Base Camp Kennicott

Many of the sites have good views of the Root Glacier. The ground is pretty rocky everywhere and you should have a thick air mattress if tenting. There is no drinking water available and no trash disposal. The manager was somewhat disingenuous when he told us there was a dumpster 4.7 miles down the McCarthy road and then again every 5 miles. None of that was true.

Thrilled to have heard glacier cracking throughout our stay thanks to the owner’s suggestion to go on the north side of the campground from where you can see Kennicott Glacier and town. Short walk to bridge to catch shuttles-no need to reserve in advance and there are two restaurants in McCarthy to enjoy as well as a Gen’l Store where Betsy makes a delicious cappuccino and they have some snacks. Good cell service with Verizon (as it was most of McCarthy road which we managed easily enough with a 2wd. Go, stay, and enjoy.

# 17 Wrangell St. Elias NP
08/23-28 Base Camp Kennicott
No reservations required. No potable water (none to filter unless you go into McCarthy). Pit toilets only. Some sites have picnic tables all have stone Fire-pits. Firewood available for purchase, E-bike rentals at the campground and you can also purchase artwork by Michael Chambers (Camp Owner, Host, and local artist- someone please ask him his origin story because he was off day we left and didn’t get the scoop about how someone ends up in McCarthy and stays 50yrs).

It’s a long but scenic drive to reach this spot. We used the campground for parking, which was free since we stayed at the NP hotel. There’s a small convenience store and a restroom. You cross the bridge on foot, and a pickup service (about every hour) is available on the other side.

Michael Chambers at Base Camp offers a truly unique Alaskan experience with views for days. Take the time to stay the night and explore McCarty and visit the mine and you won’t be disappointed.

Mike has all your camping needs covered and be sure to visit his art gallery and rent a bike to get around.

Bring a garage bag and be prepared to pack out what you pack in. Tell Mike Linda from mile marker 50 sent you.

Very beautiful camping area - our back door opened up to the lake and a glacier. Lots of places to park, but if you park near an outhouse, be prepared for close neighbors. We paid $35/night, no water, no dump, outhouses. There are lots of fire rings and gravel spots to choose from, all within walking distance to the footbridge. This same business will also sell you shuttle passes to get to Kennicott.