Tustamena Lake Campground and Mariner Park provide equestrian-friendly camping options for visitors in the Kasilof, Alaska region. Both locations connect to trail systems and beach areas where horses can be ridden during appropriate conditions. The Kasilof area sits at the western edge of the Kenai Peninsula, with elevations near sea level along the coast rising to several hundred feet inland. Weather conditions change rapidly, affecting both riding and camping conditions.
What to do
Beach riding at sunset: Mariner Park includes a day use area where local riders bring horses to enjoy shoreline riding during lower tide periods. "We are in the shoulder season and most camps on the spit are closed. This one has beautiful views of the bay and there weren't many people here the night we stayed. Some people brought their horses to the day use side and were riding at sunset," notes Mariner Park visitor MacKensie C.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides numerous wildlife spotting opportunities, especially along waterways. "Moose roam through the campground. Beautiful views of the river, flowers, and tons of different birds," reports Michael H. about his stay at Tustamena Lake Campground.
Fishing access: The Kasilof area offers multiple fishing opportunities from campgrounds with boat access. "Camped here many times, but it's been 15 years plus. Not much to the site, but your right on the river. Does have a boat launch, so you can get to the lake via river. Nice sized lake. Good fishing," explains Michael V. about the Tustamena Lake area.
What campers like
Affordable waterfront camping: Cost-conscious travelers appreciate the reasonable rates compared to other Alaskan destinations. "A lot of people spend alot of money just to GET to this part of Alaska to go halibut and salmon fishing, only to be hit with high campground, charter, and access fees. This is a great free campground within reach of Soldotna Ak," reports George B. about Tustamena Lake Campground.
Beachcombing opportunities: The shoreline location provides access to extensive beach exploration. "There are so many things to find at the city campground. Toilets are open seasonally. 34 campsites, day use area, and a gazebo to rent. They are always looking toward improvements. This is a great place to camp and spend the day beach combing," notes Tanya B. about her experience at Mariner Park.
Relative seclusion: Some equestrian-friendly sites offer more privacy than others in the region. "My wife and I and our 3 kids used to come here often to get away from the crowds during the summer tourist season. There is also boat access to a number of first come forest service cabins on the lake," shares George B. about Alaska Adventure Cabins.
What you should know
Weather and wind challenges: The coastal location means weather can change rapidly and affect camping comfort. "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. It was definitely a gorgeous view, and if we had known what to expect it might not have been so bad!" cautions Katie S. about her Mariner Park stay.
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access roads to horse-friendly campgrounds require advance planning. "The road through the campground should be checked before you drive through. Some parts would not be passable for an RV during our visit," warns Michael H. about Tustamena Lake Campground.
Limited facilities at some locations: Amenities vary widely between established campgrounds and dispersed sites. "Young people seem to come out here to party for the evening and then leave, and leave their trash. We only had this one night. There are no dumpsters or trash cans here and it shows," notes Michael H. about the maintenance challenges at some sites.
Tips for camping with families
Beach exploration for kids: The tidal changes create opportunities for children to discover marine life. "The sand is great and 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," recommends Staci J. about camping at Mariner Park with children.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families appreciate the natural setting for educational opportunities. "We stayed for a few nights from midweek. There are 9 large campsites that can accommodate RVs and small groups. There are fire rings, a vault toilet, and a launch ramp into the river," explains Michael H. about the family-friendly setup at Tustamena Lake.
Cleanliness considerations: Facilities maintenance varies seasonally. "Great place friendly staff supper clean and just all around wonderful stay great prices," notes Joe C. about his family's experience at Alaska Adventure Cabins.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing for vehicles with horse trailers: RVers pulling horse trailers need adequate space for multiple vehicles. "The campsites will accommodate anything from tents to large RVs. There is a pump handle on a well onsite for potable water and pit toilets," advises George B. about the spacious setup at Tustamena Lake Campground.
Seasonal campground access: Not all horse-friendly campgrounds remain open year-round. "This is my family's 3rd year camping on the Homer Spit. We love it every year. Who wouldn't love waking up and going to sleep looking at the ocean?! It does get a bit windy, but it keeps away the famous Alaskan mosquitoes," shares Staci J. about the seasonal advantages at Mariner Park.
Water and utility access: Plan accordingly for limited hookups at most horse campgrounds near Kasilof. "Great access to popular fishing. The road in can be very washboard at times because there is a popular boat launch here for fishing sockeye salmon on the Kasilof river, and silver salmon fishing in a creek that flows into the lake," notes George B. about the practical considerations for RV access.
