Glamping close to Chitina, Alaska provides access to the immense Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, America's largest national park at over 13 million acres with elevations ranging from sea level to 18,008 feet at Mount St. Elias. The area experiences short, mild summers with average July temperatures between 50-70°F, making May through September the primary season for most accommodations. Most sites require traveling the McCarthy Road, a 60-mile gravel route that crosses the Copper River.
What to do
**Glacier exploration: Access Root Glacier for day hikes with proper equipment. Primitive backcountry camping is allowed directly on Root Glacier for experienced adventurers with bear-resistant containers and water filtration systems.
Fishing opportunities: Liberty Falls offers excellent fishing access with convenient amenities. "This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I've seen in Alaska. Although this campground is just off the road system, the roads in Alaska can always use some work," notes Sierra S. about Liberty Falls State Recreation Site.
McCarthy exploration: Campers staying at Base Camp can easily walk into the historic mining town. "The host was really friendly and helpful, easy going guy who owns the property. It's a flat rate and you can camp wherever you want! There is lots of space to have your own spot," writes Kari P. about Base Camp Root Glacier.
What campers like
River proximity: Many campsites offer riverside locations with natural white noise. At Klutina Salmon Charters & Campground, Jessica J. notes, "The campsites are decently sized. The people working, visiting and in the area were all great. Very respectful of each other, helping newer fishers with techniques and how to tips."
Unique water features: Liberty Falls offers both scenic beauty and practical resources. Aaron U. highlights: "Best drinking water anywhere. Has hand pump well. Clean out houses. Great camping by the creek. Thundering waterfalls."
Secluded camping options: Kennicott area provides more remote camping experiences. "This campground is only suitable for those with their own transportation as it is a considerable drive from the footbridge, but the trek is worth it. Nice level tent sites near the river with a picnic table and stone fire ring," describes Cody M. about Kennicott Riverside Campground.
What you should know
Limited availability: Many campgrounds have very few sites that fill quickly. "Cannot reserve. Get there early in the week and stay the weekend. This campground only has 10 spots but is worth it. Spots are small but the waterfall is amazing," advises Tanya B. about Liberty Falls.
Seasonal considerations: Most facilities operate only during summer months. Klutina Salmon Charters operates from late May through August with limited services in shoulder seasons.
Weather preparedness: Wind conditions can affect comfort at some locations. "If you are tent camping you have to set up on the bare rocks. It can also get very windy," warns Hannah C. about Base Camp Root Glacier.
Road conditions: The McCarthy Road requires careful driving and appropriate vehicles. Melissa W. notes about Base Camp Root Glacier: "The road to get here isn't hard, just extremely long. 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. It took us about 3 hours on Nabsena road in our rental jeep compass."
Tips for camping with families
Water play opportunities: Liberty Falls offers safe water access for children. "There is a great place to splash in the water at the base of this waterfall. This is one of those once in a life time spots so if you drive by and there is an open space take it," recommends Tanya B.
Site selection for convenience: When glamping near Chitina with children, choose sites with more amenities. "We found a site on the other side (the side by the picnic table had cars/RVs that had driven in, our side had 3 tents the first night, none the next 2 nights). There aren't really any designated campsites, but there were a scattering of picnic tables, fire rings and plenty of land," shares Abby M. about Base Camp.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage. SJ D. warns about Base Camp: "Plenty of bear tracks sited hiking in the area and locals said the grizzly's were coming out at night."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most glamping facilities near Chitina accommodate smaller RVs only. "Mostly tent sites only one or two sites big enough for an RV. The campground along is worth stopping in to see the waterfall if nothing else," notes Shadara W. about Liberty Falls State Recreation Site.
Hookup availability: Klutina Salmon Charters offers electrical hookups with 30-amp service, making it one of the few sites with power in the area.
Bridge crossings: Some areas require separate parking and walking across footbridges. Melissa F. shares about Liberty Falls: "10 sites and one bathroom. Three of the sites are private. At least three of them can be an RV site. Great for community camping."
