Soldotna offers year-round camping with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F in summer and often dropping below 20°F in winter. Located on the western side of the Kenai Peninsula at 94 feet elevation, the area features extensive boardwalk systems along the Kenai River. Wildlife encounters are common, with bears frequently spotted during salmon runs from June through September.
What to do
Fishing access points: Centennial Park & Campground provides extensive Kenai River access with designated fishing spots. "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," notes Vanessa R.
Wildlife viewing: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Soldotna offer wildlife viewing opportunities. "Good chance to see bears," mentions JaNelle N. about Centennial Park, while the nearby Kenai National Wildlife Refuge Cabins provide more remote wildlife viewing options.
Winter activities: Many campgrounds maintain winter access. Kelly Lake Cabin at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge accommodates winter visitors. "It was late Feb./ early March... The cabin was neat, the newest we'd ever stayed in, and had a wonderful view of the trees and lake. Even the outhouse had great views!"
What campers like
Spacious sites: Swiftwater Park & Campground receives praise for its layout. "Big spacious sites, some of them right on the river. Busy, but spread out enough that noise isn't an issue," according to Glenys M.
Proximity to town: River Terrace Campground offers convenience for supply runs. "This is a very convenient site for fishing on the Kenai," notes Tanya B. The location allows campers to access Soldotna's amenities while maintaining riverfront access.
Recreational infrastructure: The extensive boardwalk system at Centennial Park provides recreational opportunities beyond fishing. "Great place to camp with your dogs. However the dogs hate the grated boardwalks," mentions Tanya B., highlighting the pet-friendly amenities with a practical consideration.
What you should know
Summer crowding: July brings peak crowds, especially during salmon runs. "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!" advises Aimee H.
Fee structures: Several campgrounds have complex fee systems. "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," warns Justin B. about Centennial Park.
Security concerns: Some campgrounds have reported safety issues. "My family and I stayed here in June. 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," notes JaNelle N. about Centennial Park.
Tips for camping with families
Animal encounters: Diamond M Ranch Resort offers unique family experiences. "For starters my children love this campground. It is fun filled with animals, bicycle rentals, basketball court, playground, seasonal berry picking, eagles nest close by, caribou viewing," shares Samantha M.
Recreational options: Family-friendly activities abound in the area. "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," adds Samantha about Diamond M Ranch Resort.
Cabin alternatives: For families wanting more comfort, several pet-friendly lodging options exist. "We parked on the lake in front of the cabin and were pleasantly surprised to see someone had left an igloo! The cabin was neat, the newest we'd ever stayed in," shares Liann W. about Kelly Lake Cabin.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal availability: Morgans Landing State Rec Area operates seasonally. "Just what we needed for a quick night's stopover. Very quiet and clean. We enjoyed a nice hike down to the river," notes BigRed Overlander O.
Firewood value: Some campgrounds provide generous firewood bundles. "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," shares Michael H. about Centennial Park.
Small RV parks: Several smaller options exist beyond the main campgrounds. "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," explains Melissa B. about Mackey Lake RV and Cabins, which has only three sites.
