The best camping near Captain Cook State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Captain Cook State Recreation Area adventure.

Search for agates and wildlife or go ice-fishing at this coastal spot.  

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BRIDGE CABIN at Bear Creek Lodge

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Hope, AK
Welcome to The Bridge Cabin, a charming dry cabin nestled on two private acres in the historic town of Hope, Alaska. Part of the Bear Creek Lodge community, this cabin offers a serene and secluded retreat surrounded by natural beauty. The cabin itself is one of eight individual cabins within the Bear Creek Lodge property. It provides a cozy and rustic atmosphere, perfect for immersing yourself in the peaceful ambiance of the Alaskan wilderness. While the cabin does not have plumbing or electricity, there is convenient access to an old outhouse nearby. For added comfort and convenience, guests of The Bridge Cabin have access to modern indoor facilities located across Bear Creek at the main lodge. Here, you'll find shared showers, toilets, and sinks, ensuring that you can freshen up after a day of outdoor adventures. During your stay, be sure to explore the nearby amenities, including a coffee shop at the lodge and the Dirty Skillet evening dinner house. Whether you're seeking outdoor activities or simply want to relax and unwind in a tranquil setting, The Bridge Cabin offers the perfect retreat in scenic Hope, Alaska.
Pets
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from 
$156
 / night

The best camping near Captain Cook State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

On the northwestern shores of the Kenai Peninsula, this quiet state park is a popular spot to hunt for agates or do a bit of bird-watching in the summer months, while winter is popular for ice fishing on the park's Stormy Lake. If you want to linger, the park's Discovery Campground features 53 campsites for tent or RV camping (with no size limits), along with toilets, a potable water source, and a couple of picnic shelters. There's also a bit of room for primitive tent camping right by the park entrance and a boat-in site on Stormy Lake.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Sites at the park’s Discovery Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis. As such, it’s wise to plan your visit to start mid-week for the best chance at a spot.
  2. You can camp at the Discovery Campground for a maximum of 14 days at a time.
  3. The campground is managed by a concessionaire, Alaska Recreational Management, who can provide more information about camping.
  4. If you can't secure a spot at Captain Cook, you may have better luck seeking out private alternatives and Hipcamps around nearby Kenai.

When to go

If you're not a fan of cold weather (or aren't prepared to camp in the snow), then the best time to visit the park is in the summer, when the temperatures are relatively warm, at least by Alaskan standards. Winter is popular for ice-fishing and cross-country skiing. If you're hoping to see the northern lights, you'll have the best chances if you visit between August and April.

Know before you go

  • The best place to pick up groceries and supplies is in the town of Kenai, about a half-hour drive from the recreation area.
  • Black bears live in this area, and they can be relentless. As such, it’s wise to keep all food, cooking supplies, and toiletries (and anything with a scent) securely locked in a hard-sided vehicle or bear box.
  • Dogs are welcome, but they must remain leashed at all times.
  • The summer months get around 18 or 19 hours of daylight, so light sleepers may want to pack a sleep mask.
  • RV hookups are not available at the campground.

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