Base Camp Root Glacier provides camping options along the Kennicott River in Alaska's remote Wrangell-St. Elias wilderness. The property sits at approximately 1,500 feet elevation with gravel terrain common throughout the area. The campground serves as the main accommodation point after the long drive from Chitina, before crossing the footbridge to McCarthy.
What to do
Glacier exploration: From Base Camp Root Glacier, visitors can access guided ice climbing excursions on the nearby glacier. "Stopped here before our hike up to root glacier. The drive there was so beautiful but definitely challenging," reports Riley N. from Base Camp Root Glacier.
Visit McCarthy: The historic mining town provides dining and supply options within walking distance of camp. "Walking into McCarthy is fun too and has a couple of dining options. The city's public outhouses are nice, the home made pits on the campground are okay," notes Melissa W.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location allows for exceptional night sky viewing when conditions permit. "We even got a glimpse of the Northern Lights but the stars alone are incredible here," shares Melissa about her stay at Base Camp.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: The location provides strategic access to both McCarthy town and the glacier areas. "Great spot for families, only 1/2 from McCarthy and 5 miles from Kennicott. Over the footbridge you can take public shuttles for a fee to Kennicott," explains SJ D. from Root Glacier Primitive Backcountry Camping.
Scenic waterfront: The riverside setting adds natural ambiance to the camping experience. "Listen to the Raging River as you fall asleep," writes Shadara W., who appreciated the "Gorgeous views in every direction" despite the gravelly terrain.
Seasonal quiet: During shoulder seasons, campers enjoy significantly more solitude. "We were here in shoulder season and had our pick of spots. We set up right along the water. It was extremely peaceful and relaxing," shares Melissa W.
What you should know
Road conditions: The access road presents significant challenges that require preparation. "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," cautions Melissa.
Campsite variability: The campground layout is informal with mixed quality sites. "This is less of a campsite and more of a just roughing-in it (boondocking) on the side of the river on some gravel," explains Shadara W. from Base Camp Root Glacier.
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent the area, particularly during certain seasons. "Plenty of bear tracks sited hiking in the area and locals said the grizzly's were coming out at night," warns Melissa W., highlighting the importance of proper food storage for pet friendly camping near McCarthy.
Tips for camping with families
Accessibility planning: Consider transportation logistics with children when visiting. "You can either drive the 30-mile gravel road for 3 hours or take a 4-seater plane in. The flight was our vacation splurge and it was breathtaking," shares Abby M.
Meal planning: Limited food options require advance planning. "We bought sack lunches from the lodge in Kennicott and only had to cook breakfast," notes Abby from Base Camp Root Glacier.
Weather preparation: Temperature variations can be significant, requiring appropriate gear for children. "It can also get very windy," warns Hannah C., which can make camping with pets near McCarthy more challenging for families.
Tips from RVers
Alternative sites: Consider dispersed options if the main camping area seems too basic. "If you have time, look for a dispersed site 10miles or so before McCarty," suggests Christian D. from Base Camp Root Glacier.
Limited amenities: RVers should prepare for true boondocking conditions. "Being shoulder season, we were treated to less than 10 others in the campground (any RV's should be prepared to bondock)," advises Melissa W.
Self-sufficiency: Bring all supplies needed for your stay. "No one ever even acknowledged that we were there. You pay buy an honor system of filling out a white slip of paper and putting it on your dash," explains Hannah C., underscoring the independent nature of camping in this remote area.
