Overview
The Seward Waterfront Park Campground is a hidden gem located in the picturesque town of Seward, Alaska. This campground offers stunning views of Resurrection Bay and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is situated on a scenic waterfront, providing easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and boating opportunities. With its unique blend of natural beauty and small-town charm, the Seward Waterfront Park Campground is an ideal base for exploring the best of Alaska’s wilderness.
One of the unique features of this campground is its proximity to the Seward Small Boat Harbor, where visitors can launch their kayaks or rent a boat to explore the bay. The campground is also within walking distance to downtown Seward, where visitors can find a variety of restaurants, shops, and cafes. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the Seward Waterfront Park Campground has something for everyone.
Location & Directions
The Seward Waterfront Park Campground is located at GPS coordinates: 60.1042, -149.4423. From the nearest city, Anchorage, take the Seward Highway (AK-1) south for approximately 120 miles. The campground is located near highway mile marker 0, just past the Seward Small Boat Harbor. The road conditions are generally good, but be aware that the Seward Highway can be prone to construction delays and rough pavement.
To get to the campground from Anchorage, follow these driving directions:
- Take the Seward Highway (AK-1) south from Anchorage
- Continue on the Seward Highway for approximately 120 miles
- Turn left onto Ballaine Boulevard
- Follow Ballaine Boulevard for 0.5 miles
- Turn right onto Harbor Street
- The campground will be on your left
Campground Details
The Seward Waterfront Park Campground has a total of 80 campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and walk-in sites. The campground offers a range of amenities, including:
- 44 RV sites with electric and water hookups
- 20 tent sites with access to potable water and restrooms
- 16 walk-in sites with access to potable water and restrooms
The maximum RV length is 40 feet, and the campground has a dump station available for a fee. The current rates are:
- Tent sites: $20 per night
- RV sites: $30 per night
- Walk-in sites: $15 per night
Reservations can be made through reserve.gov, and the campground is open from May 1 to September 30. Check-in time is 2 pm, and check-out time is 12 pm.
Facilities & Amenities
The Seward Waterfront Park Campground offers a range of facilities and amenities, including:
- Potable water available at each campsite
- Flush toilets and vault toilets available throughout the campground
- Fire rings and picnic tables at each campsite
- Bear boxes available for food storage
- Boat launch available at the Seward Small Boat Harbor
- Dump station available for a fee
- Firewood available for purchase at the campground
Waterfront Access
The campground offers stunning views of Resurrection Bay and surrounding mountains, and visitors can access the waterfront via a short walk from their campsite. The waterfront area is perfect for:
- Fishing for salmon and halibut
- Boating and kayaking
- Wildlife viewing for sea otters, seals, and whales
Hiking & Activities Nearby
The Seward Waterfront Park Campground is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with a range of hiking trails and activities nearby. Some popular options include:
- Mount Marathon Trail: a challenging 3.5-mile hike with stunning views of Resurrection Bay
- Two Lakes Trail: a 2.5-mile hike through a scenic forest and along the shores of two lakes
- Kenai Fjords National Park: a stunning national park with glaciers, fjords, and wildlife viewing opportunities
Other activities in the area include:
- Fishing for salmon and halibut
- Boating and kayaking
- Berry picking for wild blueberries and salmonberries
- Wildlife viewing for sea otters, seals, and whales
Fishing Opportunities
The Seward area offers a range of fishing opportunities, including:
- Salmon fishing in Resurrection Bay and surrounding streams
- Halibut fishing in the Gulf of Alaska
- Trout fishing in nearby lakes and streams
The best techniques for fishing in the area include:
- Trolling for salmon and halibut
- Casting for trout and salmon
- Bottom fishing for halibut and rockfish
Be sure to check with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for current regulations and fishing restrictions.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the Seward Waterfront Park Campground is from May 1 to September 30, when the weather is warmest and the days are longest. However, be aware that this is also the peak tourist season, and the campground can be crowded.
To avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season, from April 15 to May 1 or September 15 to October 15. The weather can be cooler and wetter during this time, but the scenery is still stunning and the campground is less crowded.
Be aware that mosquito season typically runs from June 15 to August 15, and can be intense in the area. Bring plenty of insect repellent and protective clothing to avoid getting bitten.
Wildlife & Bear Safety
The Seward area is home to a range of wildlife, including:
- Brown bears
- Black bears
- Moose
- Eagles
To stay safe, be sure to:
- Store food and trash properly in bear-proof containers
- Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch for signs of wildlife
If you encounter a bear, stay calm and follow these steps:
- Remain calm and speak in a calm voice
- Give the bear plenty of space and back away slowly
- Avoid eye contact and do not run
- Use bear spray if the bear approaches you
What to Bring
When visiting the Seward Waterfront Park Campground, be sure to bring the following essential gear:
- Tent or RV
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Cooking gear and utensils
- Clothing and layers for changing weather conditions
- Rain gear and waterproof jacket
- Insect repellent and protective clothing
- Bear spray and knowledge of how to use it
- First aid kit and emergency supplies
Be aware that the campground has a firewood policy, and only allows firewood that is purchased on-site or brought from outside the area if it is certified as being free of pests and diseases.
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The nearest town to the Seward Waterfront Park Campground is Seward, which offers a range of amenities, including:
- Restaurants and cafes
- Shops and galleries
- Gas stations and fuel
- Grocery stores and supplies
Other nearby attractions include:
- Kenai Fjords National Park
- Exit Glacier
- Harding Icefield
- Resurrection Bay
Day trip ideas from the campground include:
- Whale watching tours in Resurrection Bay
- Kayaking or boat tours to nearby glaciers and fjords
- Hiking to nearby trails and scenic viewpoints
- Fishing for salmon and halibut
Tips from Experienced Campers
Experienced campers recommend the following tips for visiting the Seward Waterfront Park Campground:
- Book your campsite early, as the campground can fill up quickly during peak season
- Bring layers for changing weather conditions, as the temperature can drop significantly at night
- Be prepared for mosquitoes and bring plenty of insect repellent
- Take advantage of the waterfront access and enjoy the stunning views and wildlife viewing opportunities
- Be respectful of the environment and follow all rules and regulations to minimize your impact
Insider tips include:
- Site 17 is a favorite among campers, with stunning views of the waterfront and surrounding mountains
- Cell service can be spotty in the area, so be sure to check with your provider before arriving
- Noise considerations are important, as the campground can be crowded and noisy during peak season
- Sunrise and sunset are not to be missed, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Resurrection Bay