Description
Ninilchik State Recreation Area, the name Ninilchik means "peaceful settlement by a river", is located on the west side of the Kenai Peninsula, about 40 miles south of Soldotna. It was settled in the early 1800's by Russian colonists. They subsisted on fishing, hunting, trapping and gardening. When Alaska was sold to the United States, many of these settlers decided to stay on. Some of the old buildings still exist in the Ninilchik village and many descendants of the original families still live here.
Today, Ninilchik has become a popular staging area for world class salmon and halibut fishing. Mt. Iliamna and Mt. Redoubt, both active volcanoes, greet visitors to the area. While you are in Ninilchik, be sure to see the experience the historical Ninilchik Village and the Russian Orthodox Church.Geography:
It is surrounded by spruce, birch and quacking aspen. It offers trails to the surrounding fishing sites and it is not uncommon to have a moose, porcupines, or black bears roaming through the park.
Recreation:
Ninilchik SRA is most popular for folks that want to fish the rivers or just have a nice campout with family and friends. It is close to the salt water beaches where a popular activity is digging for Razor Clams. Deep Creek State Rec Area is close by where one can go watch the tractors launch salt water boats in the hunt for Salmon and Halibut fishing. Ninichilk has trails that lead over to another campground where it leads down to popular spots on the Ninilchik river to fish for salmon during salmon fishing.
Facilities:
The campground has 43 individual sites with picnic tables and fire rings. There are no hook ups for RVs. A campground host in available to answer any questions and provide information regarding park rules; camping, where to buy firewood etc. The campground has two sets of vault latrines and two dumpsters for park users. There is a state park dumpstation located across the highway at mile 135 Sterling Hwy. The Picnic shelter contains two large picnic tables and two fire rings; it is located just past the campground host site on the right. The shelter is covered from the weather elements. It is recommended you make your reservations well in advance.
Nearby Attractions:
A general store is located at mile 136. Dump stations are located throughout the town. Propane and fuel for Motor homes can be accessed at the nearby Tesoro Gas Station.
