughnuts and a relaxing place to sit and enjoy them."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Beachfront sites experience significant wind. A camper at Mariner Park explained, "I only stayed here for one night. We had planned to stay a second, but the wind was so bad that it blew over our tent and woke us up at night."
High-season crowds: Reservations are essential during peak fishing seasons. A visitor to Homer Spit Campground observed, "Very crowded. The first row is on the beach, but goes very fast!"
Limited hookups at public sites: Many public campgrounds offer minimal amenities. At Fishing Hole Campground, a camper noted, "This is just a gravel lot and the site markings are not super clear. The water front ones are the best, but since it's FCFS you need to be there before the weekend rush."
Off-season closures: Most campgrounds close by mid-September. Regarding Fishing Hole Campground, a visitor explained, "Restrooms are community shared with the local public fishing in the lagoon. Better than an outhouse. There is a dump station on site that used to be free now it's on the honor system."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some inland campgrounds include playground facilities. At Anchor River State Recreation Area, a visitor recommended, "If you are looking for camping closer to the beach try spots at Halibut campground. There are plenty of amenities in Anchor Point including store and Post office. Plus pizza which is good after driving all day and not wanting to cook for the family."
Beach activities: Sand areas provide natural play spaces. "The sand is great and the tide goes out far, providing fun exploration activities for kids!" shared a Mariner Park camper.
Weather preparation: Pack extra layers and rain gear for children. At Baycrest RV Park, a camper advised, "Campground is well maintained. About 20 min drive from Homer spit. Sites are a little tight but the views are amazing!"
Food options: Some campgrounds have nearby food services. A camper at Anchor River State Recreation Area pointed out, "There are plenty of amenities in Anchor Point including store and Post office. Plus pizza which is good after driving all day and not wanting to cook for the family."
Tips from RVers
Spit parking challenges: RV spaces on Homer Spit fill quickly. A visitor to Fishing Hole Campground noted, "At $20 per night it is half the cost of the next cheapest place," adding it's "a gravel lot next to the fishing hole on the Homer Spit."
Site leveling: Many campgrounds require leveling equipment. At Ocean Shores RV Park, a camper observed, "The whole park slopes downward toward the beach bluff, however they did a reasonable job terracing each site so it is mostly level."
Hookup locations: Check hookup placement before arrival. A camper at Driftwood Inn & Homer Seaside Lodges mentioned, "Sites are small and very close to each other, and some of the sites the hookups are on the opposite side, but I guess that depends if you back in or pull in."
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds have dump stations. At Heritage RV Park, a visitor appreciated that "there are electrical and sewer hookups" and it has "showers, toilets, a common area, drink machines, gift shop, and everything you need in the main building."
