Camp McCarthy, lodging in McCarthy, Alaska FAQs
How long should we stay?
With so much to do and see, at least two-nights at Camp McCarthy (our minimum) is recommended, but three-nights is perfect. Three nights allows two full days to explore and take in the incredible history and scenery, relax and hangout at Camp, and if desired, meet local residents. After the long trek here – it’s great to take the time to discover the magic of Camp McCarthy and Wrangell St Elias.
Where and when do I check-in?
Camp is located on Kennicott River Road, just one mile off the McCarthy Road at Mile 59. Being a small business with a tiny crew, Camp McCarthy has a set check-in window of 3-6pm. After arriving, to help ensure an amazing stay, guests receive a brief tour and are shown helpful How Tos (working power stations, water use, food storage, etc.).
Check-in window: 3pm - 6pm.
There is a late check-in fee of $50 for guests arriving between 6 -7pm.
$75 for arrivals between 7-8pm.
There are no check-ins after 8pm.
Early Check-ins: If you’re staying the night before nearby (Glennallen, Copper Center, Kenny Lake), and will be arriving before 3pm and would like an early check-in, please inquire to see if an early arrival is possible.
Check out: 11am
Can we cook meals at Camp McCarthy?
Meals that consist of ready-to-eat foods (i.e., baked goods, sandwiches, precooked and instant meals, cold cereal, charcuterie plates, dehydrated cuisine, hot dogs and s’mores over a campfire, cheese and crackers, etc.) are welcome, but Camp McCarthy is not set up to cook full, hot meals (no bacon and eggs, etc.). For amazing fare after your adventures, have dinner in McCarthy at the local favorite Roadside Potatohead (aka, The Potato), or, if you prefer, make a reservation for a fine dining experience at the Salmon & Bear restaurant. McCarthy has become a foodie destination – great eats you won’t want to miss!
Note: For bear safety, it’s very important to keep food (and anything with a scent) in the Pavilion’s designated storage areas - never in the tents! This will help keep bears away from camp.
Pack it In, Pack it Out
Pack it In, Pack it Out, don’t leave anything behind. That means guests are responsible for packing out what they packed in, including their own trash. There is no landfill in the McCarthy/Kennicott area making trash a big obstacle for local businesses and residents alike. All trash in the valley needs to be hauled out, burned, or buried. The nearest landfill is a 7-hour round-trip! If you prefer not to take out your own, there is a trash disposal fee of $25 + (i.e. $25 per one 13-gallon sized kitchen trash bag).
Where should we store our food and personal items?
Keep Camp McCarthy safe from bears and other wildlife. All food, beverages, and any toiletries with a scent (toothpaste, shampoo, etc), must be kept in the Pavilion’s designated storage areas*. For hot meals, there are great restaurants nearby and in McCarthy and Kennicott offering fantastic meal options.
*One standard-sized cooler per tent is allowed in the Pavilion’s designated storage area.
What about water?
Drinking water as well as water for washing hands, brushing teeth, showers, etc. is supplied in the Pavilion. All of Camp’s water has to be hauled approximately 4 miles so conserving as best you can is greatly appreciated. Feel free to bring some of your own to compliment what we have to offer.
Is there WiFi?
Camp McCarthy offers guests a great opportunity to unplug and is without WiFi. However; McCarthy and Kennicott have WiFi hotspots provided by Copper Valley Telephone (CVT). Also, if you have CVT or Verizon cell service, your data plan should work well in the area. CVT and Verizon are the only cell providers that work in McCarthy and Kennicott at this time.
Are the tents heated?
Being an outdoor glamping destination, the tents are not heated but no worries! They come with plenty of warm, cozy bedding including ultra-warm down comforters and hot water bottles you can fill to warm your bed on chilly nights.
Portable heat option: If you prefer to spot-heat your tent (just prior to bed and when you get up in the morning), you can rent a Big Buddy heater from your host as an add-on item for $25. The heater comes with two one-pound propane cylinders that last up to 3-hours each.
How long does it take to drive to McCarthy?
It is a minimum of a 7-8-hour drive from Anchorage, 8-9 from Fairbanks, 5 from Valdez, and 3.5 from Glennallen. Plan on more if you like to take your time. The McCarthy Road alone is 2- hours from Chitina. Although just 60-miles, the road was built over the old railroad bed. Plan to go slow, take your time, and enjoy! Be sure to stop for photos and to read the historical information signs at the waysides.
Important! Make sure your rental car company allows travel on gravel roads in Alaska, including the McCarthy Road. Companies that do include Go North, Midnight Sun, some on Turo (the Airbnb of vehicle rentals).
Tip: If you like to take your time and/or are driving from Denali or another location beyond Anchorage, breaking up the long days’ drive by staying a night somewhere along the way is highly recommended. That way, you can take your time driving the McCarthy Road and after settling into camp, head to McCarthy for the afternoon/evening. Lodging recommendations include: Glennallen’s Rustic Resort and B&B , Copper River Wilderness Princess Lodge, or Pippen Lake B&B. If you stay nearby, feel free to inquire if an early check-in is possible (if so, there is no additional fee).
Is there a gas station in McCarthy?
Usually, there is regular unleaded gas available near the end of the McCarthy Road, however; to be safe, it's best to top off your tank in Glennallen and/or Chitina.
Is there a store in the area?
There is a small general store in McCarthy offering basic items you may need.
What activities are offered close by?
There is a ton to do in the McCarthy/Kennicott area. Adventures abound! Tour historic McCarthy and Kennicott, visit our fantastic museum, eat amazing local fare, hike, raft, flight-see, ice climb, explore, attend naturalist talks, and the list goes on. Be sure to inquire with one of our incredible local guide services and have them take you on a world-class experience — one that's just right for you. Don’t forget to walk Camp McCarthy’s nature trail or play a game of Cornhole!
What is your Cancellation Policy?
With our intimate size, short season, and remote location, cancellations significantly affect us. Because of this, we adhere to the following cancellation policy.
90+ days: $50 cancellation fee
Between 90 and 60 days: 50% refund
60 days or less: 100% penalty applies
We recommend purchasing travel insurance.
Enjoy your stay!
Camp McCarthy is a very special place. Please respect the camp and all guests by cleaning up after yourself, staying bear-safe by leaving all food/scented items in your vehicle or in the Pavilion’s designated storage area, honoring quiet time, and being kind to one another. Camp McCarthy has a Pack it In, Pack it Out policy, meaning don’t leave anything behind. Thank you!
Quiet time: 10pm - 8am