Dispersed camping opportunities around Kenny Lake, Alaska provide access to the vast wilderness of Wrangell-St. Elias National Park, with elevations ranging from 1,500 to over 16,000 feet across the region. Winter temperatures regularly drop below -50°F, while summer can bring 24-hour daylight periods. Most campsites require visitors to pack in all supplies and pack out all waste, as services are extremely limited throughout this remote region.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Near McCarthy Road Camp, visitors frequently spot Dall sheep, moose, and occasionally bears during summer months. The surrounding wilderness hosts over 200 bird species during peak season.
Hiking historic trails: The area offers access to numerous backcountry routes through one of America's largest national parks. From Mount Billy Mitchel, several unmarked but established paths lead to abandoned mining structures and panoramic viewpoints.
River activities: Gulkana River Access provides entry points for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. The river contains salmon runs from June through September, with king salmon arriving earliest in the season.
What campers like
Remote solitude: The isolation of most dispersed sites around Kenny Lake means minimal crowds even during peak summer season. One camper noted about McCarthy Road Camp: "We enjoyed the remoteness of the town and the idea of this small community."
Natural surroundings: The undeveloped nature of the campsites preserves the raw Alaskan landscape. Regarding the McCarthy Road area, a visitor remarked: "You can not beat your surroundings and the view!"
Historical context: Chitina Dispersed Camping provides proximity to abandoned copper mining operations and ghost towns that offer glimpses into Alaska's resource extraction history. Several deteriorating structures remain accessible within hiking distance.
What you should know
Road conditions: McCarthy Road presents significant challenges with approximately 60 miles of unpaved surfaces. A recent camper warned: "It was bad. They just grated it and if we didn't have a raft adventure booked my husband would have turned around since we are hauling a camper."
Limited facilities: Nearly all rustic camping near Kenny Lake, Alaska lacks basic amenities. Most sites have no water sources, restrooms, or waste disposal. One McCarthy Road Camp visitor noted: "You get a spot with no electric or water, no bathrooms, no trash."
Cost considerations: While many dispersed camping areas are free, some designated sites charge fees despite minimal facilities. A camper at McCarthy Road Camp observed: "$35 for NO amenities is a lot."
Supply planning: The nearest reliable supplies are in Glennallen, approximately 45 miles from Kenny Lake. No services exist between there and McCarthy, requiring complete self-sufficiency for the duration of your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Alternative transportation: Consider biking as an activity option for families with older children. A visitor mentioned: "We biked five miles to Kennicott mine," which provides exercise and reduces vehicle wear on rough roads.
Meal planning: Pack all food supplies before leaving major towns. No reliable food services exist between Kenny Lake and McCarthy except for limited seasonal options. One camper mentioned eating at "the potato" for lunch while staying at Mount Billy Mitchel.
Safety precautions: Bring satellite communication devices as cell service is nonexistent throughout most of the area. Emergency services may be hours away from remote camping locations.
Tips from RVers
Vehicle preparation: RV campers should thoroughly inspect suspension components before attempting McCarthy Road. The rough conditions have damaged many recreational vehicles attempting the journey without proper preparation.
Size limitations: Large RVs over 25 feet face significant challenges on narrow sections of McCarthy Road and at Gulkana River Crossing. Several pull-outs and camping spots cannot accommodate larger rigs.
Resource management: Plan for complete self-contained camping with capacity to hold all waste for several days. No dump stations exist between Glennallen and McCarthy, requiring strategic tank management.
