There have been several things that have changed at McNeil since I was there in 1998. Kevin Ferris was there in 2002 and sent me this update about things there at McNeil. I'll post more as I get a chance. I hope this information will help you plan your trip. As you know things can change and it's bets to contact Alaska Fish and Game for all the latest changes.
1) Katmai Air no longer flies to McNeil. There are several air taxi services that do. However, they are more expensive than when we went in 1998.
Also, back in 1998, they were a little lax in charging us for excess weight. We were about 40 pounds over and they didn't charge us for it. However, this time I was charged for every pound over the 75 pound limit. So was everyone else that I spoke with.
2) There is a propane stove in the cook shed. You don't have to bring a stove or fuel.
3) There are several pairs of hip waders that have been left behind. If you forget yours, you can probably find a pair that will work for you.
4) There are also several tarps that have been left behind that you can use for additional protection for your tent.
5) There is a little less room in the cook shed to store your photo gear because the tarps & hip waders that were left behind are stored in the overhead spaces. Many people were just leaving their camera bags on the floor of the cook shed each night.
6) The barrel that collects rainwater from the roof has a much better pumping system (you will still need to get a lot of your water from the stream so bring your water filters & purifiers).
Mark
page updated 3/20/2004 by Mark Hardgrave