M
Marcus H.
Guide
GuideCaptain Cook State Recreation Area Discovery Campground
Quiet location
Great place to go explore the beach at low tides. Excellent views
Camping near Soldotna, AK
89 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
Soldotna, Alaska features multiple waterfront camping options along the Kenai River, making it a popular destination for those who come to fish. Campgrounds near Soldotna range from primitive tent sites in municipal parks to full-service RV resorts with electric hookups, showers, and sewer connections. Centennial Park & Campground provides direct river access with developed tent and RV sites, while Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins offer more secluded accommodations accessible by boat, vehicle, or hiking trails. The area includes a mix of municipal parks, private RV resorts, and state recreation areas with varying levels of amenities, from primitive tent sites to full-service RV hookups and cabin rentals.
Most campgrounds in the Soldotna region operate seasonally, with peak availability from May through September, though several facilities like Centennial Park remain open year-round. Camping areas become particularly crowded during salmon fishing season in June and July. "Centennial 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," notes one experienced visitor. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly in shoulder seasons, and winter camping requires cold-weather preparation. Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though some private facilities accept reservations.
Riverfront access represents the primary draw for many campers visiting the area. Several developed campgrounds feature boardwalks and designated fishing platforms along the Kenai River. As described in feedback on The Dyrt, "The fishing access was great. The staff keep this place very nice." Campground amenities vary considerably, with options ranging from basic sites with vault toilets to full-service RV parks with electric hookups, showers, and sewer connections. Public sites typically offer fire pits and picnic tables. While private RV parks and resorts tend to charge premium rates, especially during fishing season, municipal campgrounds like Swiftwater Park provide more affordable alternatives with spacious sites. Wildlife viewing opportunities, including possible bear sightings, add to the camping experience throughout the region.
Best Campgrounds near Soldotna (89)
1. Centennial Park & Campground
"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."
"Centennial Campground in Soldotna Alaska will be bursting at the seams in June and July."
from $21 - $26 / night
Check Availability2. Morgans Landing State Rec Area
"Our campsite had an area for the camper then a space for the fire/table and kids running around. Bathroom locations were close and convenient."
3. Diamond M Ranch Resort
"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."
"It is fun filled with animals, bicycle rentals, basketball court, playground, seasonal berry picking, eagles nest close by, caribou viewing, balcony viewing area, fire rings and fishing is nearby in the"
from $149 / night
Check Availability4. Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins
"I can't say enough about my stay at Kelly Lake Cabin of the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabin."
"The lake is very private."
from $45 - $55 / night
Check Availability5. Klondike RV Park & Cottages
6. Lone Moose Lodge and RV Park
from $25 - $349 / night
Check Availability7. Mackey Lake RV and Cabins
"NO HOOKUPS but great location across the street from TALON AIR for Bear and Fishing trips. Close to town. Fred Meyer 3 miles away, river 4 miles away. Kenai 15 miles away."
from $60 / night
8. River Terrace Campground
"You can call and check to see when there running or you can just check with Alaska Fish and Game. When they’re running in the thousands it’s pretty much full so you would need to reserve ahead."
9. Sunrise Resorts | Edgewater Lodge & RV Park
"Have stairs and have access to river to fish. Showers are coin operated and $1.50 for 7 minutes. Toilets are available. No standard picnic tables expect for deluxe sites."
10. Swiftwater Park & Campground
Drive Time
- 13 hrs 45 min from Fairbanks, AK
Recent Camping Photos near Soldotna, AK
25 Photos of 89 Soldotna Campgrounds
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Swiftwater Park & Campground
Tanya B.
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Vera G.
Centennial Park & Campground
Tanya B.
Morgans Landing State Rec Area
Stacey C.
Kasilof River Special Use Area
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Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground
Aimee H.
Captain Cook State Recreation Area
Molly B.
Lower Skilak Lake Campground
Samantha F.
Discovery Campground Capt. Cook State Park Campground
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Lower Ohmer Lake Campground
Jennifer W.
Hidden Lake Campground
Dori S.
Russian River - TEMPORARILY CLOSED
Recent Reviews near Soldotna, AK
209 Reviews of 89 Soldotna Campgrounds
Lee D.
LegendDiamond M Ranch Resort
Family Fun!
General: 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.
Kellan K.
ScoutCentennial Park & Campground
Great app
Anyone that is into the outdoors from rudimentary camping to RV lifestyle it is perfect
- LLynde T.Guide
Deep Creek Recreation Area
Deep Creek Beach Campground
Really enjoyed staying here. First come, first serve. Alaska DNR campground, $20/night. No amenities other than vault toilets, water pump and dumpsters. Several sites, all seem to be back-in. All have picnic table and fire ring. Sites are generally level and easy to access. Several sites right off the beach. We stayed at a site in the back area, right next to the creek. Our motorhome windshield is facing the dunes with a fantastic view of bald eagle hang out. There’s generally 10-20+ eagles at any time and we’ve even seen golden eagles. The beach is a short walk and located next to the Deep Creek Boat Launch, where tractors launch boats in and out. Highly recommend watching. It’s truly gorgeous here.
Ricky R.
RangerDeep Creek Recreation Area
Right on the Cook Inlet Beach Front
Parking lot style state campground with multiple sites for any size rig. Gets busy at times but never filled up while we were there. Good Eagle viewing. Good for tents as well.
- LLaura C.Scout
Moose Crossing RV & Food Truck Park
Adorable
The camp host was so kind and helped us get situated. It’s a quaint and beautiful site.
Connie B.GuideNinilchik View Campground
Primitive camping with a view
This 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.
- VValerie K.
TravelerJohnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground
Beautiful Tent Spot
We 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.
- ttiffany T.Traveler
Tustumena Lake
Right on the lake
Stopped 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
Guide to Soldotna
Soldotna camping areas combine riverfront access with spacious camping sites across municipal, state, and private facilities. The Kenai River runs through the region, with camping options ranging from $25 for basic sites to $70 for premium riverfront locations with hookups. Summer temperatures typically range between 50-70°F, with occasional rain showers even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing from boardwalks: Centennial Park & Campground offers designated fishing access with metal stairs leading to the water. One visitor notes, "Great family weekend campground and is right on the river providing amazing fishing opportunities. This campground is huge! So lots of trails and boardwalks to ride bikes, walk dogs, get out and explore."
Wildlife viewing: Look for eagles and bears at multiple locations throughout the area. At Diamond M Ranch Resort, one camper appreciated the "eagles nest close by, caribou viewing," while another mentioned that Centennial Park offers a "good chance to see bears."
Lake activities: Several campgrounds provide lake access for boating or quiet fishing away from the busier river. At Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins, one visitor shared: "Engineer Lake Cabin. Only a 1 mile hike in and it comes with a row boat. The lake is very private."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campsites near Soldotna provide ample room between neighbors. Swiftwater Park & Campground features "Big spacious sites, some of them right on the river. Busy, but spread out enough that noise isn't an issue."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain well-kept facilities despite heavy use during peak season. At Edgewater Lodge & RV Park, "Showers are coin operated and $1.50 for 7 minutes. Toilets are available."
Firewood value: Some sites offer excellent firewood packages. One Centennial Park camper mentioned: "I don't know if it is just because they are clearing out all of the Bettle killed spruce, but they give you a real bundle of firewood for $6. I thought I would carry 2 bundles back to camp, but had to go get a wagon. It lasted us 4 nights."
What you should know
Vehicle fees: Be aware of additional charges for extra vehicles at some campgrounds. A recent Centennial Park visitor warned: "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."
Reservation policies: Reservation systems vary widely between campgrounds. While Centennial Park operates first-come, first-served, Morgans Landing State Rec Area provides quiet alternatives, with one camper noting it was "Just what we needed for a quick night's stopover. Very quiet and clean."
Seasonal staff quality: Staff experience affects camping quality. A Centennial Park visitor cautioned: "Camp host from Mississippi (there are 2) is an ahole. One of those who lets a little power get to his head (you know the type). I thought it might just be me but after talking to close to a dozen other campers everyone had had a run in with him."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific family features. Diamond M Ranch Resort provides "animals, bicycle rentals, basketball court, playground, seasonal berry picking," making it particularly appealing as "children love this campground."
Safety concerns: During busy seasons, be mindful of campground security. One family at Centennial Park observed: "We were sad to see that there was no one on duty at nights for the most part as weird people would come and go all hours of the night. Druggies would be seen setting up camp after hours and leaving before open hours."
Shoulder season benefits: Consider camping in early September for a quieter experience with children. The Kenai River areas become less crowded while still offering activities. Morgans Landing State Rec Area visitors "enjoyed a nice hike down to the river" during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Urban convenience: Mackey Lake RV and Cabins offers NO HOOKUPS but provides "great location across the street from TALON AIR for Bear and Fishing trips. Close to town. Fred Meyer 3 miles away, river 4 miles away."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites command premium prices during peak season. River Terrace Campground offers "Full hookups $70.00 plus tax" but provides a private boardwalk for fishing access.
Size considerations: While many sites accommodate large rigs, some have specific limitations. Morgans Landing State Rec Area has "Center campsites are pull and 26 is pretty large. There is everything you expect from a State recreation site."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find tent camping in Soldotna?
Where can I find tent camping in Soldotna?
Tent campers in Soldotna have several options to choose from. Cooper Creek South provides a less crowded alternative to busier fishing campgrounds while still offering similar amenities, making it ideal for group tent camping trips. Another excellent option is Tustamena Lake Campground, which offers free camping within reach of Soldotna's fishing opportunities. For tent campers wanting to stay closer to town, Sunrise Resorts | Edgewater Lodge & RV Park accepts tent campers with online reservations available from mid-May through Labor Day. Most tent sites in the area are first-come, first-served, so arriving early during peak fishing season (June-July) is advisable.
What are the best campgrounds in Soldotna, Alaska?
What are the best campgrounds in Soldotna, Alaska?
Soldotna offers several excellent camping options, with Centennial Park & Campground standing out as a top choice due to its prime location on the Kenai River and proximity to downtown Soldotna. This campground is especially popular during fishing season (June-July). For those seeking quieter alternatives, Captain Cook State Recreation Area offers a hidden gem at the end of Kenai Spur Road with beautiful natural surroundings. Other notable options include Sunrise Resorts | Edgewater Lodge & RV Park for those wanting more amenities, and Tustamena Lake Campground for budget-conscious campers. Most Soldotna campgrounds fill quickly during peak salmon fishing season, so arriving early or having backup options is recommended.
What amenities are available at Centennial Campground in Soldotna?
What amenities are available at Centennial Campground in Soldotna?
Centennial Park & Campground offers nicely wooded sites with privacy but no hookups. The campground features clean facilities, water access, and restrooms. Its main draw is direct access to the Kenai River for fishing. The extensive grounds include trails and boardwalks perfect for biking, walking dogs, and exploring. Vehicle fees apply ($23 per vehicle per campsite, including towed vehicles and motorcycles). The campground operates seasonally with varying prices between on and off fishing seasons. No reservations are accepted—it's first-come, first-served and fills quickly during peak fishing season (June-July). Check the City of Soldotna website for current fees and available discounts.
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