Camp McCarthy – Dryas Camp | Glamping in Alaska

Escape to Dryas Camp at Camp McCarthy, a peaceful glamping retreat nestled on the Kennicott River near McCarthy. Stay in a cozy safari-style tent-cabin with plush bedding, breathtaking views, and convenient drive-up access. Enjoy hot showers, a campfire circle, a scenic nature trail, and the shared Pavilion. Ages 10+ for a serene stay for all guests. Check-in: 3–6pm. The space Welcome to Camp McCarthy! Our four spacious safari-style canvas tents are thoughtfully designed to elevate your glamping experience. Each features sturdy log frames, covered cedar decks, stunning views, stylish furnishings, privacy, and luxury bedding—creating cozy, inviting spaces you'll love. All four tents are individually listed on Airbnb. Note: Three night minimum over July 4th weekend. Tent 1 – Dryas Camp and Tent 2 – Spruce Camp are closest to the Pavilion, accessible via a staircase down a small bluff. Tent 3 – River Camp and Tent 4 – Sparrow Camp are set farther from the Pavilion, reached by a gentle gravel walking path. Clean, well-maintained outhouses are a short walk from the Pavilion and the tents. The Pavilion is our shared gathering space, featuring hot showers, a campfire circle, café tables and chairs, a corn hole game, and more! Camp McCarthy 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? Cooking odors can attract wildlife, and bears do live in the area. 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 have made our little corner of Alaska a true foodie destination. Each tent has parking available for one vehicle. Camp McCarthy is just a short, 2-mile drive from the end of the McCarthy Road and the Footbridge that accesses McCarthy and Kennicott. Check-in window: 3pm – 6pm Camp is super special, I’d love to have you stay! — Denise Guest access Camp McCarthy is just a short 2-mile drive from the end of McCarthy Road and the footbridge leading to the historic towns of McCarthy and Kennicott. At the road’s end, you’ll find a privately owned, fee-based parking area right next to the footbridge. From there: - It’s just over a half-mile walk into McCarthy. - Kennicott is about five miles farther up the road from town. A convenient shuttle runs throughout the day (typically 8:30am–7pm in peak season) between Kennicott, the footbridge, and McCarthy ($10 - $20). We highly recommend taking the shuttle round-trip to Kennicott—save your energy for exploring the historic mill town, hiking the Root Glacier trail, and soaking in the stunning scenery. Be sure to stop by the McCarthy Museum—and treat yourself to a delicious meal at The Potato, a local favorite for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. After a full day of adventure, return to Camp McCarthy to relax with a campfire, a game or two, a quiet walk on the nature trail, or a cozy evening in your tent with a good book. Other things to note Check-in is from 3–6 pm. Late arrivals between 6–7 pm incur a $50 fee; sorry, there are no check-ins after 7 pm. Check-out is by 11 am. There is no landfill in the area so Camp McCarthy follows a pack it in, pack it out policy—please take all trash, food (including condiments), and gear when you leave. If you prefer, we can dispose of trash for $25 per standard 13-gallon bag. Each tent includes parking for at least one vehicle. The Pavilion provides food storage space for one cooler per tent and shelving for dry goods. To keep camp bear-safe, only ready-to-eat foods are allowed, and no on-site cooking is permitted. We are in true Alaska wilderness, and guests accept responsibility for their safety, belongings, and any impacts from weather or wildlife. We look forward to providing you with a safe, memorable, and relaxing glamping experience in the heart of Alaska’s stunning Wrangell St Elias National Park.