Overview
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds in Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve offer a unique and remote camping experience in the heart of Alaska’s wilderness. Located near the historic town of McCarthy, these campgrounds provide stunning scenery, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the state. The campgrounds are situated in a scenic valley surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and rivers, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and endless adventure opportunities, the McCarthy Area Campgrounds are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alaska.
One of the unique features of the McCarthy Area Campgrounds is its proximity to the Kennicott Glacier and the historic Kennicott Mines. The campgrounds are also surrounded by an abundance of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. The scenery is breathtaking, with towering mountains, glaciers, and rivers providing a stunning backdrop for camping, hiking, and exploring. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing camping experience or an action-packed adventure, the McCarthy Area Campgrounds have something to offer.
Location & Directions
To get to the McCarthy Area Campgrounds, take the Edgerton Highway (AK-10) from the town of Chitina, which is located about 30 miles southeast of Copper Center. From Chitina, follow the highway for approximately 60 miles to the Slana River, then turn onto the Nabesna Road (AK-10) and continue for another 60 miles to the town of McCarthy. The campgrounds are located just outside of McCarthy, near the Kennicott River. The GPS coordinates for the campgrounds are 61.4333° N, 142.9167° W.
Driving directions from the nearest city, Copper Center, are as follows: from Copper Center, take the Edgerton Highway (AK-10) west for approximately 30 miles to the town of Chitina. From Chitina, follow the highway for another 60 miles to the Slana River, then turn onto the Nabesna Road (AK-10) and continue for another 60 miles to the town of McCarthy. The road conditions can be rough, especially during the spring and fall, so it’s essential to check the road conditions before embarking on your journey. The highway mile marker for the turnoff to McCarthy is mile 59.
Important Road Information
The road to McCarthy is paved for the first 30 miles, but then turns to gravel and can be rough in some areas. It’s essential to drive slowly and carefully, especially when encountering other vehicles or wildlife on the road. The road is also prone to washouts and closures during heavy rainfall or snowmelt, so be sure to check the road conditions before heading out.
Campground Details
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds have a total of 20 campsites, including 10 tent sites, 5 RV sites, and 5 walk-in sites. The RV sites have hookups for water and electricity, but there are no sewage hookups available. The maximum RV length is 30 feet, and the campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The current fees for camping are $10 per night for tent sites and $20 per night for RV sites, with a maximum stay of 14 days. Reservations can be made through reserve.gov, but are not required.
The check-in time is 12:00 pm, and the check-out time is 11:00 am. The campgrounds are open from May 15 to September 15, weather permitting. It’s essential to note that the campgrounds are located in a remote area, and cell phone service is limited. The campgrounds also have a quiet time from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am, so be sure to respect your fellow campers and keep noise to a minimum.
Campsite Information
Each campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear box for storing food and other scented items. The campsites are spaced far enough apart to provide privacy, but are still within walking distance to the restrooms and other amenities. The RV sites have hookups for water and electricity, but there are no sewage hookups available. The walk-in sites are located in a separate area of the campground and require a short hike to access.
Facilities & Amenities
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds have a variety of facilities and amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. The campgrounds have potable water available at the restrooms, as well as a hand pump for filling water containers. The restrooms are vault-style and are located near the campsites. Each campsite has a fire ring and picnic table, and bear boxes are provided for storing food and other scented items.
The campgrounds also have a boat launch and a dump station for RVs. Firewood is available for purchase at the campground, but it’s essential to follow the campgrounds’ firewood policy to prevent the spread of invasive species. The campgrounds also have a day-use area with picnic tables and a scenic overlook of the surrounding mountains and rivers.
Amenity Information
The campgrounds have a variety of amenities to make your camping experience comfortable and enjoyable. The potable water is available at the restrooms, and the hand pump is located near the campsites. The restrooms are vault-style and are cleaned regularly by the campground staff. The bear boxes are provided to store food and other scented items, and are essential for keeping bears and other wildlife out of the campsites.
Hiking & Activities Nearby
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds are surrounded by a variety of hiking trails and activities to enjoy. The nearby trails include the Kennicott Glacier Trail, the Root Glacier Trail, and the Stairway Icefall Trail, which offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. The campgrounds are also located near the Kennicott River, which offers excellent fishing opportunities for salmon and other species.
In addition to hiking and fishing, the campgrounds are also located near the historic town of McCarthy, which offers a variety of activities and attractions. The town has a number of shops, restaurants, and museums, as well as a variety of guided tours and activities, such as flightseeing and glacier hiking. The campgrounds are also located near the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, which offers a variety of scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Nearby Trails
- Kennicott Glacier Trail: 3.5 miles, moderate difficulty
- Root Glacier Trail: 2.5 miles, easy difficulty
- Stairway Icefall Trail: 4.5 miles, challenging difficulty
Fishing Opportunities
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds are located near a variety of excellent fishing spots, including the Kennicott River and the Root Glacier Lake. The Kennicott River offers excellent fishing opportunities for salmon, trout, and grayling, while the Root Glacier Lake offers fishing opportunities for trout and char. The campgrounds are also located near a number of other lakes and streams, which offer fishing opportunities for a variety of species.
It’s essential to note that fishing in Alaska requires a valid fishing license, and there are specific regulations and catch limits for each species. The campgrounds have a variety of fishing gear and supplies available for purchase, and the staff can provide information and guidance on the best fishing spots and techniques.
Fishing Regulations
Fishing in Alaska requires a valid fishing license, which can be purchased at the campground or online through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. The regulations and catch limits for each species vary, so it’s essential to check with the campground staff or the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for the most up-to-date information. The campgrounds also have a variety of fishing gear and supplies available for purchase, including rods, reels, and bait.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the McCarthy Area Campgrounds is from May 15 to September 15, when the weather is warm and dry. The peak season is from June 15 to August 15, when the wildflowers are in bloom and the days are long. However, this is also the busiest time of year, and the campgrounds can be crowded. If you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, consider visiting during the shoulder season, when the crowds are smaller and the prices are lower.
It’s essential to note that the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon for it to rain or snow even in the summer. Be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear, and to check the weather forecast before heading out. The campgrounds are also located in a remote area, and cell phone service is limited, so be sure to plan ahead and bring a map and compass or GPS device.
Weather Patterns
The weather in Alaska can be unpredictable, and it’s not uncommon for it to rain or snow even in the summer. The campgrounds are located in a valley, which can create a microclimate with its own unique weather patterns. Be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear, and to check the weather forecast before heading out. The campgrounds also have a variety of weather-related amenities, including a weather station and a storm shelter.
Wildlife & Bear Safety
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds are located in a remote area with an abundance of wildlife, including bears, moose, caribou, and Dall sheep. It’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings from wildlife, especially bears. The campgrounds have bear boxes and other storage containers available for storing food and other scented items, and the staff can provide information and guidance on bear safety and etiquette.
When hiking or exploring the surrounding area, be sure to make noise and stay alert for wildlife. Avoid hiking alone or at dawn or dusk, when wildlife is most active. If you encounter a bear, stay calm and follow the proper procedures for bear encounters. The campgrounds also have a variety of bear safety amenities, including bear spray and bear-resistant containers.
Bear Safety Tips
- Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears
- Stay alert and watch for signs of bears, such as tracks or scat
- Avoid hiking alone or at dawn or dusk, when bears are most active
- Keep a clean campsite and store food and other scented items in bear boxes or other secure containers
- CARRY BEAR SPRAY AND KNOW HOW TO USE IT
What to Bring
When planning your trip to the McCarthy Area Campgrounds, be sure to bring the following essential items:
- Clothing and layers for changing weather conditions
- Waterproof gear, including a tent and sleeping bag
- Fishing gear and supplies, including a rod and reel
- Bear spray and other bear safety amenities
- A map and compass or GPS device
- First aid kit and emergency supplies
- Food and cooking gear, including a stove and fuel
- Firewood and other camping supplies
It’s also essential to follow the campgrounds’ firewood policy, which prohibits the use of non-local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species. The campgrounds have firewood available for purchase, and the staff can provide information and guidance on the best firewood options.
Firewood Policy
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds have a firewood policy that prohibits the use of non-local firewood to prevent the spread of invasive species. The campgrounds have firewood available for purchase, and the staff can provide information and guidance on the best firewood options. Be sure to follow the campgrounds’ firewood policy to protect the local environment and prevent the spread of invasive species.
Nearby Attractions & Towns
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds are located near a variety of attractions and towns, including the historic town of McCarthy, the Kennicott Mines, and the Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve. The town of McCarthy has a number of shops, restaurants, and museums, as well as a variety of guided tours and activities, such as flightseeing and glacier hiking.
The Kennicott Mines are a historic mining town that offers a variety of attractions and activities, including guided tours and hiking trails. The Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve is a vast and scenic park that offers a variety of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The campgrounds are also located near a number of other campgrounds and lodging options, including the Kennicott River Lodge and the McCarthy River Lodge.
Nearby Towns
- McCarthy: 10 miles, historic town with shops, restaurants, and museums
- Chitina: 60 miles, town with shops, restaurants, and gas stations
- Copper Center: 90 miles, town with shops, restaurants, and gas stations
Tips from Experienced Campers
Here are some tips from experienced campers to help you make the most of your trip to the McCarthy Area Campgrounds:
- Be sure to arrive early to secure a campsite, as the campgrounds can fill up quickly
- Bring layers and waterproof gear, as the weather in Alaska can be unpredictable
- Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising bears and other wildlife
- Keep a clean campsite and store food and other scented items in bear boxes or other secure containers
- CARRY BEAR SPRAY AND KNOW HOW TO USE IT
- Be respectful of other campers and the local environment, and follow the campgrounds’ rules and regulations
The McCarthy Area Campgrounds are a unique and special destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich history, the campgrounds are a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alaska. Be sure to plan ahead, follow the campgrounds’ rules and regulations, and respect the local environment to make the most of your trip.