Harrison Lagoon Cabin
4.3614 reviews145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129, Girdwood, AK 99587, USA
Harrison Lagoon 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 are $75 per night, while non-peak season rates from October through April are $50 per night. Fees include the cabin rental but may not reflect additional charges such as taxes or reservation fees.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed beauty of Prince William Sound at Harrison Lagoon Cabin, where six adventurers can find sanctuary in Alaska's pristine wilderness year-round. This remote hideaway beckons those seeking authentic solitude, complete with the cozy warmth of a kerosene stove, rustic outhouse facilities, and front-row seats to nature's most spectacular wildlife theater. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the rhythm of tides and the calls of wild creatures.
Harrison Lagoon Cabin offers rustic cabin accommodations suitable for a range of outdoor enthusiasts. Activities include kayaking, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Harrison Lagoon with its own dramatic brushstrokes. Winter transforms this coastal refuge into a crystalline wonderland, where snow blankets the evergreens and temperatures plunge into an icy embrace. As summer arrives, the landscape softens under moderate temperatures, though Pacific storms still sweep through, bringing life-giving rain to the lush forests. The ever-changing weather adds to the adventure, reminding visitors they've entered a realm where nature sets the schedule.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched between worlds on a windswept gravel spit, Harrison Lagoon Cabin offers a front-row seat to Alaska's most breathtaking natural amphitheater. Dense evergreen forests cascade down to meet rocky shorelines, while snow-crowned peaks pierce the horizon across Port Wells. The protected waters of the lagoon create a natural sanctuary where black bears fish along the shore, Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows, and bald eagles patrol the skies. The surrounding waters teem with marine life—playful porpoises, curious seals, and graceful sea otters share their domain with majestic sea lions, while orcas and humpback whales make seasonal appearances that leave visitors spellbound.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent expanse of Prince William Sound in the Chugach National Forest, Harrison Lagoon Cabin occupies a unique geological threshold. The cabin stands sentinel on a narrow gravel spit—nature's own bridge between the tranquil lagoon and the dynamic waters of the Sound. This remarkable positioning, flanked by ancient rocky shorelines and verdant evergreen forests, offers visitors a rare opportunity to experience the powerful forces that have shaped this rugged coastline over millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include wider doors and more floor space to accommodate wheelchairs. However, there is a steep approach from the salt water to the boardwalk, which may require assistance.
Sites SizeThe cabin sleeps up to six people and contains basic furniture like wooden bunks and a table with benches.
Sites PrivacyAs the cabin is located in a remote wilderness area, it offers a high degree of privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors should bring extra kerosene, lanterns or headlamps due to the cabin's darkness, and consult tide tables to avoid being stranded. Bringing firewood for campfires is recommended.
Best CampsitesHarrison Lagoon Cabin is the only site in this campground, and it is highly rated for its remote location and access to wildlife.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM night of rental.
Check-out
12:00 PM the following day.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground. You may stay up to 7 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 6 people due to cabin size and sleeping arrangements.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is surrounded by a boardwalk leading to the outhouse with views facing both Port Wells and the lagoon.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season is May 1 through September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Contact the Glacier Ranger District for any additional clarifications.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are mandatory and must be booked in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for cabins occur within 14 calendar days or fewer before scheduled check-in and result in forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee. Changes also incur a $10 fee if modifying dates outside the original reservation.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Harrison Lagoon Cabin include kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, berry picking, and shrimping. Guests can explore nearby trails like the Granite Mine Trail via a beach walk, and tide tables are essential for timing such activities.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include walking the lagoon at low tide and accessing the Granite Mine Trailhead via a one-mile beach walk south of the cabin along Port Wells. Tide tables should be consulted to avoid getting stranded.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are fair for pink salmon in August, either in Lagoon Creek or the surrounding saltwater areas. Shrimping is also possible.Boating
Boating is supported, although the lagoon drains at low tide and should only be navigated by skiffs. Short-term anchoring is possible at the shoal east of the lagoon.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, Dall's and harbor porpoises, harbor seals, sea otters, some sea lions, orcas, and humpback whales. Seabirds are also plentiful.Beach activities
Beach-related activities include walking along the gravel spit between the lagoon and Port Wells and exploring rocky shorelines. Berry picking for blueberries and salmonberries is available in-season.Winter Activities
Winter activities may include general wildlife viewing or using the cabin as a base for exploration, though extreme cold temperatures and snow may limit usability.Water Sports
Kayaking and shrimping are popular water sports in the lagoon and surrounding areas.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood should be purchased locally to prevent pests. Guests must pack out all ashes and debris.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include extreme weather, bears, high tide cycles affecting lagoon access, and risks from Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning during shellfish harvesting.
Weather forecast
46
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Foggy
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
Glacier Ranger District office (907-783-3242). Emergency services may need to be accessed in Anchorage or Cordova, approximately 40-60 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 through September 30.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling are not provided; guests must pack out all trash and clean the cabin before departure.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is located near the lagoon and Port Wells. Drinking water is accessible by kayak at Lagoon Creek or walking south along the shoreline at low tide.
Common complaintsReviews mention challenges related to heating the cabin during colder months, difficulties with the composting toilet, and anchoring issues in the lagoon at low tide. The lack of direct sunlight in the cabin was noted as making it dark inside.
Campground Map
145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129, Girdwood, AK 99587, USA
Driving directionsThe cabin is on the west side of Port Wells, two miles north of Hobo Bay. It is accessible by float plane, 40 miles from Anchorage or 60 miles from Cordova, or by boat, 34 miles from Whittier. The lagoon drains at low tide and should only be navigated by skiffs. Local tide reports should be consulted prior to arrival as they affect transportation and recreation. The shoal to the east of the lagoon should only be used for short-term anchoring (unprotected). Boats are not provided by the Forest Service.
This Cabin is not accessible via the road system. Access is restricted to float planes or boats, and local tide conditions must be considered for both approaches.Nearby places
Anchorage (40 miles), Cordova (60 miles), Whittier (34 miles).
Nearby supplies
Anchorage (40 miles), Cordova (60 miles), Whittier (34 miles) for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
14 reviews
Harrison Lagoon Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews offer mixed sentiments about the cabin's amenities and usability. While many praise its remote location and abundant wildlife, recurring issues include the inadequacy of the kerosene stove in colder months and the awkwardness of the composting toilet.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the cabin for its spacious interior, accessibility improvements, scenic beauty, and abundant wildlife. Activities like kayaking, hiking, and shrimping receive strong positive...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns often center on the kerosene stove's inability to sufficiently heat the cabin in colder months, the awkward operation of the composting toilet, and challenges related to tides affecting boat...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing extra kerosene during colder months, consulting tide tables for safe lagoon navigation and hiking, and packing essential items like lanterns, headlamps, and water treatment...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter stays received negative feedback due to insufficient heating and extreme cold temperatures. Summer visits garnered positive reviews for wildlife viewing, kayaking, and berry picking. Tidal...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The cabin and location is perfect we had a good time there for 3 nights." - Robert L
2. "Watching wildlife is an added bonus. Kayaking around the lagoon is always an adventure." - Jani O
3....
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are limited to feedback about the cabin itself, which is praised for its spaciousness and accessibility improvements.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility improvements such as the widened doors and boardwalk received positive remarks, though the steep approach from the saltwater remains challenging for some users.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025