Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

4.50

9 reviews

PO Box 1247, Soldotna, Alaska, 99669, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Alaska

Quick Facts

144 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

48 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

144 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

48 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens booking site

Official Website

Get Directions

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees apply and must be paid immediately after selecting a site. The Disabled U.S. Veteran Camping Pass is valid for free camping in all state...

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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Provider

9072625581

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What Campers Say

4.50

Recommended

Based on 9 reviews

7 Google reviews

"User feedback highlights the campground's balance of accessibility and remote feeling. One user remarked, 'Not far from civilization. And yet still the remote feeling of Alaskan camping.'"

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO Box 1247, Soldotna, Alaska, 99669, United States

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

PO Box 1247, Soldotna, Alaska, 99669, United States

Driving directionsAt approximately mile post 110 on the Sterling Highway turn onto Johnson Lake Road, then turn onto Tustumena Lake Road, take the first right into the Johnson Lake SRA.

The campground is accessible via paved roads and appears accessible year-round, with no explicit mention of seasonal closures or difficult terrain.

Nearby places

Kasilof (15 miles south of Soldotna, approximately 20 minutes). Soldotna is a regional hub within driving distance.

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are likely in Soldotna or Kasilof, with general amenities available at both locations.

Best Time to Camp at Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

Johnson Lake reveals its character through Alaska's dramatic seasons. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the forest floor and creating a hushed, magical atmosphere. As spring awakens the wilderness, the brief but glorious summer months arrive, bringing cool, comfortable days perfect for outdoor adventures. These precious warm weeks offer ideal camping conditions, with temperatures that keep you energized for hiking and paddling while ensuring restful nights under star-filled skies.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Fishing, boating and wildlife viewing are prime in summer months.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall likely good for wildlife and colors, but specific fall details are limited.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring likely brings thaw, active wildlife and fishing, but specifics are sparse.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Top 22% in AK

Winter described as a crystalline wonderland; however, winter amenities/access unclear.

Planning Tips

About Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

Nestled within 332 pristine acres of Alaskan wilderness, Johnson Lake State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its serene waters and towering forests. This natural sanctuary invites you to cast a line into the mirror-like lake, paddle through morning mist in your canoe, or simply lose yourself in the rhythms of the wild. Whether you're setting up camp beneath ancient evergreens or watching for the telltale ripples of feeding fish, every moment here connects you to Alaska's untamed beauty.

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area offers various camping accommodations, including non-electric campsites and designated tent sites, catering to both individual and group campers.

Weather and SeasonsJohnson Lake reveals its character through Alaska's dramatic seasons. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the forest floor and creating a hushed, magical atmosphere. As spring awakens the wilderness, the brief but glorious summer months arrive, bringing cool, comfortable days perfect for outdoor adventures. These precious warm weeks offer ideal camping conditions, with temperatures that keep you energized for hiking and paddling while ensuring restful nights under star-filled skies.

Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where dense forests of spruce and birch frame the tranquil waters of Johnson Lake. This vibrant ecosystem pulses with life—majestic moose wade through shallow coves at dawn, while both black and brown bears forage along wooded trails. Lucky visitors might glimpse the elusive lynx padding silently through the underbrush, or watch playful squirrels and snowshoe hares dart between the trees. The interplay of water, forest, and wildlife creates an ever-changing tableau that captures the essence of Alaska's raw magnificence.

Geological RegionSituated in the spectacular Kenai/Prince William Sound region, Johnson Lake occupies a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and time. This remarkable area showcases Alaska's diverse ecosystems, where pristine lakes nestle among dense woodlands, creating ideal habitats for the region's iconic wildlife. The interweaving of water and forest defines this geological wonderland, where visitors can experience the powerful forces that shaped Alaska's dramatic terrain while enjoying close encounters with moose, bears, lynx, and other creatures that call these wild lands home.

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Stay Limit

Camping stays are limited to 15 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per standard campsite and 30 for group campsites.

Groups

The group campsite accommodates up to 30 people and allows for pets, providing a spacious option for large gatherings.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of one East Loop with individual campsites and a separate Group area for large gatherings.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up is likely available but not explicitly detailed in the source.

AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible boat ramps, campsites, drinking water, parking, picnic areas, and picnic shelters, making it friendly for visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeCampsites generally span up to a maximum equipment length of 35 feet, with smaller tent sites accommodating equipment up to 25 feet.

Total Campsites48 campsites

Amenities available

Potable water

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

The Johnson Lake State Recreation Area offers a blend of recreational activities for visitors. Among the highlights are fishing for rainbow trout, canoeing, boating, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.

FishingFishing is a popular activity at Johnson Lake, particularly for rainbow trout. As per user reviews, 'You wouldn't believe how good the fishing is here.'

BoatingBoating and canoeing are supported with accessible lake entry points, enhancing water recreation opportunities.

Wildlife viewingThe area is home to abundant wildlife including moose, black and brown bears, lynx, squirrels, hares, and other creatures. Visitors are reminded to respect wildlife and maintain a clean camp for their protection.

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include interactions with moose, bears, and other wildlife. Campers are advised to help maintain clean camps and avoid feeding animals.

Fire PolicyFires are only permitted within provided fire grates or on the saltwater beach. Cutting live trees or shrubs is prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are between 11 PM and 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are likely in Soldotna, Alaska, but detailed information is not explicitly provided in the sources.

Trash & RecyclingDumpsters are provided on-site for waste disposal. Campers are encouraged to maintain cleanliness to protect the habitat and wildlife.

Water FeaturesJohnson Lake is directly accessible for fishing and canoeing.

Camp Host"Within Facility Camp Host" is available.

Weather at Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

Reviews

4.5

9 reviews

Recommended

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User feedback highlights the campground's balance of accessibility and remote feeling. One user remarked, 'Not far from civilization. And yet still the remote feeling of Alaskan camping.'

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciated the excellent fishing opportunities and the blend of accessibility with a remote Alaskan camping experience.

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Not far from civilization. And yet still the remote feeling of Alaskan camping.' - Richard Dickawicz 2. 'You wouldn't believe how good the fishing is here. Great campground.' - Che Christophersen

Based on 9 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026

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