The best camping near Kenai River Special Management Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Kenai River Special Management Area adventure.

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100% (3 reviews)

Discover the serene beauty of Kenai River Special Management Area.  

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Top-rated campgrounds near Kenai River Special Management Area

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The Bluff Cabin at Clam Gulch

1 site · Lodging6 acres · Clam Gulch, AK
The Bluff Cabin at Clam Gulch is located at Magical Camping! The cabin is 12' x 24' with a great layout. The cabin includes a kitchen area, a full size murphy bed that looks out over Cook Inlet and Mt Reboubt, and a sweet one burner Jotul wood stove for heat and cooking. The cabin comes with enough firewood for a two-night stay. Wake up and have French press coffee in bed looking at the eagles fly by, riding the thermals. This is the dream romantic getaway! Hear only the surf crashing, and birds!! There is a porta potty located between two outbuildings near the cabin. Please park in front of the Bluff Cabin. Guests will enjoy the grassy bluff and the built-in fire pit, the gazebo and the granite table for cooking and washing. There is a charcoal barbeque available for guests, bring your own charcoal. The cabin is dry and non-electric. There is no wifi, but has cellular connectivity. The cabin will be supplied with 8 gallons of potable water, but guests can always bring extra, or refill water at the Kasilof Mercantile just 7 miles away. They also have groceries! The closest gas station is also 7 miles away in Kasilof. Clam Gulch Beach Access is just 4 miles away, with miles and miles of beach to walk! Ninilchik is 14 miles down the road where guests can find the Old Ninilchik Beach Access, or the Deep Creek Beach Access, and also the Three Bears Grocery Story and Roscoe's Pizza.
Potable water
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from 
$99
 / night
96%
(36)

Magical Camping Ocean,Volcano Views

2 sites · Tents5 acres · Clam Gulch, AK
Learn more about this land: This Clam Gulch 5.5 acre property offers Bluff tent camping in two locations:  Campsite 1 The Meadows, a very large meadow overlooking Cook Inlet and Campsite 3 The Sweet Spot, a secluded  meadow with an unbelieveable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt .   Wake up and watch the surf roll in from 200' up.  The only thing you will hear is birds and surf.  The Site 1 The Meadows, is a very large meadow which is kept mowed.  It is accessed by foot on a loop trail from the parking area (the Moose Trail) or from parking near the Pink Shed.  It is close to the outdoor table and gazebo allowed for guest use. This site can accomodate three tents. Site 3 The Sweet Spot  is the newest campsite.  It is also accessed by the Moose Trail, and has an unbelievable view of Cook Inlet and Mount Redoubt.  Have coffee and watch the sun rise. It is about 100 yards from the parking area Trails to the meadows are maintained and marked. Campers may  use the gazebo, picnic table, swing, charcoal barbecue, and the granite table located on the Bluff near the Owner's cabin, next to the gazebo. Vehicles must park in  designated campsite parking areas, and campers take the short walk to Site 1 or Site 3 camping meadows.   There is a Porta-Potty Near the Bluff Cabin.  There is also a first aid kit.   Campers please bring your own water.   We recommend 8 gallons for two days.  Closest potable free water for refills is Rocky's in Kasilof.  Volcano and ocean views to die for! This is approximately 3.5 hours from Anchorage. Clam Gulch Beach is 4 miles, Deep Creek Beach and Ninilchik Beach is 14 miles.  Anchor Point and Homer are less than an hour's drive.
Pets
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from 
$75
 / night

The best camping near Kenai River Special Management Area guide

Overview

About

Okay, let’s get straight to the point here—the Kenai River is a special, special place. It’s considered the world’s best fishing river, and it’s also one of the most well-loved freshwater fisheries in all of Alaska. With accolades like that, it’s no surprise that this is one busy river. Over 105 linear miles of rivers and lakes are protected under the Kenai River Special Management Area, set aside in 1984. Anglers wanting to snag king salmon will hardly find a better place! You’ll find developed campsites dotted throughout the area, and those are the spots where you can pitch your tent (camping on undeveloped lands and islands is a big no-no). And, because this place is so unique and special, be extra sure to be respectful of this glorious natural resource.

When to go

The Kenai River Special Management Area is most inviting during the summer months, from June to August, when the salmon runs are at their peak and the weather is mild. Conversely, winter can be harsh, with limited access and activities due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures, making it less ideal for visits.

Know before you go

  • Check the latest river conditions and fishing regulations before your trip to ensure a safe and compliant experience.
  • Be bear-aware; carry bear spray and know how to store food properly to avoid encounters.
  • Accessibility may vary across the area; some trails and facilities are designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
  • Prepare for the weather; layers are recommended to adapt to changing conditions throughout the day.
  • Respect the natural habitat by following Leave No Trace principles, keeping the park pristine for all.

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