Diamond M Ranch Resort combines farm experiences with glamping options near Soldotna, Alaska. The resort features spacious campsites with full hookups, shower facilities, and family-oriented activities. The area offers access to premier fishing on the Kenai River with several outfitters providing guided experiences. Winter visitors can still access some glamping facilities, though services are reduced during the off-season.
What to do
Fishing excursions: Alaska Canoe and Campground offers comprehensive gear rental services for fishing enthusiasts. "This is a campground in Gear rental. You can rent everything from fishing poles and nuts to tent camping equipment and anything you might need for watercraft," notes reviewer Tanya B.
Beach camping: Kasilof River Special Use Area provides dispersed camping directly on the beach for those seeking proximity to fishing spots. One camper mentioned, "It was beautiful, being on the ocean and a short drive or 20 min walk to the popular dipnetting area. And convenient to get up for early morning dipnetting sessions without the crowds."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to view native Alaskan wildlife in their natural habitats. Many glamping locations near Soldotna are situated along migration routes or near nesting areas for eagles and other birds, making wildlife spotting a popular activity during summer months.
What campers like
Convenient fishing access: Kasilof River Special Use Area draws anglers during peak fishing seasons. "The special use area was open for Subsistence fishing - and made for an easy place to camp outside of Kenai. Not really a scenic site, but efficient with trash and porta potties," reports Stephanie Z.
Professional guided fishing: Cooper Landing Fishing Guide receives high marks for its fishing expertise. A reviewer simply stated, "Great fishing guides," highlighting the quality of the service offered to visitors seeking local knowledge.
Farm setting: Diamond M Ranch Resort provides a unique glamping experience with its farmyard setting. The combination of outdoor accommodations with agricultural elements creates a distinctive atmosphere compared to traditional campgrounds in the region.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Off-season visitors to the Soldotna area should note reduced facilities. Regarding Kasilof River Special Use Area, a camper warned, "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."
Bathroom facilities: Public camping areas may have limited or poorly maintained facilities during peak seasons. One reviewer at Kasilof River Special Use Area reported, "There were about 8 to 10 porta-potties all in a row at where the beach meets the road. They were disgusting and nearly full."
Booking requirements: Most glamping facilities near Soldotna require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when tourism peaks. Some locations only operate seasonally, with Alaska Canoe and Campground noting a season from "mid May to mid October."
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Diamond M Ranch Resort offers numerous family-friendly amenities beyond just camping. According to Manolo P., the resort has "Lot of space, all media, everything clean, very good price. Also they have an animal farm, a lot of memorabilia, etc."
Beach safety: Families camping at beach locations should be aware of tide schedules and mud conditions. Vehicles can become stuck in mud flats during low tide, requiring careful planning when setting up camp with children.
Outdoor recreation: Multiple glamping facilities provide recreational equipment rentals for families. This includes bicycles, canoes, kayaks and other water equipment, allowing families to explore the local waterways without bringing their own gear.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Diamond M Ranch Resort, RVers have options for different camping areas. One camper advised, "We've stayed once in the paddock area another in the grass area on the other side. I preferred the open grass area for the children to run around in without animals."
Hookup availability: RV sites at Alaska Canoe and Campground cost approximately $40 per night with electric, sewer, and water hookups available. "This is right off the Sterling highway and impossible to miss. It's worth checking out if you're looking at hooking up your RV," noted one reviewer.
Parking considerations: Large RVs may find limited suitable parking at some locations. Beach camping areas particularly require caution as sand and mud can create hazardous driving conditions for heavy vehicles.
