Camp McCarthy offers an amazing place to stay in McCarthy, Alaska
What to Expect
Camp McCarthy is a new luxury camping destination on 10 beautiful acres on the bank of the Kennicott River. Camp is just a two-mile drive from the footbridge to McCarthy and Kennicott — we are excited to share it with you!
The camp features:
12’ x 14’ private safari-style canvas tents with screened-in door and windows.
Premium mattresses for a luxurious sleeping experience.
Luxury linens and plush pillows.
Amazing mountain and Kennicott River Valley views.
Hot showers with shampoo, soap, and towels provided.
Being an outdoor glamping destination, the tents are not heated but no worries! Luxury bedding — including ultra-warm down comforters and hot water bottles ensure a cozy stay.
Portable heat is available. 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 as an add-on from your host for $25. The heater comes with two one-pound propane cylinders that last up to 3-hours each.
Solar lights and charging station for small devices (for smart phones, headlamps, etc. No CPAPs unless it is a travel version with a battery pack.)
In-tent small table and chairs for playing cards, board games, writing, etc.
Covered deck with two patio chairs.
The Pavilion: This impressive log framed gathering space features hot showers, a food storage area, propane burner for Camp’s hot water kettle, café tables, chairs, games including Cornhole, a campfire circle (firewood provided), toiletry cupboards to stow personal items, handwashing sinks, and more!
Very clean, well-maintained outhouses are a short walk from the Pavilion and the tents.
Guests must be comfortable using stairs and walking on natural ground with uneven terrain.
Yes! You can eat already-made meals at Camp. Ready-to-eat foods such as baked goods, sandwiches, precooked and instant meals, cold cereal, charcuterie plates, cheese and crackers, canned soups, s’mores and hot dogs for around the campfire, etc., are welcome but Camp McCarthy is not set up to cook full, hot meals (i.e., no bacon and eggs!). Why? Bears live in the area / guest safety. For amazing fare after your adventures, have dinner in McCarthy at the local favorite Roadside Potatohead (aka, The Potato), at the Glacier View Grill (just one-mile from Camp), or make a reservation for a fine dining experience at the Salmon & Bear restaurant. McCarthy has become somewhat of a foodie destination – great eats you won’t want to miss!
Note: To keep Camp bear safe, 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.
A water kettle and propane burner is available to make coffee, tea, instant meals, and to fill hot water bottles on chilly evenings.
Campfires are allowed in the Pavilion’s designated fire pit (except when there is high fire danger). Firewood is provided.
Private on-site nature trail with incredible views of Kennicott and the Stairway Icefalls.
Free vehicle parking by each tent.
Other Tid-Bits
To help ensure a peaceful, relaxing stay for all guests, there are no children under 10 years at Camp. Exception: Age 6 + is OK with an Exclusive Stay.
To make a reservation and confirm your stay, full payment is due on receipt.
Reservations are not guaranteed without payment.
Being a small business with a tiny crew, Camp McCarthy has a set check-in window:
Check-in: 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. Note: If you will be arriving before 3pm and would like an early check-in, please ask before your stay if this is possible and I’ll see what I can do! When available, there is no additional fee for early check-ins.
Check-out: 11am
Camp McCarthy has a Pack it In, Pack it Out policy, meaning, don’t leave anything behind (food items, gear, trash, etc.). If you prefer not to take out your own trash, there is a trash disposal fee of $25 + (i.e., $25 per one 13-gallon sized kitchen trash bag, my cost to have it hauled out).
Quiet time: 10pm - 8am
Packing Suggestions
Have an amazing experience. Be prepared!
Wondering what to wear? Casual, comfortable, warm, and quick dry layers are best. The weather in Alaska can vary greatly, from chilly mornings to hot and windy afternoons. Even on sunny days there may be periods of rain. Summer temperatures in McCarthy/Kennicott generally range from the 40’s to the high 70’s. Night temperatures in mid-August and September can get down into the 30’s.
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Warm layers. Fleece vest and/or fleece jacket, wool sweater, and - especially in August and September - a warm coat.
Shirts, pants, shorts. Comfort is key! Quick dry, lightweight and breathable clothing. Both long and short sleeve tops. At least one pair of shorts for hot sunny days.
Warm thermals. Polypropylene, silk, or wool for chilly and/or rainy days.
Rain gear. Lightweight and breathable, good quality rain jacket and pants for rain and wind.
Warm hat and gloves. For chilly days and nights. A brimmed hat for sunny days.
Casual lightweight hiking or walking shoes.
Slip-on shoes. For quick trips from the tent to outhouse, Pavilion, etc. (we’ll also have some available).
Slippers. For relaxing in your tent.
Warm socks. Made of wool (or similar). Cotton socks are not recommended.
Day pack. For your water bottle, snacks, extra layers and what you need for your adventures.
Bug Spray / Thermacells. Yes, the rumors are true. Mosquitoes and other flying insects can be a nuisance in Alaska! Note: Due to high fire danger, mosquito coils and other open flame insect repellents (i.e. citronella candles etc.) are not allowed at Camp McCarthy.
Headlamp/Flashlight. A must for August - September stays.
Camera. With extra batteries and/or charger.
Your favorite game. We have some games available, but feel free to bring your favorites for down-time at camp.
Snacks and other ready-to-eat foods are welcome, i.e., baked goods, sandwich fixings, cold cereal, boil-in-a-bag cuisine, charcuterie plates, cheese and crackers, etc. To keep camp safe, all food, drinks, and/or toiletries with a scent (toothpaste, shampoo, etc.) must be stored in the Pavilion’s designated storage areas. We want bears to stay away from camp!
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Please don’t bring:
Guns
Fireworks
Dirt bikes or ATVs (not allowed to be driven anywhere on our property)
Camp stoves, candles, burning insect repellents, or anything with an open flame
Amplified speakers