Camping near Kenny Lake, Alaska centers around the Wrangell-St. Elias region where elevations range from 1,000 to over 18,000 feet, creating diverse camping conditions across seasons. Summer temperatures typically reach 65-75°F during the day but can drop to near freezing at night, even in July. Road access varies dramatically with the Edgerton Highway providing the main paved route while secondary roads like the McCarthy Road require vehicles with good clearance.
What to do
Waterfall hiking: Liberty Falls State Recreation Site offers exceptional access to cascading falls and swimming opportunities. "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," notes a camper at Liberty Falls State Recreation Site.
Fishing for sockeye salmon: During summer months, the rivers near Kenny Lake offer productive salmon fishing. "Fishing was good. Took us about an hour to land 4 sockeyes. Owners came down, gave us tips and offered to loan some gear we hadn't realized we needed," reports a visitor at King For A Day Campground & Charters.
Wildlife viewing: The beaver ponds and wetlands provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. "The lake right there and the beavers are very active," mentions a camper about Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site. Eagle watching is also popular, with one camper noting "Bald eagles were playing, and flying around all day" at their riverside campsite.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer secluded spots with natural barriers. "The sites are all different and pretty secluded, hardly saw anyone while there (September)," writes a camper at Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site.
River access: Camping directly next to flowing water ranks high with visitors. "This is a place to stay if all you want is fishing. This campground is right on the river," notes a visitor at King For A Day Campground. Similarly, another camper mentions "The campsites are decently sized... we had many great encounters with people on this adventure" at Klutina Salmon Charters & Campground.
Community atmosphere: Some campgrounds foster a social environment. "Kind of like a folk festival. Very friendly staff," describes a camper at Klutina Salmon Charters & Campground. This social aspect extends to fishing advice, with another visitor adding "Very respectful of each other, helping newer fishers with techniques and how to tips."
What you should know
Campsite availability: Most sites operate on first-come, first-served basis with limited capacity. "Cannot reserve. Get there early in the week and stay the weekend. This campground only has 10 spots but is worth it," advises a camper at Liberty Falls.
Road condition challenges: The McCarthy Road presents significant challenges for vehicles. One visitor to McCarthy Road Camp explains: "It's unfortunate that you have to drive down the terrible, McCarty 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."
Services vary significantly: Facilities range from primitive to more developed. "For $20 a day you can go to a state campground for $5 more and have a better experience," suggests one camper comparing options. Another adds "$35 for NO amenities is a lot... You get a spot with no electric or water, no bathrooms, no trash" when describing McCarthy Road Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Several sites offer safe swimming areas for children. At Liberty Falls State Recreation Site, "This is one of the most beautiful camping areas I have ever seen. We were only looking for a place to pull off and use the restroom but we were so caught up by the cleanliness and beauty of the area that we decided to eat lunch at one of the picnic tables near the falls."
Tent platforms: Some campgrounds provide raised platforms. "Pros: tent platforms to practice those LNT skills!" notes a camper at Liberty Falls State Recreation Site.
Shade coverage: Look for sites with natural shade protection. "Lots of spots with great shade. We found a spot in the back right on the creek. Left to go to Valdez and came back and found the same spot still open," shares a camper about Squirrel Creek State Recreation Site.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Electric hookups exist at select locations. "If you are looking for a place for a hot shower this is the stop to make. Very nice people running the mercantile," advises an RVer about Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Many campgrounds have uneven terrain. "The RV sites seemed a little overgrown and uneven, but otherwise not bad," notes a visitor to Tonsina River Lodge.
Seasonal operation: Most RV facilities operate limited seasons. Kenny Lake Mercantile & RV Park runs "May 1 to September 30" according to their listing information, with similar seasons at other nearby facilities.
