The Ultimate Guide to Camping in McCarthy, Alaska (2026)

Are you looking for information on camping in and around McCarthy, Alaska?

I can help you! I own a cabin in the small town of McCarthy and have been traveling there with my husband, Matt, for almost 20 years. We visit as often as we can and miss it dearly every time we leave!

We’ve almost spent more nights camping in McCarthy than staying in our cozy cabin. This is because we spent six years working to both clear our property and build our cabin so it meant lots of nights sleeping in a tent.

My experiences range from camping at places on the way to McCarthy, staying on our tent platform, sleeping on the ground in a tent, and enjoying epic backcountry camping in Wrangell St Elias National Park – both fly-in and hike-in locations near McCarthy.

This guide covers the basics of camping in McCarthy, including where to stay, what to pack, and some tips for the trip. So, let’s get started!

Where to Go: Camping McCarthy, Alaska

Camping in McCarthy in the summer months is an excellent choice especially with limited accommodations in town.

Prepare yourself, however, for the infamous Alaskan mosquitoes, particularly if you’re planning a visit in June or early July.

Instead, you’ll stay in safari-style canvas tents with comfy beds, plus there are hot showers, drinking water and so much more! I don’t even have hot showers at my cabin…that is unless I boil water to bathe with.

So if you aren’t sure you want to rough it but you equally prefer to be immersed in the outdoors, Camp McCarthy is definitely for you! It is one of the best places to stay in town.

📍LOCATION: Mile 1 Kennicott River Rd, McCarthy, Alaska

Campers here enjoy the stunning scenery at Kennicott Glacier Lake and the Kennicott River. There are uncrowded open camping sites available for tents, cars, trailers, and RVs without hook-ups.

Please remember there are no hookups or dump stations. Vehicles up to 25 feet are allowed with a maximum of 2 tents. Oversize camping is available for vehicles over 25 feet with a maximum of 2 tents.

Working or staying in McCarthy for the summer? Monthly rates are available too! Contact the Camp Host for inquiries regarding extra large groups upon arrival. Only non-potable water is available.

📍LOCATION: Mile 59.2 McCarthy Rd, McCarthy, AK

3. Glacier View Campground McCarthy

Also, right before the end of the McCarthy Road is this convenient McCarthy Alaska campground with twenty-two campsites complete with incredible views!  

It is located at the base of the Kennecott Glacier, less than a mile from the glacier’s terminal moraine itself. Glacier View also has RV sites for Class B and Class C vehicles.

Please note that these are dry sites! Water hookup is not available.

There also is a grill on site at Glacier View Grill! Everyone raves about their Glacier Burger but there are also a handful of other burger options plus chicken sandwiches and hot dogs.

📍LOCATION: Mile 59, McCarthy Rd, McCarthy, AK

• Use a shuttle service from downtown McCarthy to Kennecott.
• Follow the Kennecott Road through the national historic landmark on foot.
• From the Kennecott Mill, the Jumbo Creek Campground is located 1.4 miles north.
• Follow signs, everything is well-marked.

Please note that the last portion of this journey is a hike, as there are no roads leading directly to Jumbo Creek Campground. There are no amenities and you need to use the bear boxes for storing food.

For up-to-date information and more specific directions, please refer to the National Park Service. They have an office right in Kennecott and they are accommodating!

📍LOCATION: 1.4 Miles from Kennecott, accessed by foot

5. Backcountry Camping

You will find incredibly epic backcountry camping just beyond McCarthy, accessed from Kennecott if you trek further across the Root glacier. This is your budget-friendly backpacking option and it will blow you away.

Hiking across the Root Glacier is one of my favorite things to do in McCarthy! It is an amazing place — there are even ice caves and unbelievable blue pools to explore.

But, please use good judgment on the hike as there are hazardous crevasses and thin ice bridges, in addition to loose rocks throughout the hike.

I recommend chatting with the National Park Service office in Kennecott for their recommended route crossing the Root Glacier trail and a camping location. It is also best to check with locals as conditions change.

Definitely alert the NPS of your backcountry camping plans. They all appreciate this communication and it helps keep everyone much safer.

For a trip like this, you will need crampons and all the appropriate gear for fluctuating weather and camping out safely — pack easy dehydrated meals and items like ramen or backpacking oatmeal for convenience.

6. Fly-In Camping

The fly-in backcountry camping opportunities in Wrangell St-Elias National Park from McCarthy are phenomenal! If you are looking for a bucket list experience this is it! This is the largest national park in the United States so there are a lot of options for backcountry drop-off locations.

One of the most incredible experiences in my time as a backpacker and at Wrangell St-Elias National Park was when I went on a 5-day fly-in base camp trip to Iceberg Lake with my husband and brother.

We flew in a small plane up the Tana River Valley and were dropped off near Iceberg Lake with all our gear and food for the week on a wilderness “airstrip” and left in a place unlike any I had ever been.

The feeling of us being utterly alone in that specific location, so completely remote, surrounded by glaciers, was quite memorable and honestly a bit intense but in a really good way.

Trips to Iceberg Lake are often guided, but as local Alaskans and experienced backpackers, we felt confident going solo. Be sure to plan carefully depending on your experience and abilities!

We set up a base camp near Iceberg Lake, which is known for its stunning glacial views. From the base camp, we enjoyed day hikes, exploring the surrounding wilderness adorned with high peaks, glaciers, and lakes.

Remember trips to remote locations like this require careful planning and preparation. It’s important to be prepared for variable weather conditions and to have appropriate gear for hiking and camping.

Camping Near McCarthy Alaska

Before we continue with this section please understand that “near” McCarthy, Alaska can mean anywhere within an hour’s drive of the start of the McCarthy Road, the renowned unpaved gravel road that brings you into town.

It’s important to remember the size of Alaska — places can be quite far away but still, the nearest option until you reach a destination!

Once you arrive at the start of that road it can take you 2-4 hours to arrive in McCarthy. So the campgrounds under this heading fall under the “on the way to McCarthy” category and all are south of Glennallen.

7. Copper River Campground

On the south side of the McCarthy Road is a primitive campground. It is not associated with the National Park Service and is privately managed. There is no fee so if you are a fan of free camping this is it!

It is located just after crossing the bridge over the famous Copper River. This area has 12 camping spots and some room for large motorhomes. It is definitely an RV-friendly campground. Mostly locals camp here because of the fishing opportunities for Alaskans.

If it is fishing season you can expect crowds and noise at all hours. Be prepared! There are some picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. It is a very casual and a no-frills place but super convenient!

📍LOCATION: East end Copper River Bridge, turn right after the bridge.

8. The Hilltop Campground

AHTNA Native Corporation manages land in the area and has camping across from the Copper River Campground for 24 hours only and they also offer the Hilltop Campground to the public.

It is located on the sharp curve, 1.5 miles after the bridge on the right. It has breathtaking views of the Copper and Chitina Rivers. Drive 0.2 miles on the gravel road to the top of the hill to camp.

A land use permit is required to stay here. RVs are allowed. Please be respectful of native land!

📍LOCATION: 1.5 miles after the East end of the Copper River Bridge

9. Liberty Falls State Recreation Site

Liberty Falls State Recreation Site is my favorite place to stop and camp on my way to McCarthy! It is nestled on the Edgerton Highway, about 15 minutes away from Chitina — the start of the McCarthy Road.

The campground is private, has direct road access, and has a stunning canyon setting. One of the highlights of Liberty Falls State Recreation Site is the beautiful cascading waterfall and stream nearby. This soothing background noise, for me, makes it an easy place to relax and fall asleep.

The campground has a total of ten campsites, each equipped with 30 amp electricity hookups. The sites are all shaded and have well-maintained wooden platforms, providing a perfect tent setup. I appreciate that there are picnic tables here too.

♿️ This is an ADA Facility

📍LOCATION: Mile 23.5 Edgerton Highway, Chitina

10. Wrangell View RV Park

Wrangell View is an excellent choice for those specifically traveling in RVs. Since the campground is near the entrance to the McCarthy Road, it makes it a convenient base for exploration in the area.

The campground has full hookup sites, including 20, 30, and 50 amp options and a dump station. They also offer tent platforms/non-hook-up sites as well.

One of the main attractions of this park is its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the fishwheel viewing which is a short walk away. Despite its accessible location on the Edgerton Highway, the park maintains a peaceful and quiet environment that campers appreciate.

Additional amenities like free wireless internet and shuttle services to the national park make it a preferred choice for many, plus pets are allowed to stay here.

📍LOCATION: Mile 28.4 Edgerton Highway, Chitina Airport Access Road

11. Squirrel Creek State Recreational Site

Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site, is a peaceful spot located on the Richardson Hwy just after the turn-off for the Edgerton Hwy if coming from Glenallen and heading south toward Tonsina.

It is adjacent to the highway so the campground is not only easy to find but also provides a convenient base camp for exploring the surrounding area.

The campground has 25 large sites, accommodating both tent campers and RVs. Although there are no maximum length restrictions for RVs, it’s worth noting that the campsites are primitive, meaning there are no electric, water, or sewage hookups available.

In addition to camping, the site is great for fishing, with plenty of fish reported in the nearby lake and stream. Campers self-register at the campground and the fee in 2023 is $25 for the night. Check-out is at noon.

📍LOCATION: Mile 79.5 Richardson Highway

12. Chitina Guest Cabins

Perhaps you are looking for an experience that is more rustic than a lodge but could be considered camping depending on your lifestyle! In that case, the Chitina Guest Cabins are a great place for you!

The owners built the cabins themselves and a lot of love and effort has been put into the experience that guests gain from staying there. Each cabin is an individual work of art, highlighting the rustic charm and beauty of Alaska.

They do not have running water but I trust you may not even notice due to the setup that is provided for guests. There are outhouses available as well.

The bonus of staying here in a cozy cabin is the immersive experience. You’ll be delighted to find an evening salmon snack tray in your cabin and the option for a fish wheel tour if it piques your interest.

Guests also wake up to breakfast and fresh ground coffee in the main cabin each morning.

📍LOCATION: Mile 32.2 Edgerton Hwy, Chitina

13. Groves Klutina River Salmon Grove Campground

Salmon Grove sites can be reserved for fishing charter clients only. The campground is situated right on the Klutina riverbank, providing prime access for catching salmon.

It offers waterfront RV parking and tent camping facilities, letting campers enjoy world-class Copper River Salmon fishing right from their site.

The campground also features amenities such as picnic tables and fire pits, large coin-operated showers, laundry facilities, and a handicap-friendly outhouse.

📍LOCATION: 100 Old Richardson Hwy, Copper Center

14. King for a Day Campground

King for a Day Campground, located in Copper Center, Alaska, offers a unique camping experience right on the banks of the Klutina River.

This campground provides a range of options for campers, including tent sites and dry, electric, water/electric, and full hook-up options for RVs. Showers, washers and dryers, and ice are available.

King for a Day is an ideal place for fishing enthusiasts as the Klutina River is home to some of the world’s best red and king salmon fishing.

The campground also features two cozy cabins for those looking for a more comfortable stay. In addition to camping, they also offer charter services for fishing, which could be a great addition to your camping adventure

📍LOCATION: 100.5 Old Richardson Hwy, Copper Center

15. Kenny Lake Alaska RV Park

Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park is in a very convenient location for travelers coming to going from McCarthy.

This simple campground provides both full hook-up sites and a dry camping area surrounded by trees, offering privacy and space.

The dry camping sites are particularly praised by tent campers for their scenic and peaceful location with really nice views of the mountains.

There are great laundry facilities and the store on site truly has a bit of everything you may need!

📍LOCATION: 7.2 Mile Edgerton Highway, Kenny Lake

Zero Impact Camping in Wrangell-St. Elias Elias National Park

Zero Impact Camping or Leave No Trace camping, is a set of principles designed to promote outdoor conservation.

It’s about making as little impact as possible on the environment and preserving nature for future generations to enjoy!

In Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, Zero Impact Camping is strongly encouraged to protect the park’s fragile ecosystems. Despite its rugged appearance, the backcountry of Wrangell-St. Elias is extremely vulnerable to human impact.

Whether you are camping at a campground, backcountry camping, or flying into the wilderness, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Understand the regulations and special concerns of the area you’ll visit.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to established trails and campsites or recommended camping areas in the backcountry.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and leftover food.
• Leave What You Find: Do not disturb natural features or wildlife or take anything from the park.
• Minimize Campfire Impact: Use a camp stove for cooking rather than making a fire.
• Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and never feed them. Use bear containers.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experience.

Tips and What to Pack For Camping, McCarthy Alaska

If you are going on a backpacking trip, your packing list will vary from a regular camping packing list.

Packing for a camping trip to Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and the McCarthy area requires careful consideration of the weather conditions, activities planned, and duration of your stay.

Here are some essential items that should be on your packing list:

✔️ CLOTHING: Prepare for a range of weather conditions, especially rain – there can be days in a row of it and you don’t want to stay wet. Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly.

Pack rain pants and rain boots! If it starts raining in McCarthy it may not let up for a while. I have sharp memories of trips in the area when I rarely took off my rain pants or boots.

Pack layers, including thermal base layers, a fleece or wool mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget warm socks, gloves, and a hat.

✔️ CAMPING GEAR: Depending on your accommodation plans and this won’t apply to you if you are an RV or van camper — you’ll need a tent, a sleeping bag rated for the temperatures you’ll encounter, and a sleeping pad for comfort and insulation from the ground.

✔️ COOKING EQUIPMENT: A camping stove, fuel, matches or a lighter, cookware, utensils, and if you are car camping – a cooler to store perishables in will be needed if you’re planning to cook your meals.

If you are cooking in an RV you have a lot more flexibility with meals but a traveling grill or a Blackstone griddle would be nice to have!

NOTE: There is not always ice in the store in McCarthy but in recent years there has been more. However, it is pricey. Remember this is grizzly territory so keep food to a minimum and use bear-proof food storage boxes.

✔️ FOOD AND WATER: If you are backpacking or backcountry camping, bring enough food for your trip plus extra in case of an emergency. If you’re backcountry camping, the bonus of being in glacier territory is that you will have access to fresh glacier water!

✔️ SAFETY AND NAVIGATION: This includes a first aid kit, multi-tool, headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries, compass, and maps or a GPS.

✔️ PERSONAL ITEMS: Don’t forget toiletries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications.

✔️ MISCELLANEOUS: Consider bringing items like binoculars for wildlife viewing, a camera to capture memories, and a book or games for entertainment in the evenings.

FAQS: Camping McCarthy Alaska

Let’s review some commonly asked questions about camping in Alaska. I’ve supplied some answers to help clarify things for you!

💡 Looking for advice on traveling the famous McCarthy Road? Read my post on How to Get to McCarthy, Alaska, and don’t forget your spare tire!

The Wrap Up on Camping in McCarthy Alaska

So there you have it: the rundown on camping in and near McCarthy, Alaska! I hope you find the perfect campground or backcountry experience for your Alaska getaway and take some of my tips with you.

This will be a trip to remember whether you are an RV camper or backcountry trekker, Wrangell St. Elias National Park and the surrounding area have so much to offer as the largest national park and the single largest wilderness area in the United States.

If you’re seeking an unparalleled camping adventure, I strongly recommend making the journey to McCarthy, Alaska. It promises to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life!

From the highest peaks to the deepest valleys with pristine glaciers, you can explore this place for an eternity. Enjoy your road trip and camping in Alaska!