Clam Gulch State Recreation Area

The feel

The campground sits on bluffs overlooking Cook Inlet, with a panoramic view of Mount Iliamna, Mount Redoubt and Mount Spurr. The sites spread along a campground loop road, and a beach access road runs down to the saltwater beach.

Moose, bald eagles, gulls and many small birds and mammals live in the area. Wildflowers grow through the recreation area, including lupine, Jacob's ladder, wild geranium and the prickly rose. Clam digging on the beach below is closed until further notice.

What to expect

Layout and setting

A 495 acre recreation area with 116 to 120 campsites on the bluffs, a campground loop road and a beach access road. Picnic shelters are on site.

Check-in and stay

Camping is limited to 15 days.

Parking and rig size

RVs are limited to 35 feet.

Fees and reservations

$20 per site per night. First come, first served, with no reservations.

Hazards

Off-road vehicles are restricted to the campground loop road, the beach access road and the saltwater beach. The speed limit on all recreation area roads is five miles per hour, and drivers and passengers under age 18 must wear helmets.

Bathrooms and water

Toilets and water are on site, and the area is an ADA facility.

Season and access

Open May to September. Turn on Clam Gulch Road at Sterling Highway mile 117.5.

Mingo says

Come for the mountain view from the bluffs, because the razor clam beach is shut to diggers. Camp between May and September.

Before you go

• Bring $20 per site for the night and $5 for parking.
• Call (907) 262-5581 with questions about the recreation area.
• Keep ATVs to the campground loop road, the beach access road and the saltwater beach, and wear a helmet if you are under 18.
• Keep your RV to 35 feet or under.

Written October 2026. Sources are listed at the end of this page.