M
Marcus H.
Guide
GuideCaptain Cook State Recreation Area Discovery Campground
Quiet location
Great place to go explore the beach at low tides. Excellent views
Camping near Kenai, AK
85 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Kenai's camping areas draw many fishermen during salmon runs, with spots like Hidden Lake giving campers plenty of space between sites. The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge has campgrounds where you might spot moose or bears while setting up your tent. You'll need to store food properly in this area to keep wildlife away from your campsite. Many places have fire rules that change throughout the summer, so it's smart to check what's allowed before you go. During July and August, you should book sites ahead of time since good spots fill up fast. Dori S campground works well if you're bringing kids along, with enough to keep them busy. Fishing is the main draw for most people camping around Kenai, with several rivers and lakes within easy reach. Hiking trails run through much of the area, ranging from short walks to longer treks. Some activities require permits, which you can usually get at ranger stations or visitor centers. Competition for the best camping spots gets tough in summer, especially on weekends. May and September camping means fewer people and often better fishing. The Kenai area combines mountains, forests, and coastal views all within short drives, making it ideal for campers seeking diverse landscapes. Most campers come for specific activities rather than just to relax at their sites. Remember to clean up completely when you leave to keep the area nice for others. With good timing and the right gear, camping near Kenai can be straightforward and rewarding.
Best Campgrounds near Kenai (85)
1. Centennial Park & Campground
"If you’re looking for a campground with access to the Kenai River, and walk distance to downtown Soldotna, this is it. Typical Alaskan camping...no hookups, but nicely wooded and mostly private."
"Right on the Kenai river with a campground and boat launch. Tons of stores etc in Soldotkna minutes away to include a laundry mat five minutes away. Road in is dirt and in good condition."
from $21 - $26 / night
Check Availability2. Diamond M Ranch Resort
"It is fun filled with animals, bicycle rentals, basketball court, playground, seasonal berry picking, eagles nest close by, caribou viewing, balcony viewing area, fire rings and fishing is nearby in the"
"Additional campsites are available in the pasture during Dip Net season (July 10-31) for Alaska residents. The office/store is a recreation of Gold Rush-era buildings from various towns in Alaska."
from $149 / night
Check Availability3. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
"I can't say enough about my stay at Kelly Lake Cabin of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabin."
"The lake is very private."
from $45 - $55 / night
Check Availability4. Captain Cook State Recreation Area
"Just when you thought you have seen all the simple road system of Alaska.. turn right on Kenai Spur Road and go to the end.. literally. There you find a hidden treasure, few find!"
"Tucked away off the main Kenai Peninsula roads, Captain Cook SP sees fewer visitors and offers campers a nice quiet way to spend a few days."
5. Morgans Landing State Rec Area
"Our campsite had an area for the camper then a space for the fire/table and kids running around. Bathroom locations were close and convenient."
6. Klondike RV Park & Cottages
7. K-Beach Campground and Storage
"The bathroom situation could use some work since it is an old place, but they were clean."
8. Mackey Lake RV and Cabins
"NO HOOKUPS but great location across the street from TALON AIR for Bear and Fishing trips. Close to town. Fred Meyer 3 miles away, river 4 miles away. Kenai 15 miles away."
from $60 / night
9. Lone Moose Lodge and RV Park
from $25 - $349 / night
Check Availability10. River Terrace Campground
"You can call and check to see when there running or you can just check with Alaska Fish and Game. When they’re running in the thousands it’s pretty much full so you would need to reserve ahead."
Drive Time
- 13 hrs 56 min from Fairbanks, AK
Recent Camping Photos near Kenai, AK
23 Photos of 85 Kenai Campgrounds
Vera G.
Centennial Park & Campground
Tanya B.
Klondike RV Park & Cottages
Glenys M.
Swiftwater Park & Campground
Stacey C.
Kasilof River Special Use Area
Tanya B.
Morgans Landing State Rec Area
Aimee H.
Captain Cook State Recreation Area
Samantha F.
Discovery Campground Capt. Cook State Park Campground
Valerie K.
Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground
Molly B.
Lower Skilak Lake Campground
Valerie S.
Lower Ohmer Lake Campground
Jennifer W.
Hidden Lake Campground
Tanya B.
Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Recent Reviews near Kenai, AK
195 Reviews of 85 Kenai Campgrounds
Lee D.
LegendDiamond M Ranch Resort
Family Fun!
General: RV sites, bunkhouse, tent camping, cabins, and historical suites. Additional campsites are available in the pasture during Dip Net season (July 10-31) for Alaska residents. The office/store is a recreation of Gold Rush-era buildings from various towns in Alaska. Sites are FHU.
Site Quality: Sites are mostly level. Some are gravel, and some are dirt. We were traveling in a caravan, and many of us had buddy sites (I believe this was to accommodate the influx for dip net season). This was not a problem as we used our 110 extension cord to convert to 30-amp for power. The sites are close together; some have trees providing privacy/separation, but not all of them.
Bath/Shower: There are four all-in-one (toilet, sink, shower) units plus laundry in our area of the campground (there is another bathhouse/laundry in another part of the campground). Again, because of the crowds for dip net, there was often a wait for a bathroom, and soap and/or paper towels would run out before the day was over. Not everyone heeded the signs asking campers to make sure shower curtains are closed to prevent flooding!
Activities/Amenities: The main amenity is the petting zoo and Matti’s farm tour on Saturday mornings ($5/per person for registered guests or $10 for community members; 50% of the proceeds go to their non-profit Mattis’s Farm, and the other 50% goes toward feeding the animals and permaculture education). At the end of the tour, you can interact with the animals (emus, chickens, goats, rabbits, a turkey). Ronna also leads guided hikes. One of Ronna and Blair’s daughters makes giant and delicious cinnamon rolls from her grandfather’s recipe on Fridays and Saturdays for a donation. There is a viewing deck open 24 hours/day and, on a clear day, you can see views of four of the peaks of the Ring of Fire. There is basketball, pickleball, a playground, and bike rentals. Free WiFi, although the signal is not strong. Also, a fish cleaning station.
It is obvious that Blair and Ronna and their family members are passionate about Diamond M. Blair and Ronna lead the farm tours, and during our stay, we saw one or both of them around the property.
Kellan K.
ScoutCentennial Park & Campground
Great app
Anyone that is into the outdoors from rudimentary camping to RV lifestyle it is perfect
- LLynde T.Guide
Deep Creek Recreation Area
Deep Creek Beach Campground
Really enjoyed staying here. First come, first serve. Alaska DNR campground, $20/night. No amenities other than vault toilets, water pump and dumpsters. Several sites, all seem to be back-in. All have picnic table and fire ring. Sites are generally level and easy to access. Several sites right off the beach. We stayed at a site in the back area, right next to the creek. Our motorhome windshield is facing the dunes with a fantastic view of bald eagle hang out. There’s generally 10-20+ eagles at any time and we’ve even seen golden eagles. The beach is a short walk and located next to the Deep Creek Boat Launch, where tractors launch boats in and out. Highly recommend watching. It’s truly gorgeous here.
Ricky R.GuideDeep Creek Recreation Area
Right on the Cook Inlet Beach Front
Parking lot style state campground with multiple sites for any size rig. Gets busy at times but never filled up while we were there. Good Eagle viewing. Good for tents as well.
- LLaura C.Scout
Moose Crossing RV & Food Truck Park
Adorable
The camp host was so kind and helped us get situated. It’s a quaint and beautiful site.
Connie B.GuideNinilchik View Campground
Primitive camping with a view
This is one of our favorite spots so far on our trip. There isn’t any electricity or water on site but there is a well where you can pump fresh water and a dump station. The campy is positioned on a bluff over looking the beach , water of Turn Again Arm and the mountains on the other side. It is quite windy. Beautiful views! There is are stairs leading down to the beach. We stayed a week. The spots are small so doesn’t accommodate large campers/or class A busses.
- VValerie K.
TravelerJohnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground
Beautiful Tent Spot
We got one of the walk in tent sites and it was a beautiful quiet spot away from all the RV’s and campers. We got to listen to the Loons and frogs on the lake.
- ttiffany T.Traveler
Tustumena Lake
Right on the lake
Stopped for an overnight on way to Homer. Stayed at the campsite right beside the boat launch. Beautiful very large spot with fire pit . Saw a moose swimming and an eagle
Guide to Kenai
Camping spots near Kenai, Alaska feature diverse terrains from wooded campsites to scenic riverfront locations along the Kenai River. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-70°F, though evening temperatures can drop significantly even in July. Most campgrounds have fire pits, though restrictions change throughout the season depending on fire danger levels.
What to do
Fishing at Centennial Park: Located in Soldotna, this campground offers direct access to the Kenai River. "Great family weekend campground and is right on the river providing amazing fishing opportunities. This campground is huge! So lots of trails and boardwalks to ride bikes, walk dogs, get out and explore," writes Vanessa R. about Centennial Park & Campground.
Beach exploration: Captain Cook State Recreation Area offers unique tidal experiences. "Hiking trails lead throughout the campground and down to the beach where you could walk for miles if you wanted. The views of Cook Inlet and the mountains of the western shore are stunning on clear days and the sunsets were incredible," notes Shari G. about Captain Cook State Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: Keep your eyes open for local wildlife near camping areas. "You can pick a camping spot near the bluff or more in the woods. Near people or secluded. Perfect for everyone," shares GABRIELLE P. about her experiences at Captain Cook State Recreation Area. Many campers report seeing eagles, and occasionally moose or bears, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Morgans Landing provides a peaceful riverside setting. "The rushing river was loud but relaxing. The camp host alone was worth the stay and super helpful/pleasant. Our campsite had an area for the camper then a space for the fire/table and kids running around," explains Samantha M. from Morgans Landing State Rec Area.
Privacy between sites: Many camping areas offer natural separation between campsites. "The campsites are rustic and small, with just a few able to serve larger rigs. The road through the campground is winding and hilly so we'd recommend not bringing a long 5th wheel or bus in here," advises BigRed Overlander about Morgans Landing State Rec Area.
Access to water recreation: Several campgrounds provide boat access or water activities. "Great cabin. Only a 1 mile hike in and it comes with a row boat. The lake is very private," reports Bart R. about Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins.
What you should know
Seasonal crowds: Expect busy conditions during peak salmon runs. "Centennial Campground in Soldotna Alaska will be bursting at the seams in June and July. Fishing season will be in full swing and getting a spot may be tricky- as they take no reservations- but WORTH IT! Especially if you like to fish," says Aimee H.
Vehicle fees: Some campgrounds charge per vehicle. "Beautiful campground. Clean facilities. BUT 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 even though you are in one site," warns Justin B. about Centennial Park.
Bears and wildlife safety: Proper food storage is essential in this area. "There are fresh water pumps and state bathrooms. Where there are fish there are bears... so be bear aware. Carry bear spray, keep food in your car or do the triangle food hang and keep a clean camp site," recommends Aimee H. about Captain Cook State Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly spaces: Look for campgrounds with open areas for play. "The campground offers amazing views of Cook Inlet, a secluded location, and quietness. Days can be spent hiking, fishing out of the mouth of the Swanson River, and exploring the beach; which is best done during low tide," shares Allen W. about Captain Cook State Recreation Area.
Animal attractions: Some campgrounds offer unique wildlife encounters. "For starters my children love this campground. It is fun filled with animals, bicycle rentals, basketball court, playground, seasonal berry picking, eagles nest close by, caribou viewing, balcony viewing area, fire rings and fishing is nearby in the Kenai River," explains Samantha M. about Diamond M Ranch Resort.
Easy access sites: For families with young children, consider locations with amenities close by. "Bathroom locations were close and convenient. We did the river trail hike which was fun but didn't time the fishing right for this trip," notes Samantha M. about Morgans Landing State Rec Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many RV campgrounds in the area have varied site types. "There are lots of trees and the drive is beautiful so if you're looking for an RV site this is a good choice," reports Tanya B. about Klondike RV Park & Cottages.
Solar power challenges: Tree cover can affect solar systems. "The forest canopy made it a bit of a challenge for our solar system, but our portable solar suitcase was able to make up the difference by periodically moving it around to the sunny spot," shares Shari G. about Captain Cook State Recreation Area.
Limited big rig access: Larger RVs may have difficulty at some sites. "The road going back to the campground and in the campground was sometimes a bit rough," warns Delaine N., which is important to consider when bringing larger rigs to many Kenai Peninsula camping locations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there vehicle accessible campgrounds at Kenai North Beach?
Are there vehicle accessible campgrounds at Kenai North Beach?
While Kenai North Beach itself doesn't have designated vehicle campgrounds, nearby Captain Cook State Recreation Area provides excellent vehicle-accessible camping at the end of Kenai Spur Road. This hidden gem offers beachfront camping with sites suitable for various vehicles. Another option is Centennial Park & Campground, which provides vehicle access and is located on the Kenai River. The access road is dirt but maintained in good condition, making it suitable for most vehicles. Both locations offer the coastal experience many visitors seek when looking for Kenai beach camping.
Where can I find free camping on the Kenai Peninsula?
Where can I find free camping on the Kenai Peninsula?
Tustamena Lake Campground is a great free campground within reach of Soldotna on the Kenai Peninsula. This is an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers who still want access to the peninsula's world-class fishing opportunities without the high fees often associated with the area. Another option is Gwins Lodge, which offers primitive camping in a central Kenai Peninsula location. While primitive (bring your own water and expect only porta-john facilities), it provides an affordable base with easy commuting distance to Seward, Kenai, Sterling, and Homer, making it perfect for exploring the entire peninsula.
What campgrounds are available in Kenai?
What campgrounds are available in Kenai?
The Kenai area offers diverse camping options. Cooper Creek North Campground provides riverside camping for $23/night ($11.50 for seniors) with privacy and proximity to the Kenai River, making it popular during salmon fishing season. Bing's Landing offers spacious campsites adjacent to the Kenai River with a launch ramp and fishing boardwalks. Other options include Upper Skilak Lake Campground with clean sites near lakes and hiking trails (but be bear aware), and several RV parks like K-Beach Campground and Klondike RV Park for those needing more amenities.
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