Caribou Creek Cabin
4.1512 reviewsSeward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur
Caribou Creek Cabin
$50.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates from May 01 to September 30 are $75 per night for the cabin. Non-peak season rates from October 01 to December 31 are $50 per night plus a $25 weekend surcharge. Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Deep in the untamed wilderness of south-central Alaska, Caribou Creek Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic frontier experience. This remote sanctuary rewards those willing to journey by foot, bike, ski, or horseback along rugged trails, where the promise of golden treasures still glimmers in creek beds and big game roams freely through ancient forests. Here, far from the modern world, visitors discover Alaska as it has existed for generations—wild, beautiful, and full of possibility.
Caribou Creek Cabin is a public use cabin offering rustic accommodations for small groups. It is accessible only by hiking, biking, snowshoeing, or snowmobiles.
Historical SignificanceThe spirit of Alaska's gold rush era lives on at Caribou Creek, where modern-day prospectors can still try their luck panning for gold in designated public areas. While active mining claims dot the surrounding private lands, visitors can experience the thrill of sifting through creek gravels just as fortune-seekers did over a century ago, connecting with a tradition that helped shape Alaska's rugged identity.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme in this corner of Alaska, painting dramatic landscapes with ever-changing weather. Winter transforms the region into a crystalline wonderland of deep snow and profound silence, while summer brings endless daylight and bursts of wildflower color. With cloud cover gracing the sky about 62% of the time and precipitation visiting roughly every third day, the best windows for exploration open during those magical weeks when clear skies meet moderate temperatures—perfect for creek-side adventures and starlit evenings by the cabin.
ElevationNestled within Alaska's varied topography, the cabin sits at an elevation where boreal forest thrives and mountain views inspire, though specific elevation details await discovery by those who make the journey.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched beside the babbling waters of Caribou Creek, this authentic log cabin serves as your gateway to Alaska's boreal wilderness. Towering spruce and birch create a living cathedral overhead, while the creek's gentle melody provides nature's soundtrack. This is the domain of Alaska's iconic wildlife—majestic moose browse through willows, both black and brown bears fish for seasonal trout runs, and the haunting call of wolves echoes through moonlit nights. Every window frames a postcard-worthy scene of raw, untouched beauty.
Geological RegionThe Eastern Kenai Peninsula cradles this wilderness retreat, where the legendary Resurrection Pass Trail winds through a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers and time. Mountain peaks rise like sentinels above creek valleys, while the boreal forest stretches endlessly in all directions. This geological wonderland represents millions of years of natural artistry—from the mineral-rich creek beds that still yield gold to the dramatic ridgelines that define the horizon, creating an outdoor playground for those who seek adventure in Alaska's magnificent backcountry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned but hiking or using snowmobiles are required to access the cabin.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate up to eight individuals, with bunk space for six.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin provides a secluded and quiet camping experience, situated on the banks of a creek at the fork of two streams.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring firewood and water as neither is provided. Consider using cleats or snowshoes during icy seasons.
Best CampsitesCabin S13 is the sole site and highly rated for location and ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum 3 nights stay during a visit from May 15 to August 31.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 people.
Groups
- Group camping sites are not available
- the cabin accommodates up to eight people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin located at creek forks.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 01 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved online only; walk-up availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations within 14 days of arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds for no-shows or early departures. Single-night cancellations do not incur a service fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Caribou Creek Cabin offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and gold panning along Resurrection Pass Trail. It also serves as a base for big game hunting for moose, bears, Dall sheep, mountain goats, caribou, and wolves. Fishing opportunities in the area are limited.
Hiking
Hiking is popular along the Resurrection Pass Trail. The trail offers scenic views and is moderately challenging. Some user reviews mention the trail being overgrown in parts, and it rarely comes down to the creek. Winter users should prepare for snow and ice conditions.Biking
Mountain biking is one of the popular activities along Resurrection Pass Trail, although certain seasons and trail conditions may restrict access.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with opportunities to observe moose, bears, and other animals. Some visitors reported seeing wolf tracks near the trail.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking with ice cleats. Snowmobiles are allowed every other year.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No firewood is provided; visitors must bring their own or source from the surrounding area. Leave wood for subsequent guests.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential moose and bear activity. Winter travelers must evaluate avalanche and over-ice conditions. Creek water must be treated or boiled before consumption.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Seward Ranger District office is reachable at 907-288-3178. Emergency services specifics such as hospitals and police stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingAll garbage and food must be packed out by visitors as there are no trash and recycling facilities provided.
Proximity to water featuresCabin is next to Caribou Creek, offering water sources that must be purified before use.
Common complaintsSome user reviews cite challenges with overgrown trails and icy conditions. Lack of chopped firewood upon arrival is mentioned.
Campground Map
Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur
Driving directionsFollow the Hope Highway from Seward Highway after arriving on the Kenai Peninsula. From the Resurrection Pass North Trailhead, at milepost 4 of Resurrection Creek Road, hike 7 miles to the cabin. In winter, add one extra mile of travel as Resurrection Creek Road is not plowed to the trailhead. From the Resurrection Pass South Trailhead, at milepost 53.2 on Sterling Highway, hike 31.8 miles to the cabin.
The trail to the cabin is open to snowmobiles every other year and is not plowed during winter. It requires hiking, biking, skiing, horseback riding, or snowmobile travel, making access challenging for those without appropriate transportation or gear.Nearby supplies
Supplies specifics such as locations for fuel, groceries, or camping gear are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.2
12 reviews
Caribou Creek Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, visitors rate Caribou Creek Cabin positively, with an average sentiment of 4.07 out of 5. It is praised for its rustic charm, remote location, and opportunities for solitude. However, the lack of amenities like firewood, potable water, and trail conditions during certain seasons have been points of concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the scenic location, comfortable cabin setup, and various outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. Winter visitors note the coziness of the cabin...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of firewood on-site, overgrown trails that make hiking challenging, and icy or snowy conditions that necessitate extra gear for access during winter.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing adequate gear for hiking or skiing, leaving firewood for the next guests, packing out all garbage, and being prepared for remote and rugged conditions. Some reviews...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews often mention icy or snowy trail conditions, requiring snowmobiles or cleats. Summer reviews highlight overgrown trails and warmer conditions, with visitors enjoying hiking and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"What a great cabin. Make sure to book it online. Leave wood for the next people!" - Ryan Jimenez. "The cabin was nice. The updating and cleaning up that was done sometime in the last several years...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site S13, Loop: AREA CARIBOU CREEK CABIN features prominently in reviews, with visitors generally rating it highly for quiet, scenic camping. However, challenges related to firewood availability and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is limited due to the remote location, requiring strenuous hiking, biking, or skiing to reach the cabin. Snowmobiles are allowed every other year.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no explicit mentions of pet policies, but one review included dogs accompanying visitors during a winter trip.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025