Crescent Lake Cabin
3.8413 reviewsSeward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur
Crescent Lake 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
Facility rates are $75 per night during the peak season (May 1 - September 30) and $50 per night during the non-peak season (October 1 - December 31). Rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
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About this campground
Nestled in Alaska's pristine wilderness, Crescent Lake Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This charming rustic retreat serves as your gateway to world-class fishing in crystal-clear waters, challenging hunting grounds, and miles of scenic trails perfect for hiking in summer or cross-country skiing through winter wonderlands. While the cabin provides sturdy shelter and timeless charm, guests should come prepared with their own gear and provisions for a true self-sufficient wilderness adventure.
Crescent Lake Cabin is a rustic cabin offering limited amenities. It is accessible by hiking, biking, snowmobile, horseback, skiing, or floatplane.
Weather and SeasonsThe cabin transforms with Alaska's dramatic seasons, each offering its own rewards and challenges. From May through September, the landscape bursts with life as wildflowers bloom and wildlife emerges, creating ideal conditions for exploration. As autumn arrives, the surrounding mountains paint themselves in gold and crimson. Winter brings a magical but formidable transformation, blanketing the area in deep snow while introducing serious alpine hazards including avalanche risk and fierce winds. Spring's warming temperatures gradually unveil the landscape beneath melting snow, signaling nature's renewal and the return of accessible trails.
ElevationPerched at 1,450 feet above sea level, the cabin sits at a remarkable elevation where the forest begins its transition to alpine terrain. This strategic position near the tree line rewards visitors with expansive panoramic views while maintaining the shelter and beauty of the surrounding forest canopy.
Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin claims an enviable position near the northwest shores of Crescent Lake, where pristine waters mirror the surrounding peaks in perfect reflection. At 1,450 feet elevation, you'll find yourself in a transitional wonderland where dense forest gives way to alpine meadows, and towering mountains frame every view. The proximity to the tree line creates a unique ecosystem where visitors can experience both the intimacy of forest trails and the grandeur of open mountain vistas in a single day's adventure.
Geological RegionTucked away south of the Sterling Highway, the cabin occupies a spectacular setting near Crescent Lake's northwest reaches at 1,450 feet elevation. This remarkable location places you at nature's threshold, where the forested lower elevations meet the dramatic alpine zone. The surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater of stone and snow, while the nearby tree line offers unobstructed views of the majestic mountain landscape that defines this corner of Alaska.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself accommodates up to eight individuals and includes bunk space for six.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a secluded and scenic area near Crescent Lake, offering privacy and tranquility.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring your own saw and splitting maul for cutting firewood. Be prepared for extreme weather conditions and plan accordingly for water safety.
Best CampsitesThe cabin is the sole accommodation available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in time details are unavailable
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Check-out
- Check-out time details are unavailable
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 3 consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 people per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle rustic cabin located near Crescent Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season is from May 1 to December 31. Reservations start June 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov 180 days in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis facility must be reserved in advance; walk-up availability is not indicated.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled within 14 days of arrival; a $10 service fee and forfeiture of the first night’s recreation use fee apply. No-shows, early departures, or cancellations after the scheduled arrival date are non-refundable.
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
Crescent Lake Cabin offers numerous recreational opportunities, including fishing, hunting, hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. In season, visitors can hunt for moose, black and brown bears, and Dall sheep. The lake is popular for fishing, specifically for grayling, and a rowboat with oars is provided. "Fishing in Crescent Lake is very popular for grayling. A rowboat with oars is available at the cabin," notes the official description. Hiking and horseback riding are also popular, although visitors are cautioned about avalanche dangers in winter and early spring.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity at Crescent Lake Cabin, with trails offering scenic views of nearby mountains. "Hiking, horseback riding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular activities," notes the official description. Some user reviews highlight challenges like muddy trails and overgrown cow parsnip in non-wooded areas.Fishing
Fishing is a major draw at Crescent Lake, especially for grayling. A rowboat with oars is provided for guests, although fishing equipment and life jackets are not included. "Fishing in Crescent Lake is very popular for grayling," says the official description. Some reviews mention fishing combined with pack rafting as enjoyable activities.Biking
Biking is listed as one of the possible access methods for reaching the cabin. "This site can be accessed by hiking, biking, skiing, horseback, snowmobile and floatplane," notes the official description.Boating
The cabin provides a rowboat with oars, allowing guests to explore Crescent Lake. User reviews highlight the enjoyment of paddling across the lake to its islands.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with animals like moose, bears, and Dall sheep frequently mentioned. User reviews also note sightings of loons and dipper birds.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Visitors are cautioned about extreme avalanche danger during winter and early spring.Water Sports
Fishing and pack rafting are popular water-related activities at Crescent Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Visitors can use the provided wood stove for heat; no cut firewood is available. All garbage and food must be packed out.
- Quiet hours information is unavailable; null.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include avalanche danger during winter and early spring, high winds on Crescent Lake, and overgrown trail sections with cow parsnip that can cause skin irritation.
Active alertsCurrent warnings include the presence of elodea in Crescent Lake and seasonal avalanche dangers.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Emergency Services
For safety precautions, travelers are advised to contact the Seward Ranger District office.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30 (Peak Season); October 1 - December 31 (Non-Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingAll garbage and food must be packed out by visitors. "All garbage and food must be packed out," according to the official descriptions.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Crescent Lake with scenic views and access for fishing and boating.
Common complaintsUser complaints include difficulty finding suitable dry firewood and dull tools provided at the cabin. Overgrown trail sections with cow parsnip are also noted.
HostHost information is unavailable; null.
Campground Map
Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur
Driving directionsFrom milepost 45 on Sterling Highway, take Quartz Creek road 3.2 miles to the Crescent Creek trailhead. The cabin is 6.5 miles down the Crescent Creek Trail. Winter travelers need to be able to evaluate avalanche and over-ice travel conditions. The trail is closed to horse/pack stock from April 1 to June 30, and is closed to motor vehicles between May 1 and Nov. 30. Refer to USGS maps Seward B7, C7 and C8. Maps are available online or by calling the Seward Ranger District at 907-288-3178.
Access involves a 6.5-mile hike on Crescent Creek Trail. Winter travelers must evaluate avalanche and over-ice travel conditions. Seasonal closures affect horse/pack stock (April 1 to June 30) and motor vehicles (May 1 to Nov. 30).Nearby places
SEWARD, AK (Exact distance not provided)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies information is unavailable, null.
Camper Reviews
3.8
13 reviews
Crescent Lake Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User experiences at Crescent Lake Cabin vary, with many highlighting its scenic beauty and remote location. Positive feedback often emphasizes the cabin's cleanliness, well-maintained condition, and the range of recreational activities. Negative comments are usually related to the lack of amenities such as firewood and potable water.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the cabin's scenic location near Crescent Lake and its clean, well-maintained condition. "The cabin itself was great," and "Love this cabin!" are common sentiments. Guests also...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of readily available firewood and the condition of tools like the saw and maul. "No saw available. Tough to keep cabin warm with just scavenged branches," noted one...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing along essential items like a saw, firewood, and toilet paper. "Highly recommend bringing your own TP though," advised one reviewer. Another suggested, "Definitely get out on...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight fishing, hiking, and boating as the most enjoyable activities, while winter reviews emphasize snowmobiling and the challenges of snow-covered trails. Avalanche dangers...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The experience was amazing and we had a wonderful time." "The trail was muddy, but we still had a great time fishing and pack rafting." "Always a great place to stay. Good dry wood is in short...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for S02 in Area Crescent Lake Cabin often praise its picturesque location and well-maintained facilities. "The cabin was clean and ready for us when we arrived," noted one user.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no reviews specifically addressing accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no reviews specifically addressing pet policies or experiences from pet owners.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025