Kenai, Alaska sits on the western edge of the Kenai Peninsula where the Kenai River meets Cook Inlet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-65°F with extended daylight hours, while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures often below freezing. The area's camping season generally runs from mid-May through mid-October, with yurt accommodations providing shelter options during shoulder seasons when tent camping becomes challenging.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at Kasilof River: The special use area provides opportunities to observe native wildlife including bald eagles. "It was beautiful, being on the ocean and a short drive or 20 min walk to the popular dipnetting area," notes camper Stacey C., who visited Kasilof River Special Use Area.
Fishing excursions: Kenai's waterways offer premier salmon and trout fishing. "Great fishing guides," shares Cathy B. about Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC, which provides guided trips along with their yurt accommodations that sleep up to four people.
Equipment rentals: Travelers can rent fishing and outdoor gear rather than bringing their own. "You can rent everything from fishing poles and nuts to tent camping equipment and anything you might need for watercraft. They weren't sleeping bags and dry bags," explains Tanya B. about Alaska Canoe and Campground's extensive rental options.
What campers like
Family-friendly activities: The farm setting at Diamond M Ranch Resort offers unique entertainment beyond standard camping. "It is fun filled with animals, bicycle rentals, basketball court, playground, seasonal berry picking, eagles nest close by, caribou viewing, balcony viewing area," says Samantha M., who appreciated the diverse activities for children.
Dipnetting access: The proximity to popular fishing spots makes certain campgrounds strategic bases for fishing expeditions. "The special use area was open for Subsistence fishing - and made for an easy place to camp outside of Kenai. Not really a scenic site, but efficient with trash and porta potties," reports Stephanie Z. about Kasilof River Special Use Area.
Heated yurt options: When temperatures drop, heated yurt camping near Kenai provides comfort while maintaining an outdoor experience. "He offers a cozy yurt for a party of 4. No running water but there is heat!" notes Ashley F. about Cooper Landing Fishing Guide's accommodations.
What you should know
Bathroom availability: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds and by season. "Mainly a large parking lot, no bathrooms this time of year. Beautiful right on the way, be careful driving on the sand especially at low tide it quickly turns to mud flats," warns SJ D. about off-season conditions at Kasilof River.
Beach camping conditions: Coastal camping spots offer waterfront access but present unique challenges. "The weather was great but I imagine it would be rough camping on the beach if windy with flying sand everywhere," cautions Stacey C. about the shoreline camping experience at Kasilof River Special Use Area.
Campsite privacy levels: Many Kenai area campgrounds feature open layouts with limited separation between sites. "There isn't much to privacy at this campground but it has a nice homey atmosphere," notes Samantha M. about the communal setting at Diamond M Ranch Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Choose locations with kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with designated play areas and structured activities. "I preferred the open grass area for the children to run around in without animals. I would recommend this campground to families," advises Samantha M. about Diamond M Ranch Resort.
Plan for variable weather conditions: Alaska's climate can change quickly, so pack layers and rain gear even in summer. "It was beautiful, being on the ocean... The weather was great but I imagine it would be rough camping on the beach if windy," notes Stacey C. about potential weather challenges.
Consider noise levels: Some camping areas can be lively, especially during peak fishing seasons. "A little loud at night with a few raucous drunk people on ATVs. We parked our car in front of our tent as a deterrent," shares Stacey C. about her experience at Kasilof River.
Tips from RVers
Check hookup availability: RV sites at Kenai campgrounds offer varying levels of services. "10 sites will run you $25 RVs 40 and cabins start at $175. This is right off the Sterling highway and impossible to mess it's worth checking out if you're looking at hooking up your RV," explains Tanya B. about Alaska Canoe and Campground.
Consider site locations carefully: Camping areas near Kenai offer different environments from grassy fields to beach parking. "We've stayed once in the paddock area another in the grass area on the other side. I preferred the open grass area for the children to run around in without animals," shares Samantha M. about site selection at Diamond M Ranch Resort.
Book well ahead for summer months: The limited RV camping season (mid-May to mid-October) creates high demand during peak fishing periods. "Most other campers were local with big set ups for the fishing days," notes Stephanie Z. about the popularity of campsites during active fishing seasons.
