Details
Camp McCarthy — an amazing place to stay in McCarthy, Alaska
What to Expect
Camp McCarthy is a new luxury camping destination on 10 beautiful acres on the bank of the Kennicott River. Camp is just a two-mile drive from the footbridge to McCarthy and Kennicott — we are excited to share it with you!
The camp features:
Spacious, private, safari-style canvas tents with screened-in door and windows.
Premium mattresses for a luxurious sleeping experience.
Luxury linens and plush pillows.
Epic mountain and Kennicott River valley views.
Hot showers with shampoo, soap, and towels provided.
Being an outdoor glamping destination, the tents are not heated but no worries! Luxury bedding — including ultra-warm down comforters and hot water bottles ensure a cozy stay.
Portable heat is available. If you prefer to spot-heat your tent (just prior to bed and when you get up in the morning), you can rent a Big Buddy heater as an add-on from your host for $20. The heater comes with two one-pound propane cylinders that last up to 3-hours each.
In-tent small table and chairs for playing cards, board games, writing, etc.
Covered deck with ultra comfy patio chairs.
Solar lights and charging station for small devices such as phones, headlamp batteries, etc. No CPAPs please.
The Pavilion:
This impressive log-framed gathering space features:Hot showers
Food storage area
Propane burner for Camp’s hot water kettle
Café tables and chairs
Games, including cornhole
Campfire circle (firewood provided)
Toiletry cupboards for personal items
Handwashing sinks
…and more!
Very clean, well-maintained outhouses are a short walk from the Pavilion and the tents.
Guests must be comfortable using stairs and walking on natural ground with uneven terrain.
Hot water kettles are available to make coffee, tea, and to fill hot water bottles on chilly evenings.
Meals and Food: Camp is not equipped for cooking hot meals, but there are plenty of tasty and easy options to enjoy during your stay. Bring along picnic-style favorites like:
Fresh-baked muffins or pastries
Gourmet sandwiches or wraps
Crunchy granola with fresh fruit
Cheese and charcuterie boards
Yogurt parfaits with berries and nuts
Instant oatmeal or hearty dehydrated meals (just add hot water)
Campfire classics like hot dogs and s’mores
Why no cooking?
Bears live in the area and guest safety is our top priority — which means no food in tents and all eating happens in the Pavilion.For hot, cooked meals, you’re in luck — McCarthy and Kennicott are home to fantastic restaurants that make our corner of Alaska a true foodie destination. Grab a bite at the beloved Roadside Potatohead (a.k.a. The Potato), enjoy mountain views over a meal at Glacier View Grill (just one mile from Camp), or book a table for a fine dining experience at Salmon & Bear.
Campfires are allowed in the Pavilion’s designated fire pit (except when there is high fire danger). Firewood is provided.
Private on-site nature trail with incredible views of Kennicott and the Stairway Icefalls.
Drive-up access with space for one vehicle at each tent.
Other Tid-Bits
To help ensure a peaceful, relaxing stay for all guests, there are no children under 10 years at Camp. Exception: Age 6 + is OK with an Exclusive Stay.
To make a reservation and confirm a stay, full payment is due on receipt.
Reservations are not guaranteed without payment.
Being a small business with a tiny crew, Camp McCarthy has a set check-in window:
Check-in: 3pm - 6pm. There is a late check-in fee of $50 for guests arriving between 6 -7pm. Note: Free early check-ins may be available, please inquire!
Check-out: 11am
Camp McCarthy has a Pack it In, Pack it Out policy, meaning, don’t leave anything behind (food items, gear, trash, etc.). If you prefer not to take out your own trash, there is a trash disposal fee of $25 + (i.e., $25 per one 13-gallon size kitchen trash bag, my cost to have it hauled out).
Quiet time: 10pm - 8am
Packing Suggestions
Have an amazing experience. Be prepared!
Wondering what to wear? Casual, comfortable, warm, and quick dry layers are best. The weather in Alaska can vary greatly, from chilly mornings to hot and windy afternoons. Even on sunny days there may be periods of rain. Summer temperatures in McCarthy/Kennicott generally range from the 40’s to the high 70’s. Night temperatures in mid-August and September can get down into the 30’s.
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Warm layers. Fleece vest and/or fleece jacket, wool sweater, and - especially in August and September - a warm coat.
Shirts, pants, shorts. Comfort is key! Quick dry, lightweight and breathable clothing. Both long and short sleeve tops. At least one pair of shorts for hot sunny days.
Warm thermals. Polypropylene, silk, or wool for chilly and/or rainy days.
Rain gear. Lightweight and breathable, good quality rain jacket and pants for rain and wind.
Warm hat and gloves. For chilly days and nights. A brimmed hat for sunny days.
Casual lightweight hiking or walking shoes.
Slip-on shoes. For quick trips from the tent to outhouse, Pavilion, etc. (we’ll also have some available).
Slippers. For relaxing in your tent.
Warm socks. Made of wool (or similar). Cotton socks are not recommended.
Day pack. For your water bottle, snacks, extra layers and what you need for your adventures.
Bug Spray / Thermacells. Yes, the rumors are true. Mosquitoes and other flying insects can be a nuisance in Alaska! Note: Due to high fire danger, mosquito coils and other open flame insect repellents (i.e. citronella candles etc.) are not allowed at Camp McCarthy.
Headlamp/Flashlight. A must for August - September stays.
Camera. With extra batteries and/or charger.
Your favorite game. We have some games available, but feel free to bring your favorites for down-time at camp.
Snacks and other ready-to-eat foods are welcome, i.e., baked goods, sandwich fixings, cold cereal, charcuterie plates, cheese and crackers, etc. To keep camp safe, all food, drinks, and/or toiletries with a scent (toothpaste, shampoo, lotions, bug spray, etc.), must be stored in the Pavilion’s designated storage areas. We want bears to stay away from camp!
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Please don’t bring:
Guns
Fireworks
Dirt bikes or ATVs (not allowed to be driven anywhere on our property)
Camp stoves, candles, burning insect repellents, or anything with an open flame
Amplified speakers
