Kenai North Beach Camping

The feel

This is a stretch of sprawling sand at the mouth of the Kenai River, on the north beach of lower Cook Inlet at 600 South Spruce Street in Kenai. In July it is mobbed with dipnetters hauling reds, with Cook Inlet volcanoes in the view.

Camping here is beach camping, dispersed along the sand, and it runs only during the dipnet fishery. Outside that window locals walk, fish, roast hot dogs, fat bike and fly kites on the same beach.

What to expect

Layout and setting

Dispersed beach camping on open sand at the mouth of the Kenai, with dumpsters and beach access.

Check-in and stay

First-come.

Crowds and best time

The beach is especially popular in July because of the personal use dip net fishery, and camping runs July 10 to 31.

Parking and rig size

A large paved parking area. Vehicle traffic is allowed only to the right of the beach access.

Fees and reservations

Fees apply during the dip net fishery. Call (907) 283-8262 for the amounts. First-come, no reservations.

Bathrooms and water

Restrooms are available at the beach.

Season and access

Camping is available July 10 to 31, during the dip net fishery only.

Mingo says

Camping opens only for the fishery, so plan around the dipnet run rather than beach weather. Outside it, the beach is for walking and kites.

Before you go

• Call Parks and Recreation at (907) 283-8262 for the dipnet fee amounts, open Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM.
• Park on the paved lot and keep vehicles to the right of the beach access.
• Use the dumpsters on site for your trash.

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