Best Dispersed Camping near Kasilof, AK

Tustumena Lake and Caribou Hills Recreation Area provide primitive dispersed camping options near Kasilof, Alaska. Tustumena Lake features individual sites with firepits and a boat ramp for lake access. Camping is permitted in designated areas along the access road and at the end of the road. Caribou Hills Recreation Area, managed by Alaska's Department of Natural Resources, allows camping throughout the designated recreation zone, including sites near creeks and on hilltops offering scenic views.

Access to these dispersed camping areas varies seasonally. Tustumena Lake sites can become muddy during wet periods, potentially requiring vehicles with higher clearance. No drinking water is available at either location, and visitors should prepare to pack out all trash and supplies. While fires are permitted at Tustumena Lake campsites, they are prohibited in the Caribou Hills Recreation Area. Cellular service is unavailable at Tustumena Lake sites, requiring campers to plan communications accordingly. Caribou Hills follows standard pack-in, pack-out principles with no on-site facilities.

The Kasilof region's dispersed campsites provide opportunities for wildlife observation and outdoor recreation. Tustumena Lake campers report abundant wildlife, including loons that can be heard calling throughout the night. Caribou Hills offers seasonal foraging opportunities for fungi and berries, plus hunting for bear and moose in designated seasons. The area's natural setting provides isolation from developed areas. According to one visitor, "This place is full of wildlife and is a very cool spot to stay." Another camper notes that Caribou Hills features "amazing views" from the higher elevation camping spots.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Kasilof, Alaska (2)

Show More
Showing results 1-2 of 2 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Kasilof, AK

4 Photos of 2 Kasilof Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kasilof, AK

3 Reviews of 2 Kasilof Campgrounds


  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 2, 2024

    Tustumena Lake

    Nice Spot

    This is a small campground with individual sites. It has a lake with boat ramp access and is used frequently, during summer months. Campsites have firepits. Some sites can be quite muddy to get to. Very nice. No cell service at sites.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2025

    Tustumena Lake

    Great Spot

    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.

  • AKExplorer G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Caribou Hills Recreation Area Dispersed

    Great Camping Area

    You can camp anywhere in the DNR Recreational Area out in The Hills. Camp by the creek or up on one of the hills with amazing views. Wonderful area for foraging fungi and harvesting berries. Great Bear and Moose hunting area.

    Please, Pack it in, Pack it out.


Guide to Kasilof

Primitive camping near Kasilof, Alaska provides opportunities for self-sufficient outdoor recreation in the Kenai Peninsula. The area features spruce forests, rolling hills, and wetlands at elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 3,000 feet in the Caribou Hills. Weather patterns can shift rapidly, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45-65°F and frequent precipitation possible even during peak camping season.

What to do

Wildlife photography opportunities: Tustumena Lake camping areas offer excellent wildlife viewing during dawn and dusk hours. According to Joseph W., "This place is full of wildlife and is a very cool spot to stay. There were loons calling through the night."

Fishing access: Tustumena Lake provides boat ramp access for anglers targeting lake trout, Dolly Varden, and salmon depending on seasonal runs. "This is a small campground with individual sites. It has a lake with boat ramp access and is used frequently during summer months," notes Bonnie P.

Seasonal harvesting: The surrounding wilderness areas offer seasonal foraging opportunities. At Caribou Hills Recreation Area Dispersed, visitors can find "Wonderful area for foraging fungi and harvesting berries. Great Bear and Moose hunting area," according to AKExplorer G.

What campers like

Individual site layout: The Tustumena Lake camping area features distinct sites with basic amenities. Bonnie P. mentions, "Campsites have firepits. Some sites can be quite muddy to get to. Very nice."

Natural soundscape: The remote location provides natural ambiance without urban noise pollution. Multiple campers note the distinctive calls of loons across Tustumena Lake, which can be heard throughout evening hours.

Flexible camping options: Caribou Hills Recreation Area allows for personalized site selection based on terrain preference. "You can camp anywhere in the DNR Recreational Area out in The Hills. Camp by the creek or up on one of the hills with amazing views," shares AKExplorer G.

What you should know

Communication limitations: Prepare for complete disconnection from cellular networks in many areas. As noted in reviews, "No cell service at sites" at Tustumena Lake, requiring alternative communication plans or devices for emergencies.

Access conditions: Road conditions to primitive camping areas near Kasilof vary seasonally, with spring and fall presenting challenges. Some Tustumena Lake sites become difficult to access during wet periods, potentially requiring vehicles with adequate ground clearance.

Fire regulations: Rules regarding campfires differ between locations. While permitted at Tustumena Lake campsites with established fire rings, fires are prohibited throughout Caribou Hills Recreation Area, requiring alternative cooking methods.

Tips for camping with families

Site selection priorities: When camping with children at Tustumena Lake, choose sites farther from the lake edge for safety while maintaining visibility of water areas from your camp.

Wildlife awareness: Establish clear guidelines for children regarding wildlife encounters. The abundant wildlife mentioned in reviews requires proper food storage and waste management to prevent attracting animals to your campsite.

Activity planning: The lack of developed recreation facilities means family camping requires self-directed activities. Bring games, field guides, and exploration tools to engage children with the natural surroundings.

Tips from RVers

Limited facilities: No hookups or dump stations exist at primitive camping areas near Kasilof. Arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks, prepared for completely self-contained camping.

Size restrictions: Larger RVs face significant challenges accessing some dispersed sites, particularly at Tustumena Lake where narrow access roads and potential soft ground conditions limit vehicle size and weight.

Leveling considerations: Bring substantial leveling blocks when camping at Caribou Hills, as the hillside terrain can present steep angles for parking, especially at sites positioned for scenic views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed along the Kasilof River?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed along certain sections of the Kasilof River. The river area offers several undeveloped spots where you can camp, primarily near the river mouth and along accessible shorelines. While not directly on the river, Tustumena Lake provides dispersed camping opportunities in the vicinity with lake access and boat ramps. The best river camping spots are typically found by locals and experienced anglers, especially during salmon fishing season. Always check current Alaska Department of Fish and Game regulations before setting up camp as some areas may have seasonal restrictions during peak fishing periods.

What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Kasilof?

When dispersed camping in Kasilof, follow the "Pack it in, Pack it out" principle to maintain the natural environment. Stay limited to 14 days in most public land areas before needing to relocate. Campfires are generally permitted in established fire rings, but always check current fire restrictions as they can change seasonally. At sites like Tustumena Lake, fire pits are provided at individual camping spots. Be prepared for no cell service in many dispersed areas. Respect wildlife by storing food properly and maintaining safe distances. For camping in peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), arrive early as popular areas fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays.

Where can I find dispersed camping spots in Kasilof, Alaska?

Kasilof offers several dispersed camping areas for outdoor enthusiasts. The Caribou Hills Recreation Area Dispersed provides extensive opportunities where you can camp anywhere within the DNR Recreational Area. You'll find excellent spots near creeks or up on hills with panoramic views, perfect for wildlife watching, foraging, and berry picking. Additional dispersed camping can be found along access roads to Kasilof's waterways. Look for established pull-offs and clearings that show signs of previous use. During holiday weekends like Memorial Day, arrive early as the most desirable spots fill quickly, especially those with water access or scenic views.