Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
- Sites at Exit Glacier are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and are usually full by early evening in the July and August peak season. It’s wise to come early in the day and mid-week, to increase your odds of nabbing one of the coveted spots.
- There are also a couple of cabins available in the summer months (through recreation.gov) and a winter cabin that can be reserved by calling the park directly.
- If you can't secure a campsite at Exit Glacier, you may have better luck in the nearby Chugach National Forest or at one of the campgrounds managed by the Seward Parks and Recreation Department.
When to Go
Kenai Fjords is beautiful year-round, but if you’re coming to camp, July and August are the best (albeit busiest) months. The Exit Glacier area is usually blocked to vehicular traffic from late October until sometime in the spring due to snow, but you can still drive as far as you can and then go the rest of the way by snowmobile, fat bike, dogsled, or snowshoeing.
Know Before You Go
- Cooking and storing food at individual campsites is prohibited.
- Kayaking and beach camping is popular in the park, and permits are not required, except for on beaches owned by Port Graham Village Corporation.
- Abandoned mines sit within the park, some of which could contain explosives, unsafe chemicals, or other hazards. Be mindful and avoid investigating any old structures you come across.
- Winter shuttles, boat tours, dog sled tours, and guided ice-climbing expeditions are available in the winter months.
Kenai Fjords National Park
See dozens of glaciers amidst rugged sea and forest at this natural wonder.
Set between Kachemak Bay State Park and the town of Seward, this massive national park protects the Harding Icefield and the wilderness around it. The only established campground in the park is in the Exit Glacier Area, which has 12 walk-in sites—two of which (sites #1 and #12) are ADA-accessible—free of charge, along with vault toilets, a pump with potable water, and a cooking area with bear-safe food storage. Backpacking is also an option, but even experienced backpackers will find this park a major challenge, so it’s wise to go with a professional guide.
Set between Kachemak Bay State Park and the town of Seward, this massive national park protects the Harding Icefield and the wilderness around it. The only established campground in the park is in the Exit Glacier Area, which has 12 walk-in sites—two of which (sites #1 and #12) are ADA-accessible—free of charge, along with vault toilets, a pump with potable water, and a cooking area with bear-safe food storage. Backpacking is also an option, but even experienced backpackers will find this park a major challenge, so it’s wise to go with a professional guide.
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
Tips for Snagging a Campsite Reservation
When to Go
Kenai Fjords is beautiful year-round, but if you’re coming to camp, July and August are the best (albeit busiest) months. The Exit Glacier area is usually blocked to vehicular traffic from late October until sometime in the spring due to snow, but you can still drive as far as you can and then go the rest of the way by snowmobile, fat bike, dogsled, or snowshoeing.
Know Before You Go
Frequently asked questions
Can you stay in Kenai Fjords National Park?
Yes, you can stay in Kenai Fjords National Park, but lodging options are limited. There are no hotels or lodges within the park itself. However, you can camp at the Exit Glacier Campground, which is a walk-in tent campground with 12 sites available on a first-come, first-served basis. Exit Glacier Campground is open from May to September, weather permitting.
Additionally, there are numerous lodging and camping options in the nearby town of Seward, which serves as the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park. You can find cabins, campgrounds, and RV parks in the area. Some options include fishing camps and forest campgrounds.
Is Kenai Fjords National Park worth visiting?
Yes, Kenai Fjords National Park is definitely worth visiting. The park, located on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, offers stunning natural beauty, unique wildlife encounters, and a variety of outdoor activities. Some highlights of the park include:
Overall, Kenai Fjords National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and those seeking outdoor adventure. Keep in mind that the park is quite remote, so be prepared for limited facilities and services, especially when it comes to camping options. You can find more information about camping near Kenai Fjords National Park on Hipcamp.
How many days do you need in Kenai Fjords National Park?
It is recommended to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Kenai Fjords National Park to fully experience and appreciate the park's beauty, wildlife, and activities. This allows time for exploring the park, taking a boat tour or kayaking trip, and hiking on the various trails available.
Are there bears in Kenai Fjords National Park?
Yes, there are bears in Kenai Fjords National Park. Both black bears and brown bears (also known as grizzly bears) can be found in the park. It's important to practice bear safety measures, such as proper food storage, making noise while hiking, and carrying bear spray to ensure the safety of both humans and bears.
Public campgrounds (book externally) —