Tent camping near Seward, Alaska provides access to the Kenai Peninsula's diverse ecosystems where annual precipitation averages 70 inches, creating lush temperate rainforest conditions throughout camping season. Most tent sites in this region sit at elevations between 0-500 feet along the coastline, with backcountry options extending up to 3,000 feet into the Chugach Mountains. Temperatures typically range from 45-65°F during summer camping months, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 40°F even in July.
What to do
Glacier hiking access: From Exit Glacier Campground, campers can take the Harding Icefield Trail for unparalleled glacier views. "After hiking the Harding ice field, I camped here. It was perfect! Prime location after a long hike, clean & free," notes Lauren T.
Historical exploration: The WWII fort at North Beach at Caines Head provides unique historical interest. "From the campground, we hiked up to explore the abandoned WWII fort, Fort McGilvray. Super interesting and much bigger than I expected!" reports Les R.
Wildlife viewing: Tent campers at Lower Skilak Lake Campground can observe diverse wildlife. "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," advises Jessica J.
What campers like
Beach camping options: At Tonsina Point, campers appreciate the coastal setting. "If it's a nice day like we had, bypass the official camping area and camp on the beach. We found a lovely flat spot well above the waterline. Woke up to eagles, harlequin ducks and glacier views," shares Stacey C.
Secluded forest sites: Crescent Creek offers tent campers privacy in wooded settings. "This place is secluded, and magical. Tent camping works best here, sites are pretty small for anything bigger than a sprinter van," reports Michael V.
Strategic overnight stops: Spencer Whistle Stop provides unique train-accessible camping. "There are two group campsites that must be reserved through the Alaska Railroad 800.544.0552. Clean restroom facilities, bear proof food storage, picnic tables, fire ring," details Tanya B.
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: All campgrounds near Seward enforce strict food storage regulations. "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," warns Stacey C. at Exit Glacier Campground.
Weather preparedness: Rain and cold are common even in summer. At Tonsina Point, shelters provide protection as "rainy weather is common here, but fortunately there are covered areas for cooking/eating," notes Les R.
Tide awareness: Caines Head access requires careful planning. "You have two options for getting here: 1. Hiking in, which we did on the way in. It is very important to check the tides, and it is recommended to avoid hiking along the beach once the tide reaches +3," explains Les R.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly trails: Exit Glacier Campground offers accessible hikes for children. "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," shares Samantha M.
Food storage solutions: Designated storage areas make family meal planning easier. "You are not allowed to store food at your campsite but there is a communial storage area for these items. There are vaulted toilets and a cooking area to use," notes Samantha M. about Exit Glacier.
Insect protection: Bring appropriate bug protection for children. "There wasn't any wind and the mosquitos were INSANE! Bring your bugspray and a headnet," advises Stacey C.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Most tent-focused campgrounds near Seward have limited space for larger vehicles. At Crescent Creek, "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," cautions Shadara W.
Bridge restrictions: Access to some campgrounds involves weight-limited crossings. "You pass over three one lane bridges with a max of 10 tons allowed," warns Shadara W. about Crescent Creek.
Alternative accommodations: RV travelers can find tent options when sites are limited. "Really nice little campground. There were a number of other pay places that were full. We were luck to find a pull out," explains Tanya B. about Lower Skilak Lake Campground.
