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The Kenai Peninsula surrounding Kenai, Alaska offers several tent camping options with pristine wilderness settings. Lower Skilak Lake Campground in Cooper Landing provides dedicated walk-in tent sites that require a short hike to access, while Deep Creek North in Ninilchik accommodates tent campers with sites available from May through September. Both locations offer primitive tent camping experiences with varying levels of amenities and access to Alaska's renowned fishing waters, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tent campsites at Lower Skilak Lake feature basic amenities including pit toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground operates year-round, though winter access may require additional preparation. Deep Creek North provides tent-only areas on gravel surfaces with state-maintained pit toilets and fresh water pumps available. Campers should bring their own toilet paper as supplies can be unreliable. Cell service is minimal or non-existent at these locations, particularly at Lower Skilak Lake. The wind at Deep Creek North is constant, requiring proper gear for comfortable tent camping. Both locations have varying road conditions, with Lower Skilak Lake occasionally requiring navigation of muddy, rough roads.
According to reviews, tent campers at Lower Skilak Lake frequently observe wildlife including black bears, moose, and smaller forest creatures. One visitor noted that "the campsite for tents have to be hiked in to get to," providing additional separation from other campers. The backcountry tent camping experience includes access to numerous hiking trails and lakeside recreation. Deep Creek North offers tent campers ocean views and beach access, though the area becomes busy during peak fishing season in July. Campers report that despite activity during daylight hours, nights remain quiet. The natural setting provides opportunities for beachcombing, wildlife viewing, and spectacular sunsets over Cook Inlet with Mt. Iliamna as a backdrop, making these locations popular choices for tent camping near Kenai.
"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."
"There is not charge for these spots and most have picnic tables and are right on the shore of the lake."
"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."
TravelerStayed on aug 16 after leaving Homer. Was great to have a campsite with an ocean view! The campsite has a pit toilet, dumpster, and water spout. The water spout is rusty so the water has a bad taste though.
GuideThis campground is small and quiet with gorgeous views of the water from some sites. Sites are well maintained and tons of beautiful fireweed this time of year. Love the stairs that lead down to the beach!
GuideGreat place to go explore the beach at low tides. Excellent views
LegendGeneral: 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.
ScoutAnyone that is into the outdoors from rudimentary camping to RV lifestyle it is perfect
RangerThis 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.
TravelerWe 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.
GuideStopped 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
ScoutThe Alaskan Dream turned into the Alaskan Nightmare! Do not recommend! All negative reviews that say Jim is controlling, rude and condescending are true! This micromanaging owner requires a wire payment so there’s no going back when his atrocious behavior comes out! Buyer beware.
Tent camping near Kenai, Alaska offers wilderness experiences on the Kenai Peninsula, where summer temperatures typically range from 50-70°F. The area receives approximately 19 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush environments ideal for wildlife viewing. Campers should note that mosquitos are abundant from June through August, with exposure varying significantly between forested and coastal sites.
Kayaking opportunities: Lower Skilak Lake Campground provides direct lake access for paddling adventures. "Rocky shores, dense woods, snow-capped peaks, wildlife...yet another quintessential Alaskan campground. Bring a kayak or other watercraft!!" notes Amber A., who also mentions the "nice hiking trails nearby, nothing too strenuous."
Salmon fishing: Deep Creek North serves as a prime salmon fishing location, especially during July. According to Allen W., "Those looking to try their hand at salmon fishing can try dropping a line in Deep Creek as well." The campground features both small craft and tractor launching facilities for boats.
Beach exploration: Spending time beachcombing along Cook Inlet presents unique opportunities. Allen W. describes the area around Deep Creek North as having "Sandy tidal flats during low tide make for good views and fun places to walk dogs or explore. Rocky higher beach sections offer agate hunting possibilities."
Stunning sunsets: The view from oceanfront sites at Deep Creek North provides spectacular evening scenery. Allen describes how "Evenings offer spectacular Cook Inlet sunsets with Mt Iliamna as a backdrop," making the coastal camping experience particularly memorable.
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings add excitement to camping experiences at Lower Skilak Lake Campground. Jessica J. reports, "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."
Digital disconnection: The lack of connectivity forces relaxation at many Kenai Peninsula camping areas. Tanya B. advises about Lower Skilak Lake, "No cell service so bring a book," while James B. confirms "Very poor or no cell signal," noting that "Several spots are great for solar and Starlink. Others are in trees."
Weather preparation: The lakeside location at Lower Skilak Lake creates a distinct microclimate. Chloe D. warns, "It is quite cold, with a chill coming from the water, so be aware of that and plan accordingly." Similarly, Allen W. emphasizes about Deep Creek North, "Bring warm weather gear, the wind is a constant here."
Facility limitations: Campgrounds around Kenai offer primitive amenities. Tanya B. suggests at Lower Skilak Lake Campground, "Pit toilets are well maintained but I always suggest bringing your own toilet paper because you just never know." Allen W. notes Deep Creek North offers "water and dumpsters" with basic bathroom facilities.
Seasonal closures: Check current status before traveling. Shadara W. warns, "Went to check out Lower Skilak Lake Campground and due to the Swan Lake fire it is closed. Unfortunately the fire damage looks to have maybe taken out the whole campground so please double check before you go."
Recreational options: Multiple activities keep children engaged at lakeside campgrounds. Mary A. shares about Lower Skilak Lake Campground, "This is a beautiful lake to bring your family to and camp. There are restrooms nearby, a boat dock, parking lot, and campsites which can be hard to find during the busy season of summer."
Wildlife safety education: Teach children proper protocols for potential animal encounters. Jessica J. recommends being "prepared for an encounter for your safety" after experiencing curious bear cubs at Lower Skilak Lake.
Tent site selection: For tent campers with children, consider site accessibility. Jessica J. points out "The campsite for tents have to be hiked in to get to. The RV sites can accommodate tent camping, with smaller tents."
Generator etiquette: Be respectful of the wilderness experience at Lower Skilak Lake Campground. Molly B. requests fellow campers "please don't run your RV generator all night and watch TV. Please, enjoy the silence and appreciate this place on earth; for yourself and your fellow campers."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires preparation. Molly B. describes Lower Skilak Lake as having a "Rough road to get there, but totally worth the mud!"
Site variations: At Deep Creek North, Allen W. notes, "100 camp sites available. Sites are aimed at Motorhome Camping. Most sites have a picnic table and a fire pit." Aimee H. adds that "All sites are basically in a gravel parking area with painted lines in between sites."
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 4.6-star rating from 9 reviews.
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