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