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Best Dispersed Camping near Kenai Fjords National Park

15 Reviews

Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area provides free dispersed camping on a large gravel riverbed approximately five minutes from both Seward and the entrance to Kenai Fjords National Park. The entrance can be difficult to spot, located near large boulders beside the road, and requires navigating an initial narrow passage that opens to a spacious camping area. This area accommodates various vehicle sizes, though high-clearance vehicles are recommended for the bumpy gravel terrain.

The area lacks established amenities, with no drinking water, trash service, or permanent toilets, though some reviews mention occasional portable toilets. Campers are limited to a maximum 8-night stay and must pack out all waste. A recent review noted, "There is plenty of space between each party, so it felt relatively private." Cell service is limited or non-existent in many spots. Additional dispersed camping options near Kenai Fjords include Moose Pass, approximately 25 miles from Seward, which offers lakeside camping with mountain views and occasional seaplane activity.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Kenai Fjords National Park (5)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Kenai Fjords National Park

16 Photos of 5 Kenai Fjords National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Kenai Fjords National Park

15 Reviews of 5 Kenai Fjords National Park Campgrounds

  • Les R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Quiet campground with nice views for our mobile sauna rental

    I stayed here with a group of my friends in our sprinter vans for two nights. Campground was quiet both nights. There was plenty of space between each party, so it felt relatively private.

    The little road can be hard to spot, we drove right passed it the first time. Driving from the road is BUMPY, you'll need a vehicle with high clearance.

    We rented mobile saunas, and I highly recommend doing it, it was awesome!! Here is the info: https://sewardsaunas.com/

    Because this is not a formal campground, but rather a special use area, keep the following in mind:

    • you are supposed to stay here a maximum of 8 nights (though I'm not sure how much this enforced)
    • There are no trash or toilets on-site, so plan to pack everything out
    • If you're not sure which areas you can camp, see this map: https://dnr.alaska.gov/mlw/lands/designated-use-areas/exit-glacier-sua/pdf/exit-glacier-map.pdf
  • Tanya B.
    Aug. 14, 2020

    Lost Lake Trailhead

    Need 4x4 for this road. Pack it in, pack it out.

    The road after the sign is rough and a good 4 X 4 or ATV is recommended. This 7-mile hiking trail will take you to Lost Lake. After a 2-mile incline hike the trail opens up and levels off half way in.

    The Forest service recommends that you camp on Lost Lake at designated campsites. This is bear country and some of the camp sites have bear boxes. There are also pit toilets but always pack your own TP. The Forest service ask that backpackers are strongly encouraged not to camp on the Lost Lake peninsulas so that tundra can grow back a reminder that FIRES ARE PROHIBITED in alpine areas.

    Cell Service: at sign Internet: no 2020 Cost: free Distance from Anchorage: 110 miles Bug Factor (1 minimal to 10 too many to enjoy): 4-8 depends on weather

  • Kristi D.
    Aug. 26, 2023

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Super convenient to Kenai Fjords

    Boondocking galore!!! It gets five stars for what it is. Beautiful spots right by the river and five minutes from Seward and shopping one way and five minutes from Kenai Fjords NP the other.

    The entrance comes up quick and has huge rocks blocking part of the road. We blew by it the first time and said no way, but then we pulled over and I ran to see who was camping and surprisingly a bunch of bigger campers etc got back there so we gave it a go and we got thru better than we thought. You just need to take your time!

    Big gravel like space but isn't level so you need to drive slow, but you can find a level spot to camp for the night. No amenities as you are boondocking, but well worth it for the night!!! Highly recommend!!!

  • Kevin H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 12, 2024

    Moose Pass

    Large open area, approx 25 miles from Seward

    Moose Pass Trailhead

    As with most BLM trailheads, zut services. Big area, some shaded mostly unshaded but big enough to have your own space

    Seaplanes take off from lake during the day - pretty awesome

    No onsite services. Seward offers free dump and potable water - near their RV parks

    Starlink, Visible/Verizon and Cricket/Att all good

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 31, 2025

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Quite and Beautiful

    Google maps will take you straight to the entrance. It's a bit hard to see, but you can't miss the massive boulder right next to the road.

    Nice flat area with a lot of areas tucked away if you want privacy.

    There were quite a few people there but everyone kept their distance and were respectful with regard to noise.

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Great dispersed camping in Seward

    Stayed 4 nights 6/4/23. Very close to Seward activities and Exit Glacier - Harding ice field hikes. Area can handle most size rigs. We have small pull behind trailer but had an Airstream and variety of other campers in the area. Entrance is next to a couple of large boulders but is wide enough to get through. Scenery was outstanding with snow covered peaks in all directions. We did see bear tracks and evidence of moose but didn’t see any when we were there. We highly recommend this camping location.

  • EThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 17, 2025

    Moose Pass

    Incredible views

    A great open spot for many vehicles, including big rigs. Some spots are tucked into trees for more privacy while others are open for better Starlink and solar. Some spots right on the water. Right off the road but far enough back that the noise isn’t too bad.

  • K
    Aug. 18, 2022

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Great boondocking on river bed

    This is an awesome spot to hang out when in the Seward area! There is tons area for lots of rigs. The entrance is pretty narrow so it might not be best for anything larger than a truck camper or van.

    In the spot we were at the cell service was almost non existent. We had one tiny bar for AT&T and nothing for Verizon. On a Saturday in July it wasn't busy and everyone could spread out to have their own area.

    It is very close to the National Park and town so it's great before or after a long day exploring

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2025

    Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area

    Beautiful Spot

    We stayed here one night after visiting Seward and Exit Glacier. Definitely a popular spot in mid May but there is a lot of space to spread out and have your own little area. Would suggest having a higher clearance vehicle but there are some spots right at the front that you could get a smaller vehicle to.

Guide to Kenai Fjords National Park

Dispersed camping near Kenai Fjords National Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Alaska's stunning wilderness without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities, these spots are perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Scenic Views and Outdoor Adventures while free camping near Kenai Fjords National Park

  • The Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area provides ample space for camping with incredible views of snow-capped peaks and the nearby river, making it a fantastic base for exploring the park.
  • Campers at Moose Pass can enjoy a peaceful lakeside experience, where seaplanes take off and land, adding a unique touch to your stay while being just a short drive from Seward.
  • Those who venture to Portage Glacier Road will find themselves surrounded by stunning landscapes, perfect for hiking and photography, all while enjoying the freedom of dispersed camping.

Dispersed campers should check out Exit Glacier Road

  • Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area is well-reviewed for its spaciousness and the opportunity to rent a mobile sauna, enhancing your camping experience with a touch of luxury.
  • Accessing the site may require a vehicle with high clearance due to bumpy roads, but the effort is rewarded with a serene atmosphere and plenty of room to spread out.
  • Keep in mind that there are no amenities, so it's essential to pack out all trash and be prepared for a true back-to-nature experience.

Hiking and Wildlife Watching for dispersed campers

  • The Lost Lake Trailhead offers a challenging hike that leads to beautiful views of Lost Lake, making it a great spot for those looking to combine camping with outdoor exploration.
  • While camping here, be aware that it's bear country, so it's crucial to follow safety guidelines and use bear boxes at designated campsites.
  • The area is known for its wildlife, and hikers may encounter moose and other animals, adding excitement to your outdoor adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the seasonal restrictions for dispersed camping in Kenai Fjords National Park?

Dispersed camping in and around Kenai Fjords National Park is primarily a summer activity with most areas accessible from May through September. Weather conditions make winter camping challenging, with snow often blocking access to roads and camping areas. The Portage Glacier Road dispersed camping areas may close earlier in the season due to their elevation and snowfall patterns. No specific seasonal closure dates are enforced at most dispersed sites, but practical access becomes difficult once snow accumulates. Always check current conditions before heading out, especially during shoulder seasons when weather can change rapidly. Some access roads may be rough outside peak summer months, requiring high-clearance vehicles.

Is dispersed camping allowed near Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed near Exit Glacier, but not within the immediate Exit Glacier area of Kenai Fjords National Park. The Lost Lake Trailhead provides dispersed camping opportunities in a parking lot area outside the trailhead with bathroom facilities. The Forest Service recommends camping at designated sites at Lost Lake itself after hiking in. For those wanting to stay closer to Exit Glacier without hiking, Portage Valley offers dispersed options a reasonable distance away. Remember that all these options are outside the national park boundaries, as true dispersed camping within the park itself is limited.

Where can I find dispersed camping in Kenai Fjords National Park?

The most popular dispersed camping option near Kenai Fjords is the Exit Glacier Road Designated Special Use Area, which offers spacious boondocking about five minutes from Seward and the national park entrance. Look for the entrance next to large boulders (it can be easy to miss). The area accommodates various rig sizes on flat, gravelly terrain with plenty of space between campers for privacy. Another option is Moose Pass, which provides dispersed camping at a trailhead with views of seaplanes taking off from the nearby lake. No services are available at these locations, though Seward offers free dump stations and potable water.

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