13 Scenic Campgrounds in Seward Alaska (Map & Pricing!)
Can you go camping in Seward? What are the best campgrounds in Seward, Alaska?
This charming coastal town, nestled between the glacier-dusted Kenai Mountains and the bountiful waters of Resurrection Bay, offers the perfect mix of breathtaking views, beautiful wildlife, and scenic campsites.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper or are breaking out your sleeping bag for the first time, the campgrounds in Seward are some of the best you can find in the Last Frontier. Having lived on the Kenai Peninsula ourselves for several months between the summer and winter months with camping being our primary form of accommodation, we have a few personal favorite campgrounds that we’re excited to share with you!
In this post, we’ve not only curated a list of the best Seward campgrounds including their operating hours, cost, and a general overview of the amenities at each one, but we’ve also provided a list of the best RV parks, our expert advice for camping on the Kenai Peninsula, a Seward campground map, and answered some essential questions for planning your trip.
Campgrounds in Seward Alaska
It’s no secret that visiting Alaska is expensive, which is why so many people who visit in the summer opt for camping over relying on extravagant accommodations.
These campgrounds will range in price and amenities with many of them booking up in the winter prior to the upcoming summer months (i.e. 2025 campsites will be released and booked in mid-January 2025).
This is not a complete list of campgrounds in the area, but we did our best to only provide business with nice scenery, friendly attendants, affordable campsites, and decent amenities. If you’re hoping for more of a “glamping” retreat, then you should consider looking into Orca Island Cabins!
1. Seward Waterfront Campground
If you’re looking for a campground that boasts its incomparable views, then Seward Waterfront Campground is for you! Overlooking the iconic Resurrection Bay, this campground offers a panoramic views of the Kenai Mountains and the bay that connect with the North Pacific Ocean.
Every campsite offers its own breathtaking view, ensuring you get a slice of this picturesque beauty no matter where you pitch your tent. Plus, you have one of the best chances in town of being greeted by wildlife at all times of the day!
When it comes to pricing, Seward Waterfront Campground ranges from $25-70 per night for tent versus RV sites (as do all City of Seward campgrounds)! It is on the expensive side for campgrounds, but we can attest to the views you’ll get each day being worth the extra cost.
This spot is ideal for those who are flexible and easy-going since tourists typically enjoy walking down the beach to soak up the views as well, regardless if they’re paying campers. So, if you don’t mind a bit of foot traffic near your camp, then this is one of the best campgrounds in Seward, Alaska!
2. Exit Glacier Campground
For campers who crave a quiet retreat, Exit Glacier Campground is a top-tier choice. This highly-rated campground in Seward, Alaska, is nestled in the wilds of the Kenai Fjords National Park, offering 12 designated free camping spots with two of these being wheelchair-accessible.
All sites here operate on a first-come, first-serve basis, which means a bit of spontaneity might come into play if you don’t get a spot. The campground also features a covered common area for cooking, but we suggest bringing along some cleaning supplies in case the camper before you didn’t clean up after themselves.
We do need to note that fires within the campsites and pets are not allowed to ensure the preservation of the environment. The facility is typically well-maintained with clean facilities, so you should be set up for a comfortable camping experience if you can snag a spot.
What we love about the Exit Glacier Campground is its commitment to privacy. Each campsite is well-spaced, and, if you’re lucky, some sites offer an amazing view of Exit Glacier! But, bear spray is required and strict food policies are in place since your chances of coming across a wild animal here are heightened.
We believe it’s worth it though since you’ll be just steps away from a walking trail that takes you right to the glacier, so you’ll never be far from some truly spectacular sights!
3. Iditarod Campground
For those of you who prefer a camping experience that’s a bit more raw and unfiltered, the Iditarod Campground is just the ticket. Now, we’re not going to sugarcoat it – this is a very basic “campground” – if you can even call it that.
It’s more like a large parking lot with one porta-potty without any amenities like bathrooms or dedicated cooking areas. But, when we say it more than makes up for it with some truly stunning views, we’re not lying!
It’s an excellent spot for wildlife watching, with frequent sightings of whales, seals, sea otters, and eagles (perfect for photographers) and the views are just stunning.
The Iditarod Campground is a fantastic option for those who value the scenery over creature comforts. Costs range between $25-70 per night, so it’s a relatively affordable choice for those looking to experience the Alaskan wilderness on a budget.
Just remember that this probably isn’t somewhere for anyone seeking a bit of comfort, but if you have an RV and don’t need a place to dump sewer or fill up on water, then this is the campground!
4. Williams Campground
Williams Campground offers an authentic, tent-only camping experience that helps make you feel like you’re in nature, all the while you’re just steps away from downtown Seward.
Tucked away among tall trees, this well-maintained campground also has secluded spots for those who like a bit of privacy. The location is close to both the ocean and downtown areas, providing easy access to water adventures as well as bars and restaurants.
Most campsites here come equipped with a picnic table and fire ring so you’ll be able to enjoy some stunning views with plenty of spots to sit and relax.
There’s also plenty of open space for kids to run around and play, making it a great pick for family camping! When nature calls, you’ll find relatively clean portable toilets on-site for your convenience.
There are about 30 campsites in total, with some offering ocean views, all for between $11-15 per night. Williams Campground is one of the most affordable options for those seeking the classic camping experience!
5. Resurrection South Campground
Another City of Seward campground operating with standard rates between $25-70 per night, the Resurrection South Campground is fitted with grassy sites dotted with trees and plenty of ocean views!
Thanks to its location, you’ll also be just a few minutes from the docks where most fishing charters depart making it a popular stay for anglers.
Campsites here can accommodate both RVs and tents and each site features a firepit and picnic table, perfect for families and couples. Nature lovers will be thrilled with the abundance of wildlife commonly viewed from this campground! We’ve seen everything from humpback calves to eagles here.
Basic bathroom facilities are on-site for your convenience, and a shower house is available for those wishing for a bit more comfort during their camping experience. Though, we wouldn’t expect much more than lukewarm water throughout your stay.
With its fantastic ocean views and natural ambiance, Resurrection South Campground offers an immersive camping experience which is why it often gets booked up many months in advance.
6. Harborside Campground
While Harborside Campground is an extremely basic campground with minimal amenities (and we do mean minimal to its fullest extent), it brings forth an unfiltered camping experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in nature.
There are porta-potties available, but do note that there is no on-site camp host so if you have any issues, getting in touch will be a bit of an event, Nevertheless, what it lacks in facilities, it more than makes up for with its exceptional views of the Kenai Mountains.
Imagine waking up to a splendid sunrise with a whale tail in view – that’s what you’ll find here. Harborside Campground is a no-frills option that provides practically nothing but the raw beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
If you were hoping for few other tourists, then this is the place to go! Just remember to bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer since they may run out.
7. Alice Campground Seward
Alice Campground is a truly stunning camping spot that offers the best of both worlds: mesmerizing ocean views and the majestic backdrop of the mountains. Strategically located right on Seward Harbor, it provides an excellent spot for fishing and wildlife watching, making it a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts.
The campground offers both RV and tent sites, making it a versatile option for all types of campers. With its fantastic views and close proximity to nature, it’s a popular choice among families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
A note for those who value their creature comforts – the showers are a half-mile walk from the campsite, so plan accordingly. However, the distance is a small price to pay considering the views and close proximity to downtown Seward, plus the walk is quite scenic!
Being a city-owned campground, the standard rates of $25-70 per night apply.
8. Seward KOA Journey
Pretty much the crowning jewel of campgrounds in Seward, Seward KOA Journey prides itself on its exceptional maintenance and cleanliness.
This campground offers outstanding facilities, including pristine showers and new bathrooms, elevating your camping experience to a whole new comfort level. Water, electricity, and sewage hookups are available at most spots, with a community sewage dump spot also provided for your convenience.
The campground features a range of accommodation options, from cozy cabins to spacious RV and tent sites, catering to all kinds of campers. You’ll also find an on-site host and a well-stocked store carrying everything you could need during your stay.
However, there is one thing to bear in mind before making your reservation: the campground is situated close to a dog kennel, so the chances are high of hearing barking.
Despite this minor drawback, the Seward KOA Journey remains a highly sought-after camping spot due to its top-notch facilities and excellent maintenance. Plus, it’s one of the only
campgrounds in Seward, Alaska with cabins!
RV Campgrounds in Seward Alaska
Now, not all of these RV campgrounds are strictly for RVs (some have tent sites, as well), so be sure to do your research if you are hoping for an RV-specific experience.
Also, not all RV sites include hookups in Alaska (resources are limited in some areas), so if this is something you need, be sure to look into that and even talk to someone at the campground before making your Seward, AK camping reservation.
9. Stoney Creek RV Park
Located in the peaceful outskirts of town, Stoney Creek RV Park is a luxury retreat for campers. Primarily hosting RV sites, but with a few tent spots available for traditional camping enthusiasts, this RV Park has a mix of gravel and grass sites.
Some of these sites are located on a glacial creek, with every site being about 30 feet wide and 50 feet long so RV’s with slide outs can easily fit! Their site even mentions that they can accommodate big rigs.
Serviced with water and electric hookups as well as a dump station and satellite TV, the park ensures a heightened stay for all. For the tech-savvy campers, you’ll be pleased to know that wifi is available, though its effectiveness may vary between sites.
To top it all, the park also offers laundry services – a real perk for those on extended trips! Stoney Creek RV Park, with its quiet surroundings and comprehensive services, emerges as one of the best RV campgrounds in Seward!
10. Resurrection North Campground & RV Park
Resurrection North Campground & RV Park is an exciting destination for campers who crave a vibrant community atmosphere.
Packed with RV sites, the campground is known for its bustling energy, with quiet hours often bending to the lively spirit of its guests. However, if you were hoping for a tent site, this might not be your first pick as the area is dominated by RVs.
The camp spots are also quite close together, fostering a sense of camaraderie amongst campers, although they may not provide much in the way of privacy. But what really makes this campground special are the truly breathtaking views of Resurrection Bay.
What’s more, the campground is conveniently located within walking distance of Seward, making it easy to explore the local attractions during your stay. So if you’re a fan of lively campsites and don’t mind the close quarters, Resurrection North Campground & RV Park might just be the place for your next adventure.
11. Resurrection Campground & RV Park
Resurrection Campground & RV Park is another city-owned location situated on the waterfront, also offering incredible views of the bay and the surrounding Kenai Mountains.
This site is particularly suited for visitors with RVs, as the facilities are geared towards self-sufficiency and are rarely maintained. Also note that this might not be the best choice if you’re looking for a place with clean, accessible showers.
But if you’re all set with your own amenities and just want to relax in the midst of insanely gorgeous views, this campground is a fabulous choice.
An added bonus for families is the nearby playground, which is great for keeping the young ones entertained while meals are being made. Plus, it’s within walking distance from downtown Seward if you want to do some souvenir shopping!
12. Miller’s Landing North Campground & RV Park
If you’re a camping enthusiast seeking beautiful views and amazing hiking trails, look no further than Miller’s Landing North Campground & RV Park. Adventure seekers will appreciate the close proximity to the Lowell Point trailhead, a starting point for several great hiking trails.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that the roads leading to the site could use some TLC, as they are riddled with potholes. However, it is conveniently located near shower facilities!
Miller’s also providing different lodging options including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins starting around $40 per night across two different campgrounds (Miller’s Landing and Miller’s Landing Annex).
Some campers have also noted that cleanliness might not be the campground’s strongest point. But, if food is an important part of your camping experience, you’ll be happy to hear that the campground features an on-site café with delicious food if you don’t feel like doing much outdoor cooking!
13. Spring Creek Campground & RV Park
Spring Creek Campground & RV Park is a true gem for campers who appreciate the raw beauty of nature and fishing opportunities. The campground offers splendid views, but the real main attraction here is the chance to fish for salmon, making it a perfect spot for amateur and experienced anglers alike.
While the campground does offer porta-potties, it’s classified as a dry campground, meaning there’s no running water available. This makes it ideal for RV campers who come well-equipped but might pose a challenge for those hoping to pitch a tent.
The barebones amenities may not be to everyone’s liking, but if you’re an RV camper who loves to be surrounded by nature and enjoys a good day of fishing, Spring Creek Campground & RV Park is a wonderful option to consider for your next camping trip.
Another city-owned campground, the standard rates of $25-70 per night apply here, as well.
Tips for Camping in Seward AK
Having tent camped, car camped, and straight up slept on the ground all over Alaska ourselves, here are our expert tips for camping in Seward!
- Get the Right Gear: Alaskan weather is notoriously unpredictable. Be sure to pack layers of clothing, a high-quality tent, sleeping bags rated for sub-freezing temperatures, and two tarps – one for under the tent and one for over.
This also means you’ll need additional supplies including plenty of strong rope, a hatchet, extra tent stakes (not the cheap, easily bendable ones), and a shovel for making a mote if the campground allows. - Respect Wildlife: Seward is home to diverse wildlife including bears, moose, coyotes, foxes, etc. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed or approach the animals!
- Pack Out Your Trash: Leave no trace. Carry out everything you bring in to maintain the pristine nature of these sites and to deter luring animals into a human-friendly zone. This keeps both you, the wildlife, and the environment safe!
- Be Bear Aware: Be knowledgeable about bear safety. Store food in bear-resistant containers and carry bear spray. Don’t leave anything (not even camping chairs since bears will think of them as toys and come back to human sites looking for more) out at your site when you’re not around and actively using it.
Any and all scented products (even chapstick) attracts animals, so ensure everything is away before you go to sleep for the night. - Make Seward Campground Reservations in Advance: Popular campgrounds fill up extremely quickly during peak season, so it’s advisable to book your Seward, Alaska campsite well in advance.
Most private campgrounds open their sites at some point during the winter before the summer season, and the city-owned campgrounds typically open in mid-January before the summer season. - Familiarize Yourself with the Local Rules: Each campground has specific rules about fire safety, pet policies, etc., so make sure to familiarize yourself with these before your trip.
Having camped with a dog for several months ourselves across Alaska, we can personally say we never once stayed at a campground in Alaska or Canada that allowed dogs to be off leash or tied up and left outside when the owner wasn’t present.
Those who did were asked to leave the campground immediately with no refund! - Prepare for the Elements: Even in summer, nights can get quite chilly, especially in Seward where you’ll be close to the ocean. Also, rain is common in Alaska, so ensure your gear is waterproof and you have your site set up to deter water from entering your tent.
We always fold one tarp beneath our tent, tie one up above our tent, and ensure our tent is positioned at the highest point of the site. This really helps ensure water doesn’t make your tent too wet. - Explore Safely: Hiking and exploring are a major part of booking campgrounds in Seward, particularly because the Kenai Fjords National Park is right at your doorstep.
Take proper precautions by always letting someone know where you’re going, carrying a map, a compass, and enough food and water (not too much food though… you don’t want to attract the bears!) - Enjoy the Midnight Sun: In summer, daylight can last up to 20+ hours, so you can easily plan your activities accordingly and make the most of the extended daylight.
Stock up on firewood days before you think you’ll need it because we promise you that everyone else in Seward has the same idea, and you may end up with no firewood when you need it. - Embrace the Adventure: Above all, remember to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty around you! Camping in Seward, Alaska is an unforgettable adventure that offers opportunities to connect with nature by fishing, hiking, wildlife spotting, and simply connecting with your loved ones.
Don’t stress too much about the weather or other elements out of your control during your trip.
↪️Pro Tip: If you’re thinking of camping on Resurrection Bay, don’t forget that you’ll be just steps away from the stunning Kenai Fjords National Park! While in Seward, it’s imperative to check out at least one of these 9 BEST Kenai Fjords Tours before going home.
Campgrounds in Seward Alaska Map
If you want to take a closer look at the city campgrounds in Seward, AK, then visit the City of Seward website for a map and list.
To see all of the privately-owned campgrounds we mentioned above as well as all of the city-owned campgrounds, you can look at the map below!
FAQ
Here, we’ve answered some important questions for your Seward Alaska camping trip!
Is There Free Camping in Seward, Alaska?
There’s really only one spot to find free camping on the Kenai Peninsula that’s actually a designated “campground”, and that’s at Exit Glacier Campground. They have 12 free spots that operate on a first-come first-serve basis, and they’re usually snagged quite quickly by local hikers.
There’s also what is known as “dispersed camping” in Alaska, which includes free areas to pitch a tent with extremely limited facilities and no real campsites. Dispersed camping may be prevalent in extremely remote towns and areas of the Last Frontier, but don’t expect to find this very close to tourist destinations.
Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the national forests in Alaska (Chugach National Forest is widely known for this), so there are plenty of spots to lay your head for free if you don’t want to pay the astronomical prices of Seward hotels in the summer. Note that you’ll have quite the drive into town if you do this, however.
Just be sure there is no signage forbidding overnight parking or tent camping prior to setting up camp for the night. If there is a sign, it invalidates the overall rule of free camping in the area.
Is Tent Camping Safe in Alaska?
Overall, tent camping is safe in Alaska as long as you take all of the necessary precautions. Wildlife can be unpredictable and the weather can change quickly, so it’s important to be prepared for all scenarios.
Preparing for a possible interaction with wildlife is essential to ensuring a safe night outdoors in the 49th state. You should start by setting up your site with a proper food storage method. This means nothing with a scent, even chapstick, should be brought with you into the tent!
Everything should be stored in a sealed bin (a cooler with a lockable seal will work) inside of your locked car. Noise is also a great deterrent of wildlife, so if you really don’t want animals walking across your tent site post-midnight, then consider having a consistent form of noise playing (i.e. music, bells, etc.)
We also recommend bringing bear spray, one can per two people is generally good as long as you don’t plan on splitting up. This can and should come with you into the tent in addition to headlamps for every person, flashlights, etc.
⚠️ Pro Tip: A fed bear is a dead bear. Food and other items will entice them to return to popular human locations which in turn makes them far too comfortable with being around people, and therefore very dangerous. PLEASE do not leave any food or items outside of your vehicle when you are not at the campsite. This keeps both you and the local wildlife safe!
Where Can I Park my RV in Alaska?
You will typically need to find an RV-dedicated campground to park your RV in Alaska. Owing to their size, most RVs will not fit in standard street parking spots. However, depending on the size of the site, you may be able to find some dispersed camping spots in the national forests where you can park your RV free of charge.
Seward offers a few RV-specific campgrounds which are listed above. These sites will normally have the necessary hookups for your vehicle (water, electricity, and sewage) as well as spacious lots to ensure that you won’t feel too cramped in your site.
Each campground and individual sites differ, however, so be sure to check the amenities included before booking.
Are there Campgrounds Along the Alaskan Highway?
There are a ton of campgrounds along the Alaskan Highway! The small town of Dawson Creek in British Columbia, Canada is the Mile 0 marker of the Alaska Highway.
It then follows a 1,173-mile road through the Yukon and into the first stop in Alaska, Alcan border, before continuing an additional 192 miles through the 49th state and ending at Delta Junction.
Along our drive across the entirety of the Alaskan Highway, we passed dozens of campgrounds (both dispersed and paid) with MacDonald Campground (shown above) on Muncho Lake and Caribou RV Park in Whitehorse being among our favorites!
How Many Campgrounds are in Alaska?
There are over 400 campgrounds in Alaska including both paid and dispersed sites. Of course, campgrounds open and close regularly, so don’t assume that any particular campground will be operating during your visit.
Alaska offers an unrivaled camping experience, with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the opportunity to connect with untouched nature. From the serene solitude of dispersed camping to the shared camaraderie of established campgrounds, Alaska’s camping experiences are as varied and vast as the state itself.
And Seward is no exception! A very popular tourist destination, the campgrounds in Seward provide a great place for visitors to relax and take in the breathtaking scenery of Resurrection Bay and the Kenai Fjords National Park!
