Karen Hornaday Park Trail

The feel

Short loops run through alder and open ground at a 40 acre city park at the north end of town. The trail leaves the parking area on the east side, passes a ball field and enters the alders. The park has a one-of-a-kind playground, two picnic shelters with BBQ grills, ball fields and natural areas, with a natural area along Woodard Creek on its eastern boundary.

The park is home to the Homer Little League Association and hosts events such as the Kachemak Bay Highland Games and KBBI's Concert on the Lawn. A campground sits on the wooded hillside above the park.

What to expect

Route and terrain

Loop, 1 mile in short segments of about 0.1 mile each, with about 40 ft of gain. Trail runs through alders and open ground. The Woodard Creek Nature trail is a spur from the south end of the park through the woods to Bartlett Street.

Time

10 minutes to 0.5 hour.

Parking

Ample parking off Karen Hornaday Road.

Fees and passes

The pavilions can be reserved for $25 for 4 hours or $50 for a full day. Campground sites are $30 per night.

Dogs

Allowed.

Kids

Kid-friendly, with a playground at the park.

Bathrooms and water

Seasonal restroom facilities at the park. The campground has potable water next to its registration kiosk and pit toilets.

Season and access

Open for hiking in all seasons.

Mingo says

The trails stay open in all seasons, but the campground only runs from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Plan an overnight for summer.

Before you go

• Campground sites at 360 W. Fairview Ave. are first-come first-serve with no reservations, and check in is at 2pm.
• Pay the $30 per night at the kiosk by cash or card; the maximum stay is 14 days.
• To book a pavilion for a group, reserve it through the City of Homer.

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