Wrangell-St. Elias National Park surrounds Chitina, Alaska, creating a basecamp for exploring America's largest national park at over 13 million acres. Summer temperatures range from 50-80°F with occasional rain, while winters drop well below freezing with significant snowfall. Road conditions vary dramatically with washouts common during spring melt and after heavy rains.
What to do
Salmon fishing excursions: At Copper River Campground, visitors can watch boats float the Copper River during salmon season. "Later in the summer here the better the experience," notes camper Cody L., who found the riverside location ideal for witnessing salmon runs.
Glacier viewing and hiking: Base Camp Root Glacier provides access to McCarthy and the Root Glacier trails. "Chugach Mountains on one side, the Root Glacier on the other, and a rushing river on the third side. The MOST gorgeous scenery at a campsite I've ever been to," writes Abby M. The campground offers a wheeled cart system to help transport gear across the pedestrian bridge.
Berry picking: Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site offers "wonderful berry picking" according to Aaron U. The area features clear water creeks and accessible trails, making it an excellent day activity during summer months when berries ripen.
What campers like
Waterfall proximity: At Liberty Falls State Recreation Site, the waterfall creates a natural soundtrack for campers. "Perfect place to camp near running water," notes SJ D., who appreciated the tent platforms that promote Leave No Trace practices. The campground features a hand pump for water access across a wooden bridge.
Remote wilderness experience: Many campers value the isolation at McCarthy Road Camp, though they note the challenging access. "We biked five miles to Kennicott mine, we got picked up at footbridge for our raft adventure and it wasn't far to eat at 'the potato' for lunch," explains one visitor who managed to enjoy the remoteness despite difficult road conditions.
Swimming holes: Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site features "great swimming holes and wonderful berry picking" according to reviews. The clear water creek provides refreshing swimming opportunities during summer months, with one camper noting, "We found a spot in the back right on the creek."
What you should know
Road conditions: The McCarthy Road requires careful planning. "It's unfortunate that you have to drive down the terrible, McCarthy road. It was bad. They just grated it and if we didn't have a raff adventure booked my husband would have turned around since we are hauling a camper," warns Kristi D.
Limited availability: Popular sites fill quickly, especially on weekends. "Cannot reserve. Get there early in the week and stay the weekend. This campground only has 10 spots but is worth it," advises Tanya B. about Liberty Falls.
Wildlife encounters: Glacier View Campground reminds visitors to "Watch out for wildlife" as bears are active throughout the region. Campers report bear tracks and grizzly sightings, particularly in evening hours near McCarthy.
Bathroom facilities: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Copper River Campground, one camper notes: "There are pay stations everywhere but I did not see any bathrooms. So with that being said and little trees around I just held it."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfall play areas: Liberty Falls offers safe water access points for families. "There is a great place to splash in the water at the base of this waterfall," writes Tanya B., making it ideal for children to cool off during summer months.
Private campsites: Several campgrounds offer secluded options for families needing space. "This campground only has 10 sites but is worth it. Spots are small but the waterfall is amazing," notes one Liberty Falls camper who recommends the more private options.
Short hiking trails: Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park provides convenient access to family amenities while staying near trails. "East access and great owners!" writes Cody L., noting the store offers ice cream and supplies that children might need during camping trips.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families enjoy watching active beavers at Squirrel Creek. "It has a beautiful view with the lake right there and the beavers are very active," reports Riley N., creating educational nature experiences for children.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many of the best places to camp near Chitina have restricted RV access. At Liberty Falls, "Mostly tent sites only one or two sites big enough for an RV," reports Shadara W., suggesting early arrival for limited large vehicle spots.
Utility options: For those needing hookups, Wrangell View Campground offers 11 sites with electric, water, sewer and dump station access, though campers note "some road noise" affects the otherwise convenient location.
Road hazards: RVers should exercise caution on unpaved access roads. "When it's wet and the potholes are full of water, you have to treat each of them like they're a foot deep since you have no depth perception," warns Melissa W. about the McCarthy Road, noting their rental Jeep Compass took approximately three hours to navigate the Nabesna Road.
