Best Campgrounds near Kasilof, AK

Camping sites near Kasilof, Alaska offer access to the Kenai Peninsula's diverse waterways and abundant wildlife. The area lies between 50-200 feet above sea level with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45-65°F. Most campsites in the region remain open from mid-May through September, with road conditions and accessibility varying throughout the season.

What to do

Fishing at multiple access points: Centennial Park & Campground provides numerous fishing platforms along the Kenai River. "Many upgrades and nice trail system around the campground. Great place to camp with your dogs," notes a camper who has visited for 20 years.

Beach exploration: Clam Gulch State Rec Area features a trail leading down to sandy beaches with exceptional beachcombing. "There is a trail down to a beautiful beach," reports one camper, while another notes it has "Big Parking lot, but the View and trail down to the Beach makes up for it."

Lake activities: Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground offers swimming in warmer shallow waters and boating options. "A boat launch provides water access to anyone looking to play with jet skis, motor boats, or canoes and kayaks. Shallow warmer waters provide for good swimming as well," explains a reviewer familiar with the area.

What campers like

Wildlife viewing: Moose, birds, and other wildlife frequently visit camping areas. At Tustumena Lake, a camper observed: "This place is full of wildlife and is a very cool spot to stay. There were loons calling through the night."

Waterfront access: Tustumena Lake Campground sits directly on the water with boat launch access. One visitor mentioned, "We rv camped and parked in a spot with an outlook over the cliff toward mountains. Only a few spots have views."

Fishing opportunities: Many campers appreciate the diverse fishing options. "Walking distance to some of the best road accessible fishing in Alaska," notes one camper about Centennial Park, while another mentions Johnson Lake is "Stocked by fish and game; the later summer months can provide good fishing for Rainbow Trout."

What you should know

Variable road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful driving. At Kasilof River Special Use Area, campers note: "Be careful driving on the sand especially at low tide it quickly turns to mud flats."

Seasonal facility changes: Most campgrounds have limited facilities in off-seasons. "No bathrooms during off season," reports a Kasilof River visitor, while Clam Gulch campers mention the area operates primarily from May to October.

Privacy considerations: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options than others. Johnson Lake has "walk-in campsites [that] are spacious" according to one visitor, while Centennial Park tends to be "busy on weekends" with sites closer together.

Limited services: Cell coverage and amenities vary significantly. A Tustumena Lake visitor notes "No cell service at sites," and trash disposal can be an issue at some locations where "There are no dumpsters or trash cans here and it shows."

Tips for camping with families

Choose less crowded times: Families report better experiences during weekdays or shoulder seasons. "We stayed for a few nights from midweek" mentions a camper who enjoyed a quieter experience at Tustumena Lake Campground.

Look for day-use amenities: Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins provide additional features for family activities. "The fact that the cabin came with an outdoor fire ring and boat made us want to come back with friends in the summer even more!" shares one cabin visitor.

Watch for wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer wildlife viewing suitable for all ages. "I saw a moose when I got out of my tent in the morning!" reports an excited camper at Johnson Lake State Recreation Area.

Tips from RVers

Be aware of vehicle fees: Some campgrounds charge for additional vehicles. At Centennial Park, a camper warns about "the $23/vehicle/campsite killed the 5 stars this place deserves. Be aware that if you have a towed car or motorcycles with your camper they will charge you."

Plan for limited hookups: Many campgrounds offer basic sites without full services. At Tustumena Lake, RVers report the "campsites have firepits" but limited other amenities, while Johnson Lake has "spots big enough for RV's but no hook ups."

Check campground layout before arrival: Site configurations vary widely. Clam Gulch has "parking spots [that] are very tightly spaced," while other areas like Kasilof River Special Use Area are described as "basically anywhere on the beach where you can find a spot."