The Buskin River State Recreation Site is a 168-acre park set along the Buskin River in Kodiak Island, Alaska. Surrounded by tranquil riverfront, scenic forest and plenty of wildlife, tent and RV campers can look forward to getting back to nature with activities from hiking and biking, to bird watching and fishing on the to-do list.
There’s plenty to enjoy in the great outdoors at the Buskin River State Recreation Site. Hike along historic trails between old WWII buildings, fish for sockeye salmon in the Buskin River, or mountain bike along self-guided trails through the forest. Or simply sit back and relax at the park’s local beach. The riverfront and surrounding woodlands are great for wildlife watching with brown bears, harlequin ducks and harbor seals calling the state park home.
The campground itself is very basic with some spots suitable for RVs as well as an overflow area that caters to big rigs up to 40 feet in length. Camping sites are available on a first come, first served basis so make sure you arrive early to grab a spot.
The entrance to Buskin River State Recreation Site can be found off Rezanof Drive not far from downtown Kodiak and the airport. The park is well sign posted so you shouldn’t have any trouble along the Kodiak road system.
Once inside the park, there are dirt roads leading to the campground. Several spots are suitable for RVs. Once you’ve set up camp you can get around by hiking or biking along the park’s historic trails.
Buskin River State Recreation Site is home to just 15 campsites. The campground is catered for tent campers and there are some sites suitable for RVs up to 40 feet in length. There is also an overflow area for larger rigs.
Each campsite has a picnic table and firepit. There are no hookups for RVs. Drinking water, vault toilets and firewood is available. Facilities include two picnic shelters and an ADA-friendly fishing platform near the Buskin River.
Buskin River State Recreation Site is pet-friendly. Campers can stay here for a maximum of 14 days.
Anglers will find Buskin River State Recreation Site a great spot for fishing. The Buskin River is filled with sockeye, coho and pink salmon as well as dolly varden trout. Don’t miss the annual pink salmon derby in July/August that’s great for families. Campers and day visitors can enjoy sport fishing for two Buskin River sockeye salmon and two coho salmon per day.
If you’re a mountain biker, you’ll be in your element at Buskin River State Recreation Site. A network of historic military roads are available in the park that connect old WWII structures hidden in the forest on the northern side of the park. Bring your bikes along for an adventurous weekend exploring Buskin River State Recreation Site.
Buskin River State Recreation Site is a great spot for hikers with plenty of historic trails to explore along the banks of the Buskin River. Don’t forget your camera and your binoculars - the park is well known for its bird watching and eagle sightings here are common.
Once part of Fort Greely, a United States army post during World War II, the Buskin River State Recreation Site has an abundance of old WWII structures located within the forest. Whether you're camping here or visiting for the day you can take your time strolling through the forest and admiring these historic structures.
Picnics are popular at Buskin River State Recreation Site. There are two picnic shelters available at the campground that are great for year-round use for both campers and day visitors alike. Alternatively, you can head to the beach for a winter picnic and enjoy combing the beach for shells and interesting rocks.
The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Visitor’s Center can be found at the entrance to Buskin River State Recreation Site. Inside you will find some interesting displays and exhibits detailing information about the state of Alaska. Don’t miss the chance to watch a 17 minute video about the island and wildlife in the area.
