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Map showing campground location near Kasilof, Alaska
Camper submitted image from Johnson Lake State Recreation Area CampgroundView 11 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Kasilof, Alaska

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Anglers casting lines for rainbow trout will find Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground positioned along the shoreline of its namesake lake near Soldotna. The state-managed facility accommodates both RVs up to 35 feet with full hookups and walk-in tent sites, operating from May through October at rates ranging from $20 to $120 per night.

The campground's 51 sites follow the lake's edge, providing direct water access through a boat launch that serves jet skiers, motorboats, and paddlers. Allen W. notes that "shallow warmer waters provide for good swimming as well," while stocked rainbow trout create fishing opportunities from both shore and boat during late summer months. A day-use area features covered pavilions sheltering picnic tables, with fire pits and built-in grills nearby.

Summer brings crowds, particularly during hot July days when locals seek lake access. Noise levels and activity increase significantly during peak season, though late-season camping offers quieter conditions. The facility provides well water, dumpsters, and clean restroom facilities, though no showers are available. Camp hosts maintain the grounds throughout the operating season.

For campers exploring beyond this lakeside location, camping near Kasilof includes several RV parks within a few miles of Johnson Lake.

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Location

Public Campground

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground is located in Alaska

Detail location of campground

Directions

At approximately mile post 110 on the Sterling Highway turn onto Johnson Lake Road, then turn onto Tustumena Lake Road, take the first right into the Johnson Lake SRA.

Address

PO Box 1247
Soldotna, AK 99669

Coordinates

60.2966195 N
151.26584496 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/3/26

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/3/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 2 users
    Last on 4/3/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Reservable
  • Electric Hookups
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sewer Hookups
  • Water Hookups
  • 30 Amp Hookups
  • 50 Amp Hookups

Drive Time

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted clean facilities and excellent lake access for fishing and water activities. Seasonal crowding affects the experience, with peaceful off-season visits but busy summer conditions.

Marin T.
Reviewed Aug. 18, 2024

Fun place!

The toilets were very clean. No showers though like the app says. I saw a moose when I got out of my tent in the morning!

Site11
Month of VisitAugust
Michael V.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Aug. 11, 2022

Campground right on the pond.

Used to party at this lake as a local in the late 90’s early 2000’s.

Nice little tent camping campground. There used to have spots big enough for RV’s but no hook ups.

Siteany
Month of VisitSeptember
T
Reviewed Apr. 17, 2021

Walk-in camping worth it!

Such an awesome lake. We pretty much had the area to ourselves. The walk-in campsites are spacious. We had easy access to the lake. Trout were abundant.

Sitewalk in
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground by Teresa S., April 17, 2021
  • Review photo of Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground by Teresa S., April 17, 2021
  • Review photo of Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground by Teresa S., April 17, 2021
  • (5) View All
Allen W.
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2018

Johnson Lake: Family Camping

Following the shoreline of Johnson Lake, this tidy little campground makes for a fun summer stop with the family. A boat launch provides water access to anyone looking to play with jet skis, motor boats, or canoes and kayaks. shallow warmer waters provide for good swimming as well.

Stocked by fish and game; the later summer months can provide good fishing for Rainbow Trout. Both shore and boat fishing can provide success to the right angler. Just gotta bring the right set up!

A nicely set up day use area is avaIlable nearby as well. Large awnings cover anywhere from 2 to 4 picnic tables providing dry areas. Fire pits and built in BBQ‘s are close by each awning.

Late June and July finds this campground very busy, especially during hot days when locals are looking to escape the sun. noise levels and lake activity can get pretty high at these times. The rest of the year these issues are less likely.

One of my favorIte campgrounds growing up, I could be found here most summer days with a lIne in the water or swimmIng. Now a days I use the day use area occasionally for gatherIngs wIth friends and some BBQin. I tend to avoid the campgrounds durring the summer months because of the overcrowding, but late season camping and fishing can be peaceful and quiet.

Need to knows

  • 51 total spaces.
  • Good for both tent and motor home camping.
  • Well water and dumpsters are provided.
  • Bathrooms are available.
  • Excellent Trout fishing in later summer months.
  • Camp hosts can be intrusive.
  • Review photo of Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground by Allen W., July 25, 2018
  • Review photo of Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground by Allen W., July 25, 2018
  • Review photo of Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground by Allen W., July 25, 2018
  • (6) View All
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a map of Johnson Lake Campground?

To find a map of Johnson Lake Campground, check the Alaska Department of Natural Resources website, which typically provides official maps and layouts of state recreation areas. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game might also offer maps since the lake is stocked for fishing. For the most current and detailed information, you can contact the Alaska State Parks office that manages the Kenai Peninsula area. Printed maps are often available at the campground entrance or from local visitor centers in Soldotna.

Where is Johnson Lake Campground located in Alaska?

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area Campground is located on the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska, near the communities of Kasilof and Soldotna. This tidy lakeside campground sits along the scenic Johnson Lake shoreline, providing a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area. The campground is situated in a relatively accessible part of the Kenai Peninsula, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors exploring south-central Alaska.

What recreational activities can I do at Johnson Lake?

Johnson Lake offers abundant recreational opportunities including fishing for trout, which are stocked in the lake and reportedly plentiful. Water activities are popular, with options for swimming in the relatively warm, shallow waters during summer months. The lake is suitable for boating with motor boats, jet skis, canoes, and kayaks, all accessible via the provided boat launch. Wildlife viewing is another attraction, with visitors occasionally spotting moose and other wildlife. The peaceful setting makes it ideal for family outings, relaxation by the water, and enjoying Alaska's natural beauty.

What amenities are available at Johnson Lake State Recreation Area?

Johnson Lake State Recreation Area offers clean toilet facilities (though no showers), a boat launch for water access, and spacious walk-in campsites. The campground has spots that can accommodate both tent camping and RVs, though there are no hookups available for recreational vehicles. The campground is well-maintained with a tidy appearance. The lake access is convenient from the campsites, making it easy to enjoy the water. Wildlife sightings, including moose, are possible within the recreation area.

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