Cooper Creek South
4.4755 reviewsSeward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, Seward, AK 99664, USA
Cooper Creek South
$23.00 - $33.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$23.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $23 to $33 per night depending on the site type. Additional reservation service fees may apply: $8 for online bookings, $9 through the contact center, and $3 for in-person reservations.
About this campground
Nestled at the confluence of Cooper Creek and the mighty Kenai River, Cooper Creek South beckons adventurers seeking tranquility in Alaska's untamed wilderness. This intimate 20-site campground sits beneath a canopy of towering spruce and cottonwood trees at 400 feet elevation, where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Here in the heart of the Chugach National Forest, you'll discover a serene basecamp that perfectly balances accessibility with the peaceful solitude that makes Alaska camping unforgettable.
Cooper Creek South Campground caters to standard nonelectric campsites for a variety of camping preferences. RV camping is supported with gravel parking aprons.
Historical SignificanceAdventure and history intertwine at Cooper Creek South, where the legendary Resurrection Pass Trail serves as your gateway to 38 miles of stories etched into the Alaskan landscape. This historic route, carved by prospectors and pioneers, winds through terrain that whispers tales of gold rush dreams and Native Alaskan heritage. As you explore these ancient pathways, you'll encounter cultural sites that reveal how generations of travelers have been drawn to this remarkable corner of the Chugach, each leaving their mark on the land's rich tapestry.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the sweet spot of Alaskan weather to Cooper Creek South, with pleasantly mild to moderate temperatures that invite long days of exploration. While the occasional rain shower keeps the forest lush and rivers flowing strong, gusty winds sometimes sweep through the valley, adding drama to the landscape. As autumn yields to winter, the campground transforms into a snow-draped wonderland where temperatures plunge and pristine powder blankets the forest floor, creating an entirely different but equally magical experience for hardy cold-weather campers.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 400 feet above sea level, Cooper Creek South offers the perfect elevation for those seeking Alaska's raw beauty without the challenges of high-altitude camping. This sweet spot provides refreshingly moderate temperatures throughout the camping season, allowing you to wake up energized rather than breathless. The gentle elevation means you can focus on adventure rather than acclimatization, making it an ideal choice for families and casual campers who want to experience the Chugach's majesty without the thin air of mountain peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient spruce and cottonwood giants create cathedral-like groves, their branches framing spectacular views of the surrounding mountain amphitheater. The campground's prime location offers front-row seats to nature's grand performance: watch salmon leap upstream in the crystalline Kenai River, spot eagles soaring overhead, and marvel at the jagged peaks of the Chugach Mountains painting the horizon. Glacier-fed streams cascade through deep fjords in the distance, while closer to camp, the forest floor bursts with wildflowers and moss-covered logs that invite quiet contemplation.
Geological RegionCooper Creek South occupies a geological sweet spot where the raw power of the Chugach National Forest's formation is on full display. Ancient glaciers carved this dramatic landscape of soaring peaks and plunging fjords, leaving behind a 400-foot perch perfectly positioned among protective spruce and cottonwood forests. The campground sits in a region where tectonic forces created jagged mountain spires that pierce the sky, while patient rivers of ice sculpted valleys now filled with pristine, mineral-rich waters. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve, offering campers a front-row seat to millions of years of Earth's artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described, but users mention 'friendly and helpful' hosts who assisted campers with specific needs.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious, with one user noting, 'Our spot was huge and really felt like we had a good amount of privacy next to our neighbors.'
Sites PrivacyMany users mention good privacy between campsites due to vegetation. For example, 'Sites are very snug but the location is great!' and 'The sites were ready and exactly as expected.'
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the creek to reduce highway noise. Avoid sites close to the road for added privacy.
Best CampsitesSite #18 is frequently mentioned in user reviews as the best spot due to its proximity to the creek, offering a tranquil environment and minimizing highway noise.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in is generally after noon
- exact time not specified.
Check-out
- Check-out is before 11:00 AM
- exact time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Groups
No group camping information is available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes 20 sites laid out in loops, with some sites offering exceptional privacy and creek access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 23, 2025, and closes September 9, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability may be possible during off-season or non-peak dates. Some user reviews mention hosts accommodating walk-up visitors.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before check-in; however, cancellations close to the check-in date will incur fees ($10 cancellation fee plus the forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations). After the check-in date, modifications depend on local staff policies.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cooper Creek South offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy fishing for sockeye salmon on the Kenai and Russian Rivers, hiking and biking along the Resurrection Pass Trail, and wildlife viewing. Boating activities are also available.
Hiking
The nearby Resurrection Pass Trail is a 38-mile scenic trail suitable for hikers and bikers, climbing from 500 to 2,600 feet.Fishing
Fishing for sockeye (red) salmon is highly popular at the nearby Kenai and Russian Rivers. Both boat and bank fishing opportunities are available.Biking
Biking is allowed on the Resurrection Pass Trail, which offers a 38-mile adventure through scenic landscapes.Boating
Boating activities are supported, particularly for fishing on nearby rivers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is listed as an activity, though specific species are not detailed.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are not explicitly mentioned, though boating is listed as an activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated rings. Firewood must be purchased locally to prevent tree pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced, as noted in user reviews. Exact times are not provided.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are a recurring concern; attractants must be stored properly. Beetle infestations have caused tree clearing, affecting shade and scenery.
Active alertsEmergency prohibitions on tent and soft-sided vehicle camping may be issued due to bear incidents.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 8.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are likely in Seward or Soldotna, with hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations available in these cities. Exact distances are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 9, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available onsite, including dumpsters. However, one user suggested, 'It would be **REALLY NICE** if DNR/FS campsites had recycling containers.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated near Cooper Creek and the Kenai River, providing opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include proximity to the highway leading to noise disturbances, limited privacy due to site spacing, and issues with campsite maintenance such as overgrown areas or obstructive rocks.
HostHosts Julie and John are highly praised for their attentiveness, cleanliness, and hospitality. Some reviews note negative experiences with hosts, highlighting inconsistency.
Campground Map
Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, Seward, AK 99664, USA
Driving directionsFrom Anchorage, go south on Seward Highway to Sterling Highway. Turn towards Soldotna at the 'Y' junction. Cooper Creek Campground is at Milepost 50.7 of the Sterling Highway, on the opposite side of the river.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. It is situated close to Sterling Highway, making it convenient for travelers. However, proximity to the highway may result in noise disturbances, as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Seward (approximately 50 miles, 1 hour drive)
Soldotna (approximately 40 miles, 45 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Within a 5-mile drive, visitors can access a grocery store, laundry facilities, gas stations, charter fishing, ebike rentals, and tourist shopping. Additional amenities like a nearby restaurant are within walking distance.
Camper Reviews
4.5
55 reviews
Cooper Creek South is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is consistently praised for its cleanliness, privacy, and attentive camp hosts. Complaints focus on proximity to the highway resulting in road noise and occasional issues with campsite features such as large rocks obstructing RV access.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
- Clean and well-maintained facilities
- Friendly and helpful camp hosts
- Beautiful location near Kenai and Russian Rivers
- Spacious sites with good privacy
- Great proximity to fishing and hiking...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Proximity to the highway causing noise
- Lack of recycling facilities
- Specific site concerns such as rocks obstructing RV parking
- Some confusion with reservations and check-in process
Based on 55 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Book sites near the creek to minimize highway noise.
- Bring bear spray and store all attractants properly, as bear activity has been reported.
- Select sites with better vegetation for more...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season (May-September) sees the highest usage, with consistent praise for fishing and hiking opportunities. Off-season camping is quieter but still enjoyable for its clean facilities and scenic...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The campground is beautiful and I would love to come back here and camp!" - Nate Sims
"Camped during the off-season at #18 which seems like the best spot because it’s next to the creek." - Mandy...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site #18: Next to the creek, highly recommended for its noise-dampening quality.
- Site #6: Noted for large rocks obstructing RV parking.
- Site #21: Praised for its size and proximity to the river.
Based on 55 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are available.
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information is available regarding pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 55 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025