By:
Submission
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge has a variety of roadside campgrounds. All campsites are on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is no reservation system for refuge campgrounds. Federal Interagency Senior and Access Passes reduce camping fees by 50% in refuge campgrounds. Camping may not exceed 14 days in a 30-day period anywhere on the refuge. Stay limits are two days at the Russian River Access Area or seven consecutive days at Hidden Lake Campground.
Fires
Fires in developed campgrounds are allowed but restricted to grates, barbeques, or stoves. Campers may cut firewood, but only dead or down wood may be collected. Attend fires at all times. Completely put out fires before you leave.
Pets
Pets must be on a leash no longer than nine feet. Owners must be in control of pets at all times and must clean up pet waste.
From town: Go 22 mi E on Sterling Hwy to milepost 72.5, then 8 mi S on Skilak Rd.
Clean bathrooms, quiet camping spots. Bring bug spray and bear spray.
Amazing views and great facility, there are local bears so plan on locking up food. Bring in firewood as there is no cutting but each camp has a fire ring with grill and table.
It was great! The drive in was not very promising as far as the forest and wildlife was concerned due to last year's wildfires. However I was pleasantly surprised when we got to upper skilak and I found most of the trees still intact and all of the campsites looking great. As far as the wildlife was concerned we had a black bear make an appearance on our road in and while at camp a moose walkthrough. Being from Alaska the moose did not bother us but those at the sites around us must have been from somewhere in the lower 48. Overall it was a great trip with lots of kayakinglittle bit of fishing and plenty of stories by the fire. Those who may be wondering there are plenty of RV sites and tent sites. Skilak is an every summer multiple times kind of thing. If you haven't been you live in Alaska you need to go. if you're not from Alaska make it one of your stops while you take your tour. And on a side notefor those of you who want your kids off of electronic devices there is little-to-no cell service or if you just need to have an excuse to get off your own.
As soon as we pulled up, there was a mama bear and her two cubs playing in the grass. Avoid the bathroom - it’s pretty nasty and best to go in the woods. The lake was stunning and plenty of hikes to check out. Get a boat tour if you can to explore nearby ranges.
My second favorite site. Great location and scenery. Clean restrooms. Potable water available via hand pumps. A small creek for back ground noise, birds,bears Etc. No fires now...be very careful on the lake. Wear a PFD!
