Best Camping near Soldotna, AK

Soldotna is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Soldotna is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Soldotna camping trip.

Best Camping Sites Near Soldotna, AK (84)

    Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground

    1. Centennial Park & Campground

    10 Reviews
    19 Photos
    35 Saves
    Soldotna, Alaska

    Located at 349 Centennial Park Road in the city of Soldotna behind the cities visitors center, Centennial Park is a fee-based, public-use park and campground designed with access to fishing and the Kenai River in mind. No Reservations Accepted, Campground Host Onsite. Soldotna's Centennial Park Campground gets very busy when the salmon are running in the Kenai River. Fishermen descend upon the banks of the Kenai River as thousands of salmon make their way up the river within easy casting distance of the campgrounds large fishing areas.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $21 - $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Skilak Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Skilak Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Skilak Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Skilak Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Skilak Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Lower Skilak Lake Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area

    3. Captain Cook State Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    33 Photos
    31 Saves
    Kenai, Alaska

    Captain Cook State Recreation Area is virtually undiscovered by most visitors to the Kenai Peninsula. It offers a peaceful setting of forests, lakes, streams and saltwater beaches.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgans Landing State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgans Landing State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgans Landing State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgans Landing State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgans Landing State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Morgans Landing State Rec Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
    Camper-submitted photo from Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins

    5. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins

    2 Reviews
    8 Photos
    10 Saves
    Soldotna, Alaska

    Overview

    The Kenai National Wildlife Refuge guarantees breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable experience for visitors staying in one of the 14 rustic cabins located in Alaska's Kenai Peninsula. Getting to the cabin can be a thrilling adventure in itself, as most of them require the use of boats, aircraft, hiking or skiing. The grudging withdrawal of the Harding Ice Field has helped to make the lands of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge a "miniature Alaska." Today, the refuge includes examples of every major Alaska habitat type. The refuge is an Alaska in miniature in its diversity of wildlife, as well.

    Recreation

    Eager anglers can pursue chinook, sockeye, coho and pink salmon; as well as Dolly Varden char, rainbow trout, and arctic grayling. The refuge is also home to brown and black bears, caribou, Dall sheep, mountain goats, wolves, lynx, wolverines, eagles and thousands of shorebirds and waterfowl, not to mention the mighty Alaska-Yukon moose that the refuge was originally established (as the Kenai National Moose Range) to protect.

    Natural Features

    Kenai National Wildlife Refuge spans 1.9 million acres along the western Kenai Peninsula in Alaska. The region includes the western slopes of the Kenai Mountains, forested lowlands along Cook Inlet, rivers, lakes and wetlands. To the east is Chugach National Forest and southeast is Kenai Fjords National Park.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (907) 262-7021.

    Charges & Cancellations

    A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. The $10.00 service fee will be deducted from the refund amount. Customers will be charged a $10.00 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's use fee if a cabin reservation is cancelled within 14 days of the scheduled arrival date. Cancellations for a single night's use will not be assessed a service fee.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Cabins
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets

    $45 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground

    7. Discovery Campground

    5 Reviews
    7 Photos
    14 Saves
    Kenai, Alaska
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
    • No image available

      9. Lone Moose Lodge and RV Park

      1 Review
      11 Saves
      Soldotna, Alaska

      Escape to what has been named the "Last great frontier". Alaska, A place where your mind, body, and soul will relax and become one with nature. Catch the "fish of a Lifetime", the world record King Salmon was landed on this river. Chase Sockeye Salmon with your family or friends. Float the river and cast fly's for big rainbow trout. Plan a fly out trip to view bears and other wildlife. Plan the hunt of a lifetime. All these adventures begin from your wonderfully appointed cabin. Each cabin is decorated in a theme. Bear, Moose, Plane, Salmon, Western. All sleep from 5 to 8 people depending on your group. One bedroom/one bath and a large sleeping loft. Plush mattresses and premium linens make sure you awake rested and ready for adventure. Outdoor grill, Sat TV and WIFI are included. All cabins have Keurig coffee machines, 4 burner stove with oven, microwave and full size refrigerator and 3 smart TV's. Each cabin is assigned a chest freezer to store your catch or your supply of grocery's.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Electric Hookups
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs

      $25 - $349 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Tustamena Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Tustamena Lake Campground
      Camper-submitted photo from Tustamena Lake Campground
    Showing results 1-10 of 84 campgrounds

    Pet-friendly camping near Soldotna

    Recent Reviews in Soldotna

    187 Reviews of 84 Soldotna Campgrounds


    • WThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
      Aug. 30, 2024

      Discovery Campground

      Terrific campground

      Wonderful stay at 50 site primitive campground. Big rig friendly, clean, private sites. Clean vault toilets, pump for water, trash, no dump station. Lots of wildlife - moose with calves in cg. Great fishing in Cooks Inlet, Stormy Lake, and Swanson River all steps from the campground. Beachcombing and rockhounding on beach. Stunning views.

    • AKExplorer G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Caribou Hills Recreation Area Dispersed
      Aug. 16, 2024

      Caribou Hills Recreation Area Dispersed

      Great Camping Area

      You can camp anywhere in the DNR Recreational Area out in The Hills. Camp by the creek or up on one of the hills with amazing views. Wonderful area for foraging fungi and harvesting berries. Great Bear and Moose hunting area.

      Please, Pack it in, Pack it out.

    • WThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
      Aug. 4, 2024

      Captain Cook State Recreation Area

      Great Camping

      Rustic 50 site campground. Several sites suited to large rigs. Well kept campground with immaculate vault toilets. Fantastic views, great fishing, and trails. Beachcomb for agates, spirit stones, and wishing stones.

    • D
      Camper-submitted photo from K-Beach Campground and Storage
      Aug. 1, 2024

      K-Beach Campground and Storage

      This establishment is a disaster.

      I had the worst experience camping experience of my life here. Noisy, filthy, and poorly managed. The lady who owns it is disrespectful and lazy yet asking a premium price. The sites are not private, the bathrooms are filthy. I recommend not considering this place unless you are dip netting or in noise at all hours not too mention the thievery.

    • D
      Camper-submitted photo from K-Beach Campground and Storage
      Aug. 1, 2024

      K-Beach Campground and Storage

      This place is a disaster, no water hookups, filthy bathrooms, rude manager

      I stayed here early 2024 season and will not return.  The noise was horrible, no privacy between sites and water in few. Basically dry miserable camping at a premium price but the worst part was dealing with the matriarch of the village. The female owner is a rude disrespectful person, clearly uncomfortable in her own skin.

    • Lynn G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Alaskan Angler RV Resort
      Jul. 18, 2024

      Alaskan Angler RV Resort

      Alaskan Anglers RV Resort

      4.5 stars for this RV park. They have everything you need. Laundry/showers/bathrooms. 50/30 amp electric, sewer, water. Small dog run. They have a fish charter service, as well as fish cleaning stations. They also fillet, vacuum pack freeze and ship your catch. We really enjoyed ourselves here.

    • Samantha F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Upper Skilak Lake Campground - Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
      Jun. 18, 2024

      Upper Skilak Lake Campground - Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

      Campsite and gorgeous views were worth dealing with the bugs for for

      The 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.

    • J
      Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
      Jun. 14, 2024

      Centennial Park & Campground

      Hidden fees killed the love

      Beautiful campground. Clean facilities. BUT the $23/vehicle/campsite killed the 5 stars this place deserves. Be aware that if you have a towed car or motorcycles with your camper they will charge you even though you are in one site. And this fee is not on the entrance sign nor the City of Soldotna website.

    • BThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Tustumena Lake
      May. 2, 2024

      Tustumena Lake

      Nice Spot

      This is a small campground with individual sites. It has a lake with boat ramp access and is used frequently, during summer months. Campsites have firepits. Some sites can be quite muddy to get to. Very nice. No cell service at sites.

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Cooper Creek North Campground
      Sep. 28, 2023

      Cooper Creek North Campground

      River views near a bbq restaurant

      There is a south campground along the river and a north loop along the creek. We stayed in the south camp at the end of September so it was “no services no fees” at that time. There’s a bbq restaurant across the street. There are food storage lockers at each site because of bears. Most other campers were there to fish.

    • M
      Camper-submitted photo from Clam Gulch State Rec Area
      Sep. 26, 2023

      Clam Gulch State Rec Area

      Beach access and good bay and mountain views

      We stayed off season and were the only campers except the host. We rv camped and parked in a spot with an outlook over the cliff toward mountains. Only a few spots have views. There is a trail down to a beautiful beach, also empty when we were there. The parking spots are very tightly spaced.

    • Kristi D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Centennial Park & Campground
      Aug. 26, 2023

      Centennial Park & Campground

      Convenient campground

      Right 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!

    • Kristi D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cooper Creek North Campground
      Aug. 21, 2023

      Cooper Creek North Campground

      Lovely convenient campground

      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 ...

    • Kristi D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cooper Creek South
      Aug. 21, 2023

      Cooper Creek South

      Beautiful spot on river

      Small 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!

    • A M.
      Camper-submitted photo from K-Beach Campground and Storage
      Jun. 26, 2023

      K-Beach Campground and Storage

      Nice spot tucked in the woods close to the beach.

      Mostly dry camping with some full hookup spots. Nice fish cleaning station under a roof to keep you dry in the rain. There was firewood when I was there which we made use of, peaceful place to roast some marshmallows. The bathroom situation could use some work since it is an old place, but they were clean.

    • Cathy B.
      Camper-submitted photo from Hidden Lake Campground
      Jun. 24, 2023

      Hidden Lake Campground

      Hidden Lake Camp Ground

      The camp hosts were exceptional, I am handicap and they found us a great handicap space for car camping at the time. This as Fourth of July weekend 2021

    • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Captain Cook State Recreation Area
      Apr. 4, 2023

      Captain Cook State Recreation Area

      Just Wandered Back to See What Was Here & Stayed a Couple Days!

      Tucked away off the main Kenai Peninsula roads, Captain Cook SP sees fewer visitors and offers campers a nice quiet way to spend a few days. While fishing might be the main outdoor activity here, walking along the rocky beach of Cook inlet can’t be beat. 

      The campsites are rustic and small, with just a few able to serve larger rigs. The road through the campground is winding and hilly so we’d recommend not bringing a long 5th wheel or bus in here. The vault toilets were clean and water was available through spigots located around the loop. Like all Alaskan State Park wells, they recommend that you treat, filter, or boil all water before consuming. The forest canopy made it a bit of a challenge for our solar system, but our portable solar suitcase was able to make up the difference by periodically moving it around to the sunny spot. 

      Hiking trails lead throughout the campground and down to the beach where you could walk for miles if you wanted. The views of Cook Inlet and the mountains of the western shore are stunning on clear days and the sunsets were incredible.  Denali is probably visible occasionally. There was an “Alaskan boat launch," aka a 4-wheel drive road down to the beach where you could launch a small craft, canoe or kayak, and cycling along the roads is possible. There are ample fishing opportunities throughout the area, as well as companies which will take you further inland by seaplane to find your own isolated spot. 

      The closest town with full services is Kenai, and the larger village of Soldatna for mechanics, gas, groceries and restaurants.

    • Ashley F.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC
      Jan. 13, 2023

      Cooper Landing Fishing Guide, LLC

      Some of the best Kenai River Fishing Guides on staff

      Ashley here with The Dyrt. We're so happy to have David on our platform. He offers a cozy yurt for a party of 4. No running water but there is heat! Book a guided fishing trip and leave your review here!

    • SJ D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Kasilof River Special Use Area
      Sep. 26, 2022

      Kasilof River Special Use Area

      No bathrooms during off 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

    • SJ D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Discovery Campground
      Sep. 21, 2022

      Discovery Campground

      Great walking trails!

      Stayed at site 19, only a few sites down there is a marked trail (steep and slippery when wet) that goes down to the ocean. There are nice tables at the picnic area, not many water sources or bathrooms. Low tide is breathtaking, be careful of the mud flats, they can be like quick sand



    Guide to Soldotna

    Camping near Soldotna, Alaska, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to fish, hike, or just relax by the water, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

    What to do:

    • Fishing: The Kenai River is a prime spot for fishing. One camper mentioned, "The fishing access was great" at Centennial Park & Campground, making it a popular choice for anglers.
    • Hiking: Explore the trails around Lower Skilak Lake Campground. A visitor noted, "There are trails, lakes, site seeing and enjoying the peace," highlighting the area's natural beauty.
    • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bears and moose. One camper at Upper Skilak Lake Campground shared, "We saw black bears and grizzly bears every day," which adds an exciting element to your camping experience.

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A review for Captain Cook State Recreation Area mentioned, "Immaculate vault toilets," which is a big plus for many.
    • Secluded Spots: Campers enjoy the privacy offered by some campgrounds. One visitor at Hidden Lake Campground said, "Each site felt pretty secluded and private," making it a great choice for those wanting to escape the crowds.
    • Beautiful Views: The scenery is a major draw. A camper at Clam Gulch State Rec Area noted, "The View and trail down to the Beach makes up for it," showcasing the stunning landscapes around Soldotna.

    What you should know:

    • Fees: Be aware of additional charges. A camper at Centennial Park & Campground mentioned hidden fees, stating, "The $23/vehicle/campsite killed the 5 stars this place deserves."
    • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A visitor at Lower Skilak Lake Campground pointed out, "There is not charge for these spots and most have picnic tables," but also noted the absence of showers and electric hookups.
    • Bugs: Be prepared for insects, especially in summer. A camper at Hidden Lake Campground advised, "Make sure you have bug spray," as the area can get buggy.

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with room to spread out. A family at Morgans Landing State Rec Area enjoyed, "Our campsite had an area for the camper then a space for the fire/table and kids running around."
    • Activities for Kids: Choose locations with nearby trails and water access. One camper at Johnson Lake State Recreation Area mentioned, "The walk-in campsites are spacious," making it easy for kids to explore.
    • Safety First: Keep an eye on children, especially near water. A visitor at Upper Skilak Lake Campground reminded campers to be vigilant about food storage due to bears.

    Tips from RVers:

    • Road Conditions: Be cautious of bumpy roads leading to some campgrounds. A camper at Upper Skilak Lake Campground noted, "There are two sides of the road you can come from and either is rough."
    • Space for Large Rigs: Look for campgrounds that can accommodate bigger vehicles. A review for Captain Cook State Recreation Area mentioned, "Several sites suited to large rigs," which is helpful for RV travelers.
    • Plan for Limited Services: Some campgrounds are remote, so stock up on supplies. A visitor at Discovery Campground advised, "Bring supplies, the closest market is quite a drive away."

    Camping near Soldotna, Alaska, offers a unique experience with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Just be prepared for the quirks of each campground, and you'll have a great time!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • What camping is available near Soldotna, AK?

      According to TheDyrt.com, Soldotna, AK offers a wide range of camping options, with 84 campgrounds and RV parks near Soldotna, AK and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

    • Which is the most popular campground near Soldotna, AK?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Soldotna, AK is Centennial Park & Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 10 reviews.

    • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Soldotna, AK?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Soldotna, AK.

    • What parks are near Soldotna, AK?

      According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 parks near Soldotna, AK that allow camping, notably Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and Chugach National Forest.