Tent camping near Kenai Fjords National Park provides access to one of Alaska's most diverse ecosystems where the Harding Icefield feeds numerous glaciers that flow into coastal fjords. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-70°F with frequent rainfall averaging 70 inches annually. Campgrounds in this area range from primitive walk-in sites to established facilities with bear-resistant food storage, each offering unique access to wilderness areas.
What to do
Hike to Fort McGilvray: Take the trail from North Beach at Caines Head State Rec Area to explore abandoned WWII structures. "From the campground, we hiked up to explore the abandoned WWII fort, Fort McGilvray. Super interesting and much bigger than I expected!" notes Les R.
Wildlife viewing from camp: Many sites offer excellent wildlife observation opportunities without leaving your campsite. "We saw a whale from our camp, tons of seals, porpoises, and beautiful birds. There were bald eagles, ravens, and Stellar's jays," reports a camper at North Beach.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Lower Skilak Lake Campground provides access to excellent fishing. "This is a good short weekend trip from Anchorage with some great fishing on the lake or in the rivers nearby for some salmon," states Jonathan V.
Sea kayaking: Paddle the protected waters near North Beach for unique views of coastal features. "Paddle around the headland to the south beach and you'll find sheer rocky cliffs and sea arches -- in good weather this is simply stunning," shares Shari G.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Exit Glacier Campground, sites are well-spaced. "The sites aren't very far from the car and the food storage/shelter/eating area isn't far from the car either. The further in you camp, the more privacy you score," notes Stacey C.
Strategic location: Many campers appreciate Exit Glacier's proximity to major attractions. "Short drive from Seward (which has grocery, general store, etc) and you're at this glacier with hiking and a small primitive campground," explains Dan N.
Bear-safe facilities: Campers value the bear protection measures. "Park rangers patrol regularly, which is both a nuisance (when they woke my husband asking him if he had food in his tent) and an excellent safety feature considering how frequently bears are encountered in the area," writes Joy W.
Free camping options: Budget-minded visitors appreciate no-fee sites. "There is not charge for these spots and most have picnic tables and are right on the shore of the lake. Pit toilets are well maintained," reports Tanya B. about Lower Skilak Lake.
What you should know
Tide-dependent access: For Tonsina Point at Caines Head, timing is critical. "To access Caines Head after Tonsina, one MUST pay attention to the tide tables and can only safely pass the shoreline at low tide. We arrived late in the day, and low tide was at 7am the next day," cautions Stacey C.
Transportation options: Water taxis provide alternative access to coastal sites. "You have two options for getting here: 1. Hiking in, which we did on the way in. 2. Water taxi, which we did on the way back. The water taxi that we took was priced was $50 one-way," shares Les R.
Bring your own supplies: Most sites require self-sufficiency. "No running water but there's a gorgeous stream nearby for filtering," notes a Tonsina Point review. Another adds, "There is a long drop toilet but NO toilet paper."
Temperature variations: The higher elevation campgrounds experience significant temperature drops. "The campsite is at quite an elevation so is chilly at night and early morning even in the summer," warns a camper at Coeur D'Alene Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible trails: Some areas offer family-friendly hiking options. "My 5 and 7 year olds did the walk just fine from parking lot to the glacier (maybe 20 min). There is a one mile wheelchair accessible trail loop with views of the glacier," recommends Samantha M.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitoes can be intense during summer months. "There wasn't any wind and the mosquitos were INSANE! Bring your bugspray and a headnet," advises an Exit Glacier camper.
Consider tent platforms: For families seeking more comfort, North Beach offers wooden platforms. "There are a few brand new wooden platforms that we set one of our tents up on, but there are lots of sites both in the woods a little way for wind protection but also along the beach," describes Stacey C.
Seek wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids enjoy spotting animals from safe distances. "The campground was having a problem with bears in the area. The bear storage bin had recently been attacked sporting huge dents and claw scratches," reports a visitor, highlighting the importance of teaching children proper wilderness awareness.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Kenai Fjords have restricted RV access. "Small campground only 9 sites, no host so pack in your wood. This poor campground needs some road work, lots of pot holes and short sites so large rigs won't fit here," warns Shadara W. about Crescent Creek.
Weight restrictions: Access roads may have limitations. "You pass over three one lane bridges with a max of 10 tons allowed," notes a Crescent Creek reviewer.
Solar options: Some sites provide better positioning for power generation. "There are a few spots great for solar and Starlink. Others are in trees," shares James B. about Lower Skilak Lake.
Connectivity considerations: Cell service is limited or nonexistent. "There is not charge for these spots and most have picnic tables and are right on the shore of the lake. Pit toilets are well maintained but is always suggest bring your own toilet paper because you just never know," advises Tanya B., adding "No cell service so bring a book."
