Are you planning a tent camping trip to Kenai? We've got you covered. The Dyrt helps you find campsites near Kenai with tent camping. Each tent campsite offers quick access to one or more of Kenai's most popular destinations.
Ranger
Used to party at this lake as a local in the late 90’s early 2000’s.
Nice little tent camping campground. There used to have spots big enough for RV’s but no hook ups.
Legend
Very large RV and tent sites right along the rivers edge. You may wanna reserve during peak fishing season but during the slower times it’s pretty easy to find a spot here.
Legend
This is a campground in Gear rental. You can rent everything from fishing poles and nuts to tent camping equipment and anything you might need for watercraft her. They weren’t sleeping bags and dry bags. 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.
Legend
I don’t hate this RV Park which is saying a lot. There are 60 sites and this RV park is open from May 15 until Labor Day. You can reserve RV and tent sites online but you must call for cabin rentals.. This is right in the heart of Soldotna and close to anything you might have forgotten. 
Ranger
Ninilchick is a cool little town with s fun festival called a Salmon Stock. Camp and watch the sunset on the bay. Get your face painted and have a ice cold beer while listening to Alaskan Artist. The tent sites on the bluff are the prime locations for the views but be prepared for some winds.
Guide
there's not a lot of tent camping available. a lot of parking spaces for day use and motor homes not so much for your tenters. camp hosts though are some of the nicesest I've come across and the state park ranger who makes her rounds is extremely nice and knowledgeable about what's going on around town. the beach itself is among one of the best to spend a day beach combing for shells and sea glass. the beaches in Alaska vary from sand to rocks, clam gulch is for sure one of your sandy beaches. one of the best for clamming when or if it ever opens back up for it. a great spot to spend a day or have a gathering not so much for you're back country camper.
Legend
Fishing, hiking, boating galore. Paved pads with gorgeous sites some right on the water. Tent sites at $5 a night and Standard sites for camper and RV's run $10. This beautiful lake was hit by the Swan Lake fire this year and the campgound has been closed, however we drove through last weekend and the campground survived the fire! Still nicely surrounded with trees for privacy we were very happy to see it undamaged.
Traveler
Was amazed with the beauty and trails in this area. The campsite for tents have to be hiked in to get to. The RV sites can accommodate tent camping, with smaller tents. So many options to do, you easily forget you don’t have cell service. There are trails, lakes, site seeing and enjoying the peace. We saw black bears, mamma and cubs. Very curious cubs got very close, momma didn’t seem to mind or get aggressive. Still be prepared for an encounter for your safety. There were lots of smaller critters we saw/heard and signs of moose. We have plans to visit other lakes, trails and camp sites along this route.
GuideThe stunning lake view and access made the campsite worth dealing with the bugs and bears.
We arrived at Upper Skilak Lake Campground on a sunny Friday afternoon and managed to get the last site available. The campground was packed, including all the RV sites. We ended up in one of the walk-in tent sites. There are a total of 10 walk-in tent sites, with six right on the lake and the rest just a short walk away.
Each campsite is equipped with bear-proof storage for food, which is essential considering the active bear presence in the area. There is enough space for two tents, and the fire pits are new with adjustable grill racks, which made cooking easy. Buckets were provided to safely extinguish fires.
The campsites are a short walk from the parking lot, involving a small hill, except for one (maybe two) handicap-accessible site that offers easier access.
During our stay, we saw black bears and grizzly bears every day. Bear scat was common on the trails and beach, adding to the sense of adventure but also requiring constant vigilance regarding food storage and safety.
The park rangers were friendly and stopped by our site each night to check in and talk about bear sightings. However, one morning, a ranger accompanied by a few volunteers walked into our site while we were eating, which felt somewhat invasive.
The main downside was the state of the bathrooms. They were extremely dirty, with one stall that didn’t lock and another that had no toilet paper. The smell was terrible, and overall, the facilities were not well-maintained.
By the time we left on Monday, we were the only campers remaining, which offered a peaceful end to our stay.
Overall, Upper Skilak Lake Campground offers a beautiful location and a genuine wilderness experience, the poor condition of the bathrooms and significant amount of bugs were the only drawback.
Be prepared for bears and lots of bugs. The lake, the trails, and experience were definitely worth the trip.
Traveler
My family loved our weekend away at the Russian River Campground. It was super easy to make a reservation online (reserve early!), our loop was a short walk to the boardwalk to get down to the river. However, we ended up with a pull through spot that was a pain to get our rig into (26' pull behind). Luckily it was the first spot in the loop so we were able to back it in and have the door open to the footprint and the slide towards the road (friends in 69, the next spot over) had the same issue. Also, if you have a second vehicle it's going to be horrible to park at the site as well (unless you have two smaller vehicles and are tent camping). But we had a massive wheelchair friendly picnic table, a fire pit with a decent size grate and a bear box.
GuideThis camground sits high above Clam Gulch beach. Providing both camping and parking access for the beach below. The mornings and evening can also make for fantastic photo opportunities of the ocean, beach and mountains across the bay.
Clam Gulch beach itself provides tons of photo opportunities especially at low tides, which reveal large sandy flats with sporadic rock outcroppings. The occasional creek or small stream spilling down from the bluffs add to the possibilities. Eagles and other sea birds commonly make appearances as well.
Rock collectors and agate hunters will find plenty to find and pick along the upper beaches. Sea glass and sea shells can also be found along the tidal lines. Others will find tranquility enjoying sImple quiet walks or hikes along the shoreline.
One of my favorite day use areas, i don’t personally camp here often. The shortage, and crowding of the tent camping areas is a turn off for me, as i prefer more separated spaces. The large low tide beaches, photo opportunities, and quiet of the area is huge draw however.
Need to knows
Ranger
Wow. Wow. Wow.
If you love the ocean, salmon fishing, bald eagles, moose and an occasional bear this is the place for you!
All sites are basically in a gravel parking area with painted lines in between sites- tent camping is allowed but I would recommend RV or campers for a restful sleep.
There are state bathrooms ( hole in the ground with a door) and a fresh water pump. No electricity hookups.
In July this Campground is BUZZING! This is the Ninilchik boat launch area for deep sea halibut fishing, it is off the the side before the site so not too loud- just can be congested early morning and afternoon. If your a tide watcher and not a fisherman/ woman that will help determine best time to try to leave the area :)
Deep creek runs down one side - salmon swim up this Creek so July it will be packed with fishing people and an occasional bear. Bald eagles will be standing by to gladly take your fish guts and heads :) and pose for some amazing pics.
Getting an ocean view spot is a dream! Literally backed right up to it and each space has a fire pit and table.
If you get valley side- it's just as stunning! With a few moose trailing through the tall grass. Your GPS will cal this happy valley and that it is!!
Dogs must be on a leash as the camp host will come remind you- often. ( I may or may not know this by experience)
a small store is located at the top in ninilchik- not campsite affiliated- and closes early- so bring what you need. A great stop between Anchorage and Homer!!
Guide
Cooper Creek is a great, smaller campground to choose when the popular nearby spots fill up with anglers. For some reason, this spot is not as in demand as the Russian River campground, despite having many of the same amenities.
This campground is great for group camping trips, as each site is rated for 8 people and a few can have up to 12. There are many ada-acessible sites to choose from as well, which was a great help when bringing along family in need.
The gravel roads can sometimes mean backing-in is a bit more strenuous than other paved campgrounds, but if you're camping in Alaska, you probably already know how to reverse park a camper! Picnic tables were always well maintained, and the deep firepits came in handy for our large fires. They even have grills built in!
Toilets are well maintained, but we always had to supply our own method of handwashing - hand santizer, in our case to leave as little trace as possible.
Don't forget to bring your fishing poles (get that permit first!) and keep an eye out for bear activity.
Guide
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. Walking distance to some of the best road accessible fishing in Alaska.
Guide
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. The Kenai peninsula as a whole is commonly referred to as "the playground of Alaska. 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. 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. The campsites will accommodate anything from tents to large rv's. There is a pump handle on a well onsite for potable water and pit toilets.
Guide
Great base location in the central Kenai Peninsula. Easy commute to Seward, Kenai, Sterling, (1 hour) or Homer (2 hours). Many excellent trails all around the mountain and Kenai and Russian River area where Gwins Lodge and Roadhouse is located. Primitive only. Porta-John. Bring water. Fire wood for sale as well as liquor, beer and wine on-site. MJ 420 store 1 mile east. Fun place with restaurant, bar, store, liquor, to-go foods.
Legend
It's salmon fishing season and you can tell people are staying here to fish the Kenai River, which is great. It was a very convenient campsite off the highway on the way to Homer, in the national forest. only $23 a night to camp or $11.50 if your a senior or have an access pass. Great prize for Alaska, but of course no amenities at site such as water, electric etc. It's a dry spot.
Good size sites and level spots with picnic table and fire pit. Enjoyed our night here ...
LegendSmall but lovely campground on a one way road right on the Kenai river. Sites are spread out, a couple tent spots and a couple of camper spots. There appears to be seven spots and if this is full, you can go just up the road to the next campground.
No electric, water etc but there is a dumpster, picnic tables and fire pits. Across the road is a BBQ spot and a store. You can easily walk to it, just be careful going across road as hwy. Is pretty busy!
LegendRight 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. They have people at the front that collect fees of people coming and goin. Lots of people coming through to use the boat launch, but you can't beat the beautiful turquoise of the Kenai river. Also, a beautiful mile or so trail along the river so people can pay $8 to park for the day. Plenty of restrooms and picnic tables. level camping spots and spots were nice and spread out so you aren't on top of your neighbor.
Also, close to Kenai Wildlife Refuge, a couple minutes away. So check out the visitors center and the trails off the visitors center. Well maintained and scenic!
Legend
No spots to be had on a sunny weekend in the middle of August. This is a very convenient site for fishing on the Kenai.
LegendIf you asked me where my favorite spot in Alaska is, I might just choose the Russian River. Whether you're into the RV life or are looking for a more rugged experience, this campground can satisfy your desires.
A quick 2 hour drive from Anchorage takes you to the campground, a well-paved and serviced series of loops that you'll always feel safe in. We personally preferred the outer edge of the Silver Salmon Loop, though we enjoyed them all. If you're a big fisher, the Red Salmon Loop is your go-to spot for easy access to the river. It isn't hard to find yourself standing with dozens of anglers in the peak season, but if you're not too competitive, theres usually a secluded spot to be found - just watch out for bears trying to swipe your catch of the day!
The grounds have easy access to a number of trails in the Chugach Forest. Try the Russian Lakes Trail if you are interested in a short hike to see salmon jump into the Russian Falls. The Angler's Trail will take you right to the Kenai-Russian River Confluence - one of the most unique sights in the world! And there's both a boat launch and Kenai River ferry nearby if you're willing to go big.
Overall, the Russian River Campground's extra amenities (parking lots, covered bathrooms, provided drinking stations) are a real perk, but you don't have to worry about losing the natural, wild beauty of the Chugach Forest and all of the wildlife that comes with.
ScoutLarge spaces right next to the Kenai River. Easily get to places that do rafting trips and fishing right from your camp site! Beautiful aqua water with mountain views!
TravelerQuick visit while exploring the Kenai peninsula. Clean sites. Lots of bear scat! Have bear spray and keep you food in designated bear proof containers at campground. Close to plenty of lakes and hiking trails.
Guide
This is a beautiful place to camp without having to drive all the way to Kenai or Homer. Trees, water, wildlife... What else do you need! This is a great place to get out of town for a bit.
Legend
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. Most other campers were local with big set ups for the fishing days.
Scout
Hidden lake campground is a family friendly campground. Located on the kenai peninsula, you are sure to see some awesome wildlife. Lots of hiking and water sports at this campground. They have some larger sights for bigger groups and it's a great place to go to get away. Not close to anything, so take anything you might need for you trip!
RangerCentennial 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.
Prices vary from on season to off-- referring to fishing
Kenai river runs swift and strong alongside this Campground.. along with a beautiful boardwalk along that. Feels like your walking on water!
There are parts of the boardwalk that lead straight to the water with metal stairs for access and easy fishing. They have fish cleaning stations and HANDICAP FISHING SPOTS!! And discounts for military- love this!
There is day stay rates and overnight. For day stay it's mainly for fishing- there is also a parking area and open place to fish- we call this time of year "combat" fishing-- shoulder to shoulder--
but the beauty of the river and some treed spaces make this a great place to "fish camp"
state bathrooms, no running water.
We have camped both in high fishing season and early September when an occasional silver will run. This is a quieter time and much more relaxing. There will be fewer people in September as well.
Tent camping near Kenai, Alaska offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning natural landscapes while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities. With well-reviewed campgrounds nearby, you'll find the perfect spot to set up your tent and explore the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Kenai, AK?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Kenai, AK is Lower Skilak Lake Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 8 reviews.
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