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Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Homer, Alaska · Kenai Peninsula County

Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (KBNERR) is located in South Central Alaska, five hours southwest of Anchorage. At 370 square miles (an area larger than Teton National Park), it is the largest Reserve in the NERR system. The bay, which is flanked by spruce forests, extensive tidal flats, and 15 alpine …

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About Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (KBNERR) is located in South Central Alaska, five hours southwest of Anchorage. At 370 square miles (an area larger than Teton National Park), it is the largest Reserve in the NERR system. The bay, which is flanked by spruce forests, extensive tidal flats, and 15 alpine glaciers, supports an active halibut and salmon sports fishing industry. The KBNERR office is located within the Islands and Ocean Visitor Center in Homer, population 5,300. KBNERR staff engages in coastal and marine research and year-round education, including public programs and estuary walks. Road access to the bay is limited, and much of the region is only accessible by boat.

Plan Your Visit to Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve

Heading to Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve?

No central reservation system listed for Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/3090) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve?

The reserve is approximately 150 miles south of Anchorage, on the western coast of the Kenai Peninsula.

How do I contact Kachemak Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve?

You can reach the park at phone: 907-226-4656 or email: terry.thompson@alaska.gov.