One of the five new concrete toilets recently constructed at Hidden Lake Campground, Kenai National Wildlife Refuge

Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and contractors recently completed a series of upgrades to the Hidden Lake Campground located within the Skilak Wildlife Recreation Area.  Over the past two years the improvements included road work along the 15,000 foot entrance road, 29 new concrete picnic tables, 10 fire grates, and 5 new concrete toilets.  The toilets are well lit, easy to clean, have sealed holding tanks, and include simplified door locking mechanisms.  They replace the last of the Refuge's old wooden pit toilet type outhouses, except those few that remain at remote cabin and camping areas away from the road system.  Hidden Lake Campground is one of the Refuge's most popular camping areas and includes 44 developed sites, a boat launch, trash pick-up, and drinking water.  A fee of $10 per night is charged roughly between Memorial Day and Labor Day to use a campsite.  Fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing are popular activities in the area and visitors may also be able to enjoy a scheduled ranger talk at the campground amphitheater during summer months.