Both RV and tent camping at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is allowed throughout most of the area. Vehicles cannot drive off-road and must park in either developed campgrounds provided by the Refuge, or in previously-used campsites along the road. All camping at Kenai NWR is free.
Camping at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge supports camping throughout much of its land. However, camping with a vehicle generally demands you remain at one of sixteen (16) developed campgrounds inside the refuge.
- These campgrounds are free, no reservations, first-come, first serve
- There are no hookups. Some campgrounds offer running water. All campgrounds have a pit toilet and picnic tables. Some have fire rings.
Boondocking
Boondocking at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is allowed, but you must set up camp at least 1/4 mile away from: Sterling Highway, Skilak Lake Road, Swanson Road, and Swan Lake Road.
Vehicles cannot drive off-road and must park in previously used campsites along other dirt roads. Backpackers and tent campers must still respect the 1/4 mile minimum setback from the above named roads.
Maximum Camping Stay
Maximum camping stay at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge is 14-days in a 30-day period across the refuge. Once you’ve reached the 14-day limit, you cannot camp anywhere in the refuge until the 30-day period has expired.
- Russian River Campground is limited to 2-days.
- Hidden Lake Campground is limited to 7-days.
Campfires
Campfires in developed campgrounds are allowed but restricted to fire rings, grates, barbeques, or stoves. Campers may cut firewood, but only dead or down wood may be collected.
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.
Map of Campgrounds at Kenai National Wildlife Refuge
Notes
Source for all the information above comes from Kenai NWR, Camping.
More About Boondocking in National Wildlife Refuges
- A Guide to Boondocking in National Wildlife Refuges
- Laws and Regulations for Camping in National Wildlife Refuges