McCarthy RV camping requires self-sufficient preparation due to the remote location within Wrangell-St. Elias National Park. Situated at 1,400 feet elevation, McCarthy serves as a gateway to wilderness experiences with seasonal operations from late May through September. The area receives approximately 14 inches of rainfall annually, creating varied conditions on the access roads.
What to do
Glacier exploration: Root Glacier provides accessible hiking with stunning views. "The Root Glacier on the other side, and a rushing river on the third side. The MOST gorgeous scenery at a campsite I've ever been to," notes a visitor at Base Camp Root Glacier.
Mining history tours: Kennicott ghost town offers historic structures and guided tours. "Check out a cool old mining town or just get out of your busy life and relax. Beautiful view, clean air, and quiet," shares a camper at Glacier View Campground.
River activities: Waterfall access provides natural recreation spots. "Our campsite had a short walk to a waterfall the family and I played in. It was an amazing experience," mentions a visitor about their experience at Glacier View Campground.
What campers like
Riverside camping: The sound of flowing water creates a natural backdrop for overnight stays. "Listen to the Raging River as you fall asleep," recommends a camper from Base Camp Root Glacier.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies offer astronomical viewing. "The stars alone are incredible here," notes a reviewer about their shoulder season visit to Base Camp Root Glacier.
Privacy between sites: Natural barriers create secluded camping spots. "Some greenery between sites provide privacy. A nice place to camp away from the hubbub at the end of the road," explains a visitor at Kennicott Riverside Campground.
What you should know
Cash payment systems: Many campgrounds operate on honor systems. "No one was there but we found a picnic table with instructions to put our $20/night cash in an envelope," explains a Base Camp Root Glacier camper.
Limited designated sites: Most camping areas have flexible arrangements. "Very casual with no defined spots. Plenty of room, but arrive early on busy weekends to get the best space," advises a visitor about camping arrangements.
Changing facility conditions: Seasonal variations affect available services. "Outhouses did not seem to be set up so we drove a mile out of town to the NPS public pit toilets since they were clean and open," reports a spring visitor to Base Camp Root Glacier.
Tips for camping with families
Access to McCarthy: The pedestrian bridge connects camping areas to town services. "Perfect Campground for jumping off into Kennicott and McCarthy," notes a reviewer about the convenience of Base Camp Root Glacier's location.
Wildlife awareness: Animal encounters require proper preparation. "Bear containers are required here if you don't have a vehicle, and we were able to check one out for free from the NP visitor center," shares a camper.
Activity planning: Scheduled activities maximize limited time. "We bought sack lunches from the lodge in Kennicott and only had to cook breakfast," explains a family that balanced hiking and ice climbing during their stay.
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: The McCarthy Road requires careful navigation. "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 an RVer about the drive to rv parks near McCarthy, Alaska.
Boondocking preparedness: RVers need self-contained systems. "Any RV's should be prepared to boondock," advises a camper about the limited facilities at McCarthy rv parks and camping areas.
Seasonal timing considerations: Shoulder seasons offer advantages and challenges for motorhome camping near McCarthy. "We were here in shoulder season and had our pick of spots," reports a visitor who found less competition for camping areas but encountered limited services.
