Kasilof Area State Parks (Kenai Peninsula)

The town of Kasilof is located fifteen miles south of Soldotna along the Sterling Highway on the Kenai Peninsula. It is a popular summer recreational destination. Camping, wildlife viewing, scenic views, and fishing at the Kasilof River and at Johnson Lake are some of the reasons why.

History

This area of the Kenai Peninsula has been occupied by people for over 8,000 years. The plentiful wildlife and abundant salmon are some of the lifelines for people of the past and present. It is believed that Eskimo-speaking people inhabited the area, followed by Dena'inas, whose descendents still live in the area. Russian settlers built Ft. George in the Kasilof area in 1786. Today about 1,000 people from a variety of cultures live in the area.

Wildlife in the Area

Moose, black and brown bear, lynx, squirrels, hares and other creatures are plentiful in all of these areas. Enjoy and respect them for this is their home. Please help them by not feeding them and keeping a clean camp.

Crooked Creek State Recreation Site

is a short walk from the confluence of Crooked Creek and the Kasilof River. There are 80 campsites and 36 day use parking sites. Crooked Creek SRS is most popular in May and June for king salmon fishing from the bank of the Kasilof River. Additional fisheries include a small steelhead run in the spring and fall, and Dolly Varden, sockeye and silver salmon in the summer.

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area

is a nice, wooded, 332 acre area surrounding Johnson Lake. Camping, fishing for rainbow trout, canoeing and walking are popular activities. There are 48 campsites, 16 day use parking sites, and a group picnic area (groups of over 12 people require reservations).

Kasilof River State Recreation Site

is located in a wooded setting along the Kasilof River, adjacent to the Sterling Highway bridge. Kasilof River SRS is a popular put-in and take-out spot for drift fishing on the Kasilof River. Bank angling for most species is available both up and down stream from the camping area. There are 10 campsites, 25 day use parking sites, and a boat launch.

Source: Alaska State Parks.

For more information on Alaska State Parks, visit theAlaska State Parks web site.

Alaska National Parks

Alaska State Parks by Region

Alaska State Parks by Name