Buskin River State Recreation Site

0 review

1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States

Fishing

Quick Facts

164 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

2 campsites

Season

No specific open and...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Alaska State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

164 ft

Price

$5/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

2 campsites

Season

No specific open and...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Alaska State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Buskin River State Recreation Site

$5.00 - $5.00 / night

Campsite Fees

All Kodiak road-based state parks have a $5 per vehicle day-use fee, which can be paid in cash or check at a self-payment fee station or via annual...

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

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8 Google reviews

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Campground Map

1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States

Buskin River State Recreation Site

1400 Abercrombie Dr., Kodiak, Alaska, 99615, United States

Driving directionsTo reach the park from the ferry dock and downtown, head south on Rezanof Drive going toward the airport for approximately 3.5 miles and make a left turn onto Buskin River Road, the park is approximately a quarter mile down the road. If starting from the Kodiak State Airport, make a right onto Rezanof Drive toward town and go approximately one half mile, turn right onto Buskin River Rd.

The park is easily accessible via paved roads from the ferry dock, downtown Kodiak, and Kodiak State Airport. Roads appear well-maintained for regular vehicular travel.

Nearby places

Kodiak is the nearest city, approximately 3.5 miles or less from the park.

Nearby supplies

Supplies such as groceries, fuel, and camping gear can likely be found in Kodiak, the nearest city.

Best Time to Camp at Buskin River State Recreation Site

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformation of coastal Alaska at Buskin River. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland where frost etches patterns on spruce boughs and snow blankets the historic military roads, with brisk winds carrying the scent of the nearby ocean. As summer arrives, the landscape explodes with life under predominantly clear skies punctuated by refreshing rain showers that keep the rivers flowing strong and the forests lush. Cool temperatures provide perfect conditions for active days of fishing and hiking, while the extended daylight hours of the Alaskan summer stretch your adventures well into the evening.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer likely best for salmon runs, beachcombing and hiking; described seasonal highlights imply peak use.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Salmon runs and wildlife viewing likely continue into fall, but exact seasonal timing isn't detailed.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Spring offers transitional scenery; salmon/timing details not provided so seasonality is uncertain.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Winter brings snow and frost but no winter recreation infrastructure; camping likely harsher.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: No specific peak season dates are provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: No specific open and close seasons are detailed. Camping is first-come, first-served.
Current Alerts: No current alerts or advisories are mentioned.

About Buskin River State Recreation Site

Where the emerald waters of the Buskin River meet the wild heart of Kodiak Island, adventure seekers discover one of Alaska's most rewarding outdoor experiences. Buskin River State Recreation Site beckons anglers from around the world to test their skills against the legendary runs of sockeye and coho salmon that surge through these productive waters. As you explore the towering spruce forests, you'll follow paths once traveled by WWII soldiers, now reclaimed by nature and frequented by majestic brown bears and soaring eagles. This first-come, first-served paradise offers authentic Alaskan camping where the sound of rushing water mingles with the calls of wildlife, creating an unforgettable symphony of the Last Frontier.

Buskin River State Recreation Site primarily offers first-come, first-serve camping sites suitable for RVs and tents. It also features group-friendly areas such as picnic shelters.

Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you wander along roads that once echoed with the footsteps of American soldiers stationed at Fort Greely during World War II. These weathered military thoroughfares and crumbling structures stand as silent sentinels to a pivotal moment in Pacific history, when Kodiak Island served as a strategic outpost defending America's shores. Today, nature has gently reclaimed these remnants of wartime vigilance, creating a fascinating blend where military heritage meets wilderness, offering visitors a unique opportunity to contemplate both human history and the enduring power of the Alaskan landscape.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of coastal Alaska at Buskin River. Winter brings a crystalline wonderland where frost etches patterns on spruce boughs and snow blankets the historic military roads, with brisk winds carrying the scent of the nearby ocean. As summer arrives, the landscape explodes with life under predominantly clear skies punctuated by refreshing rain showers that keep the rivers flowing strong and the forests lush. Cool temperatures provide perfect conditions for active days of fishing and hiking, while the extended daylight hours of the Alaskan summer stretch your adventures well into the evening.

ElevationNestled at near sea level along Kodiak's stunning coastline, Buskin River State Recreation Site offers easy access to both river and ocean environments without the challenge of significant elevation changes. This gentle terrain makes the campground accessible to visitors of all ages and abilities, while still providing the authentic wilderness experience that defines coastal Alaska.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient spruce forests create cathedral-like canopies above moss-covered WWII trails, and the life-giving Buskin River carves its silvery path to the sea. Along the riverbanks, lucky observers might spot harbor seals playing in the current or brown bears fishing for their next meal. The air resonates with the piercing cries of eagles and the gentle songs of countless bird species that call this diverse ecosystem home. Each bend in the trail reveals new wonders, from hidden historical artifacts to stunning river vistas that capture the untamed beauty of Kodiak Island.

Geological RegionRising from the depths of the Gulf of Alaska, Kodiak Island stands as a geological masterpiece within the renowned Kodiak Archipelago. At Buskin River State Recreation Site, visitors witness the dramatic intersection of land and sea that has shaped this region for millennia. Dense spruce forests carpet the ancient terrain, while coastal beaches reveal the constant dialogue between ocean and shore. This unique positioning creates a rich tapestry of ecosystems where maritime and terrestrial worlds blend seamlessly, punctuated by the fascinating remnants of WWII installations that add human layers to the island's deep geological story.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground includes picnic shelters and RV parking. Details about layout or loops are not provided.

Reservation PlatformsReservations cannot be made in advance, per authoritative sources.

Walk-in AvailabilityCamping sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No mention of the number of sites or specific patterns of availability.

Cancellation PolicyNo explicit cancellation policies are mentioned.

AccessibilityThe site includes accessible fishing docks, grills, parking, picnic areas, and vault toilets, making it a more inclusive option for visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites can accommodate equipment up to 40 feet in length.

PrivacyPrivacy levels at campsites are not explicitly mentioned in the source material.

Total Campsites2 campsites

Recommended SitesNo recommendations for specific sites are provided.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

A wide range of recreational activities can be enjoyed at Buskin River State Recreation Site, such as fishing for sockeye and coho salmon, hiking, mountain biking, beachcombing, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. The park’s proximity to WWII structures offers historical exploration opportunities.

HikingVisitors can explore old military roads that connect WWII-era structures hidden in the spruce forest on the north side of the park. These trails offer unique historical and scenic value.

FishingFishing is a major attraction, with the Buskin River being one of the most productive fisheries on the Kodiak road system. Anglers can fish for sockeye and coho salmon.

BikingMountain biking is supported, with trails following the old military road system.

Wildlife viewingVisitors can see a variety of birds and wildlife, including brown bears, eagles, harlequin ducks, and harbor seals.

Beach activitiesThe park features a popular beach for beachcombing and sun-soaking.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBrown bears are a notable hazard along the river corridor. Visitors should follow bear safety protocols.

Active AlertsNo current alerts or advisories are mentioned.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are available and are essential due to the presence of brown bears.

Fire PolicyNo specific fire policies are detailed.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are No quiet hours are mentioned.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services include the Kodiak hospital and local police station, both in the nearby town of Kodiak. The exact distances or locations are not provided.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the available data.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the Buskin River, a major fishing destination, and near the coast for beach access.

Camp HostNo information about campground hosts is available.