Loading details...
A small free campground in Kenai National Wildlife Refuge offering three tent-only sites along Rainbow Lake at mile 16 on Swanson River Road near Sterling. The rustic facility provides vault toilets, water access via hand pumps, and a boat ramp but features a challenging layout with limited turnaround space (RV limit approximately 32 feet), making it advisable to walk in from the road to confirm site availability before entering. Three sites are positioned directly on the lake shore offering swimming access in summer and ice fishing opportunities in winter. Visitors can fish for rainbow trout, paddle or canoe on the lake, and enjoy campfires in a serene spruce and wetland setting. The unpaved Swanson River Road consists of loose gravel with washboard sections. NO FEE with standard 14-night camping limit.
Rainbow Lake Campground at mile 16 Swanson River Road is one of 13 developed campgrounds in the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge operated first-come, first-served
3 campsites with RV size limit around 32 feet, NO FEE, 14 night camping limit. Water, latrines and boat ramp. Mile 16 Swanson River Road
3 tent-only sites at mile 16 Swanson River Road. Three sites right on the lake. No turnaround except using individual sites, recommended to walk in first. Popular for swimming and ice fishing. Quiet retreat for fishing rainbow trout, paddling, and enjoying wildlife like moose and loons
Kenai National Wildlife Refuge main contact: (907) 262-7021, 33398-B Ski Hill Road, Soldotna, AK 99669
Phone: (907) 262-7021 for Kenai National Wildlife Refuge headquarters
CampgroundTour strives to provide accurate campground information but cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy. Information is subject to change — please confirm details with the agency managing this facility before booking or making travel decisions. See our Terms of Use.