Best Camping near Kodiak, AK

Join the fun near Kodiak. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Kodiak is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Kodiak, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Kodiak, AK (6)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Abercrombie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Abercrombie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Abercrombie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Fort Abercrombie State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Pasagshak State Recreation Site
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
      Camper-submitted photo from Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Cabins

      5. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Cabins

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      Kodiak, Alaska

      Overview

      Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge is known world-wide for its iconic wildlife. Visitors journey here to view Kodiak brown bears and majestic bald eagles, fish for all five species of Pacific salmon, hunt big game, watch marine life, and plenty of other wildlife related activities. The refuge is located on the rugged Kodiak Archipelago in the Gulf of Alaska, 252 miles southwest of Anchorage. It covers 1.9 million acres on Kodiak, Uganik, Ban and Afognak Islands, and is only accessible by float-plane or boat.

      Recreation

      Kodiak Refuge is an ideal destination for wildlife viewing, hunting, hiking, kayaking, fishing, camping and other types of outdoor adventures. Adventurous, full or half-day flight-seeing trips are also a popular activity in this vast and beautiful area. Popular fishing destinations such as the Uganik, Karluk and Ayakulik Rivers, offer world-class angler opportunities. With elk, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goats, and brown bears in the area, the refuge offers multiple hunting possibilities.

      Natural Features

      Misty fiords, deep glacial valleys and lofty mountains distinguish the refuge landscape. Diverse habitats encompass 117 salmon-bearing streams, 16 lakes, riparian wetlands, grasslands, shrub lands, Sitka spruce forest, tundra and alpine meadows. Collectively, these habitats are home to approximately 3,000 brown bears, account for up to 30 million salmon caught by the Kodiak-based fishing fleet, support more than 400 breeding pairs of bald eagles and provide essential migration and breeding habitats for another 250 species of fish, birds and mammals. Kodiak has a maritime climate. The weather is variable, but cool, wet and windy conditions prevail. Hypothermia is a possibility at any time of year without the proper attire. Regardless of the season, always bring warm, waterproof gear and be prepared for weather delays during arrival or departure.

      Nearby Attractions

      Kodiak Island houses six permanent villages, four of which are surrounded by refuge lands: Karluk, Larsen Bay, Akhiok and Old Harbor. Port Lions and Ouzinkie are several miles north of the refuge. Two small airlines service these villages on a daily basis.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Reservable
      • Cabins
      • Toilets

      $45 / night

      • No image available

      Pet-friendly camping near Kodiak

      Recent Reviews in Kodiak

      3 Reviews of 6 Kodiak Campgrounds


      • Matthew R.
        Camper-submitted photo from Pasagshak State Recreation Site
        Oct. 3, 2021

        Pasagshak State Recreation Site

        Beautiful yet primitive campground

        The view of the bay here is beautiful, but come prepared beforehand as the only convenience here is outhouses. Theses may not be open in the fall or winter because people usually only camp here in the summer.

      • Brad B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Buskin River State Rec Area
        May. 15, 2019

        Buskin River State Rec Area

        Camping with the Bears

        I can't believe town is so close. You feel like you are miles from no where especially when a 9 foot brown bear walks into your camp site. Close to world famous Salmon fishing and close to the city of Kodiak.

        I stayed here on a fishing trip and loved how close to the fishing I was. The campground is steps away from world class salmon fishing. Please make sure not to keep food in your tent because yes it is BEAR COUNTRY. As you can see from my pictures I saw lots of bears and lots of eagles. The fishing is amazing.



      Guide to Kodiak

      Camping near Kodiak, Alaska, offers a unique experience filled with stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to explore.

      What to do:

      • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby waters. One reviewer at Fishing Hole Campground mentioned, "Closer to the Shops, very busy and Crowded, prefer the Mariner One," highlighting the campground's proximity to fishing spots.
      • Beachcombing: The beaches around Kodiak are perfect for exploring. A visitor at Mariner Park said, "Awesome Spot on Homer Spit, Camp Right on the Beach with Awesome Views," showcasing the beautiful scenery.
      • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper at Homer Spit Campground shared, "Homer is known as a particularly good spot for Grizzly Bear tours into Kobuk Valley National Park."

      What campers like:

      • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the breathtaking views. A review from Heritage RV Park states, "Ocean view site was beautiful," emphasizing the picturesque surroundings.
      • Friendly Atmosphere: Many appreciate the welcoming vibe. A visitor at Ocean Shores RV Park noted, "Fabulous time and service here, the staff incredibly helpful and fun to hangout with."
      • Convenient Locations: Campgrounds like Baycrest RV Park are well-placed for easy access to local attractions. One camper mentioned, "Great for a quick stay, full hookups, beautiful view when the weather cooperates."

      What you should know:

      • Crowded During Peak Season: Many campgrounds can get busy, especially in summer. A camper at Fishing Hole Campground said, "It is the best spot to dry camp on the spit as it is easy to walk to everything."
      • Basic Amenities: Some campgrounds may have limited facilities. A review from Mariner Park mentioned, "Toilets are open seasonally," so be prepared for basic setups.
      • Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly, so pack accordingly. A visitor at Homer Spit Campground advised, "The lack of any trees made solar power a no-brainer, even on the cloudy days."

      Tips for camping with families:

      • Choose Beachfront Sites: Look for campgrounds with beachfront access. A family at Homer Spit Campground enjoyed, "Having a beachfront site gave us plenty of room for the kids to run during the day."
      • Plan for Activities: Bring along gear for fishing and beach games. One camper at Fishing Hole Campground mentioned, "Right on the beach with easy access to bathrooms and all the restaurants on The Spit."
      • Check for Family-Friendly Amenities: Look for campgrounds with playgrounds or open spaces. A review from Heritage RV Park noted, "Everything you could need from showers to a club house."

      Tips from RVers:

      • Reserve Early: Many RVers recommend making reservations in advance. A visitor at Ocean Shores RV Park said, "Make reservations because this place fills up."
      • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A review from Baycrest RV Park mentioned, "The view was the best part, but it felt cramped."
      • Utilize Local Resources: Take advantage of nearby grocery stores and restaurants. A camper at Heritage RV Park shared, "It's all right on the water and a two-minute drive to all the charters on the spit."

      Camping near Kodiak, Alaska, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of activities and beautiful scenery to make your trip memorable.

      Frequently Asked Questions