Russian River
4.2759 reviewsSeward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, SEWARD, AK, USA, 99664
Quick Facts
400 ftPrice
$23 - $33/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
83 campsites
Season
Open with full servi...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
400 ftPrice
$23 - $33/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
83 campsites
Season
Open with full servi...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsRussian River
$23.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees for the peak season (June 5 to August 12, 2025): Standard Nonelectric $23-$33; RV Nonelectric $23-$33. Additional fees may apply for changes,...
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Standard Site Fee$23.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$23.00
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What Campers Say
4.27
Satisfactory
Based on 59 reviews
101 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspaciousstafffriendly
Some mention
noise
"Russian River Campground is highly praised for its scenic beauty, excellent fishing opportunities, and proximity to hiking trails. Visitors appreciate the spacious and private campsites, but some have noted issues with noise, waste management, and the rough access road."
Fees & Passes at Russian River
$23 - $33/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Maximum stay of 3 nights per visit.
Cancellation: $10 cancellation fee; additional charges apply for late cancellations (e.g., forfeiting first night'...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official US Forest Service website.
Best Time to Camp at Russian River
Summer transforms this riverside sanctuary into a land of endless daylight and perfect outdoor temperatures. With comfortable highs hovering around 57°F and refreshing nights dipping to 47°F, the climate strikes an ideal balance for both active adventures and peaceful evenings around the campfire. While gentle rains occasionally sweep through the valley, they only enhance the lush beauty of the surrounding forest and keep the rivers flowing strong. The famous Alaskan midnight sun bathes the campground in golden light well into the evening hours, giving you more time to soak in every moment of your wilderness escape.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June 5 to August 12, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open with full services May-September. Closed August 15, 2024, for construction.
- Current Alerts: The campground will be closed for construction from August 15, 2024. The access road has been described as rough and affected by frost heaves.
About Russian River
Nestled in the heart of where two legendary Alaskan rivers converge, Russian River Campground offers an unforgettable wilderness experience. Here, the crystal-clear waters of the Russian and Kenai Rivers create a natural paradise that draws anglers from around the world during the spectacular salmon runs. Beyond the world-class fishing, this impeccably maintained haven invites you to explore winding hiking trails and witness Alaska's magnificent wildlife in their natural habitat. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the wild surroundings, featuring fresh water access, clean vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, designated fire pits, and smooth paved roads that make arrival a breeze.
The Russian River Campground caters to tent and RV campers, offering spacious sites with essential amenities but no utility hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis land holds stories that stretch back thousands of years. Just a short journey from the campground, the K'beq Interpretive Site invites visitors to step into the rich cultural heritage of Alaska's indigenous peoples, where tribal members share time-honored traditions and deep connections to this sacred landscape. Adventure seekers can also explore the legendary Resurrection Pass Trail, a historic pathway that once connected coastal communities and gold rush settlements, now offering modern travelers a chance to walk in the footsteps of prospectors, pioneers, and native peoples who shaped this rugged frontier.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this riverside sanctuary into a land of endless daylight and perfect outdoor temperatures. With comfortable highs hovering around 57°F and refreshing nights dipping to 47°F, the climate strikes an ideal balance for both active adventures and peaceful evenings around the campfire. While gentle rains occasionally sweep through the valley, they only enhance the lush beauty of the surrounding forest and keep the rivers flowing strong. The famous Alaskan midnight sun bathes the campground in golden light well into the evening hours, giving you more time to soak in every moment of your wilderness escape.
ElevationPerched at a gentle 400-foot elevation, the campground enjoys a unique microclimate that delivers refreshingly cool temperatures even during summer's warmest days. This modest altitude provides sweeping vistas of the surrounding wilderness while keeping you close enough to the river valleys to enjoy easy access to fishing spots and riverside trails. The elevation creates perfect conditions for comfortable camping, with crisp mountain air and panoramic views that stretch across the stunning Kenai Peninsula landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Chugach National Forest, where towering peaks rise dramatically from ancient valleys and glacier-fed rivers carve their way through pristine wilderness. At 400 feet elevation, the campground serves as your gateway to this untamed paradise of rugged mountains draped in emerald forests and crystalline waters teeming with life. Keep your camera ready—this is prime territory for Alaska's iconic wildlife. Brown and black bears fish alongside the rivers, while eagles soar overhead and moose browse through the verdant undergrowth. Every sunrise paints the jagged peaks in alpenglow, and every sunset transforms the forest into a mystical realm of shadows and golden light.
Geological RegionThe Eastern Kenai Peninsula reveals Alaska's geological drama at its finest. Here in the Chugach National Forest, ancient tectonic forces have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking contrasts—sharp-edged mountains plunge into deep fjords, while massive glaciers continue their slow, powerful work of carving new valleys. The Russian River Campground sits at the heart of this geological wonderland, where pristine rivers born from glacial melt wind through valleys that tell the story of ice ages past. This dynamic landscape supports an incredible diversity of ecosystems, from coastal rainforests to alpine meadows, creating one of North America's most spectacular wilderness areas where the forces of nature remain vibrantly alive and ever-changing.
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Campsite details
Sites SizeThe sites are spacious, well-leveled, and provide privacy. Visitors have commented on the large size of the sites, which are suitable for RVs of varying sizes.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are spaced to offer privacy, with some reviewers describing them as secluded.
Total Campsites83 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites away from the loop entrance for more privacy. RV owners should confirm site layouts due to reported mismatched configurations.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in information not provided.
Check-out
Official check-out information not provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 3 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information unavailable
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features paved roads and loops, with spacing between sites for privacy. Some sites may have reverse layouts for RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen with full services May-September. Closed August 15, 2024, for construction.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available for walk-ups, especially outside June and July.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee; additional charges apply for late cancellations (e.g., forfeiting first night's fee for individual campsites if canceled within one day of check-in).
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Russian River Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities that cater to anglers, hikers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The area is known for its excellent salmon fishing, scenic hiking trails, and opportunities to observe wildlife such as bears and moose.
Hiking
Two main trails originate from the campground: the Russian Lakes Trail, which leads to the Russian River Falls (2.3 miles to the falls with an additional 19 miles to the Upper Trailhead), and the Angler's Trail, which is 1.25 miles long and provides access to 22 sustainable river points. Visitors frequently highlight the scenic beauty of the trails.Fishing
The Russian River is a top destination for fishing sockeye salmon, rainbow trout, and silver salmon. Specific fishing retention seasons apply, such as sockeye salmon from June 11th to August 20th. Reviewers note the excitement of fishing alongside bears and describe the river as the best spot for red salmon fishing.Biking
Biking opportunities are available, although specific trail details for biking are limited.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently observe brown and black bears, especially during the salmon runs. The area also provides opportunities to see moose and other wildlife.Cultural and Educational Programs
Nearby attractions like the K'beq Interpretive Site provide cultural and educational experiences, including interpretive walks and insights into archaeological findings.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned, but generator rules suggest quiet hours after 11 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is known for bear activity. Visitors must stay cautious, store food safely, and carry bear spray.
Active alertsThe campground will be closed for construction from August 15, 2024. The access road has been described as rough and affected by frost heaves.
Weather at Russian River
13
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
The closest emergency services are likely in Seward or Soldotna, approximately 40 to 110 miles away, but specific facilities were not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 5 to August 12, 2025.
Trash and recyclingDumpsters are available for trash disposal. Some reviewers noted issues with waste removal, including the importance of promptly emptying dumpsters to prevent bear encounters.
Proximity to water featuresLocated between the Russian and Kenai Rivers, with easy access to fishing spots and trails leading to Russian River Falls.
Common complaintsNoise from neighboring campers, rough access roads, and occasional generator misuse are common complaints. Some users have noted overcrowding during peak fishing season.
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, though some reviews highlight occasional management issues.
Campground Map
Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, SEWARD, AK, USA, 99664
Driving directionsFrom Anchorage, Alaska, travel south for 110 miles to Milepost 54 on the Sterling Highway, Alaska State Highway 1.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, but the access road is described as rough with frost heaves that can be challenging for large RVs.Nearby places
Seward (110 miles, approximately 2 hours), Soldotna (40 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies may be available nearby, with showers and other small amenities accessible at Wildman's down the road. The exact distance and options for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are unspecified.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
59 reviews
Russian River is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Russian River Campground is highly praised for its scenic beauty, excellent fishing opportunities, and proximity to hiking trails. Visitors appreciate the spacious and private campsites, but some have noted issues with noise, waste management, and the rough access road.
Review Summaries
Based on 59 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers highlighted the campground's cleanliness, well-maintained facilities, proximity to fishing spots, and friendly staff. Many reviewers appreciated the scenic trails, the chance to observe...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on the rough access road, occasional noise from other campers, limited cell service, and the lack of water or electric hookups. Some visitors also mentioned issues with waste...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bear spray, hiking in groups, and being prepared for encounters with wildlife. It's advised to make reservations well in advance during peak fishing season and to pack...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, especially during the salmon runs in June and July. Visitors note that the campground can become very crowded during this time. Early or late in the season offers a quieter...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Best place to camp in Cooper Landing for red salmon fishing. Well developed trails along the river. Extremely busy during the first two weeks of the fishing season." - Sixonenorth
"Stayed at the...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 012: Complaints about unclean conditions and an ash pile.
Campsite 040: Complaints about noisy neighbors.
Campsite 020: Issues with the rough access road.
Campsite 074: Positive mention of...
Based on 59 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Users have not reported specific accessibility features, but the paved roads and spacious sites suggest that the campground is accessible to some degree.
Based on 59 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Some reviewers mentioned concerns about unleashed dogs and missing pets, which detracted from their experience.
Based on 59 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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