Mckinley Lake Cabin
02 reviewsPO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK 99574, USA
Mckinley Lake Cabin
$60.00 - $60.00 / 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
The nightly rate for reserving the cabin is $60. Fees do not reflect taxes or discounts. Additional fees may apply for modifications ($10) or cancellations ($10).
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness at McKinley Lake Cabin, a secluded retreat nestled deep within Alaska's majestic Chugach National Forest. Your adventure begins with a scenic 2.25-mile journey—whether you choose to hike through ancient forests, paddle across pristine waters by canoe, or soar in by float plane. Once there, you'll discover a world of outdoor pursuits: cast your line into crystal-clear waters teeming with fish, explore winding trails through old-growth forest, track game through the wilderness, or simply watch as Alaska's remarkable wildlife goes about their daily routines in this pristine habitat.
McKinley Lake Cabin caters to campers seeking a primitive, off-the-grid experience in a remote Alaskan setting. Accommodations include a rustic cabin accessible only by hiking, canoeing, or float plane.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time as you explore the fascinating remnants of Alaska's gold rush era at the nearby Lucky Strike Mine. Rusting machinery stands silent among the trees, telling stories of fortune seekers who once called these mountains home. A collapsed tunnel entrance serves as a haunting reminder of the harsh realities faced by those who sought their dreams in this unforgiving landscape, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your wilderness adventure.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings refreshing cool temperatures and gentle rains that keep the forest lush and vibrant—perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. As winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the cabin becomes a true backcountry experience, with access requiring careful planning and winter wilderness skills as trails disappear beneath blankets of snow and lakes freeze into mirrors of ice.
ElevationPerched high in the dramatic mountain terrain of the Chugach range, the cabin offers breathtaking views and that crisp mountain air that makes every breath feel cleaner. The steep, challenging topography surrounding McKinley Lake creates a natural amphitheater of peaks and valleys, placing you firmly in Alaska's high country where eagles soar and the landscape stretches endlessly before you.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering spruce and hemlock trees that have stood sentinel over McKinley Lake for centuries. This pristine alpine lake reflects the surrounding forest like a mirror, while the haunting calls of loons echo across the water. Watch for the spectacular sight of sockeye salmon returning to spawn, glimpse deer picking their way through the underbrush, spot majestic moose feeding along the shoreline, and always remain bear-aware in this wild kingdom where these magnificent creatures roam freely through their natural habitat.
Geological RegionThe cabin sits within the dramatic geological tapestry of the Chugach National Forest, where ancient tectonic forces have sculpted steep mountain walls that plunge toward McKinley Lake. This pristine body of water is cradled by dense stands of spruce and hemlock that carpet the mountainsides, creating a quintessential Alaskan landscape where the raw power of geological time meets the enduring beauty of the northern rainforest ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. The 2.25-mile hike and remote location may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 16-by-20 feet, providing adequate space for up to six guests.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is surrounded by dense spruce and hemlock forest, offering a high degree of privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra supplies for inclement weather and prepare for a 2.25-mile hike.
Best CampsitesThis is a single cabin.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Available all day.
Check-out
Standard check-out times apply.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights per visit. Maximum total of 7 nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are allowed for this cabin.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before check-in. Late cancellations (14 days or fewer before check-in) incur $10 fees and forfeit the first night's 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
McKinley Lake Cabin offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and boating. The area is rich in natural and historical features, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking options include the McKinley Trail, which leads to the cabin, and the Pipeline Lakes Trail, branching off from the main trail. These trails pass through muskeg meadows and spruce-hemlock forests, with the McKinley Trail extending to the Lucky Strike Mine ruins.Fishing
Anglers can catch cutthroat trout in inlet creeks and gravel shoals near the cabin. The lake also offers coho and sockeye salmon fishing. The Pipeline Lakes Trail features five small lakes with resident trout and Dolly Varden.Boating
Boating access to the lake is possible via canoe or float plane. Canoeing requires navigating Alaganik Slough, which may have fallen trees and strong currents during glacier melt or rains. Docking facilities are not mentioned.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to loons, waterfowl, Sitka black-tailed deer, moose, black and brown bears, and sockeye salmon. Wildlife viewing is especially rewarding in spring and summer.Winter Activities
Winter access may be limited due to frozen lake surfaces. Detailed winter activities were not provided.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing are implied but not explicitly described.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Use existing wood stove. Visitors must bring their own firewood.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears and challenging weather conditions.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 82%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.1 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
The Cordova Ranger District office, reachable at 1 (907) 424-7661, provides guidance and safety information. Emergency services such as hospitals and police stations are in Cordova.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash and food. The cabin does not have trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on McKinley Lake, near inlet creeks and gravel shoals.
Common complaints"Cabin was very dirty" (user review). Small wood stove struggled during rain.
HostContact the Cordova Ranger District at 1 (907) 424-7661 for assistance.
Campground Map
PO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK 99574, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by float plane, canoe, or a 2.25-mile hike through dense forest. Hiking access begins at McKinley Lake Trail, a signed trailhead located at Mile 21 of the Copper River Highway. Access by boat or canoe is up Alaganik Slough to McKinley Lake, approximately 2 miles. Float plane access is typically 10 minutes from Cordova.
Road access is limited. The trailhead at the Copper River Highway is accessible via road, but the cabin itself requires a hike, canoe, or float plane for access. Seasonal stream conditions may complicate canoe/boat access.Nearby places
Cordova (approximately 10 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Cordova offers supplies including groceries, camping gear, and fuel. Visitors must bring all necessary items such as drinking water and firewood to the cabin.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Mckinley Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's remote beauty and the abundance of natural features but note challenges such as cleanliness and the small size of the wood stove. Seasonal access issues and the need for thorough preparation are common themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the cabin's picturesque location, the variety of outdoor activities available, and the opportunity for a true wilderness experience. Wildlife viewing and fishing are frequently...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Cleanliness was an issue for some users, with one reviewer stating, 'The cabin is older, very dirty so we did a lot of clean-up before getting comfortable.' Another concern was the small size of the...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra firewood ('wish people stocked wood for the next') and being prepared for variable weather conditions. Packing adequate supplies, including cleaning materials, is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most favored time to visit due to easier access and abundant wildlife and fishing opportunities. Winter and early spring visits are discouraged due to limited accessibility caused by...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'In late July, we stayed the night at the cabin... watched red salmon spawning all through the lake and especially in view of the cabin.' - Kay
2. 'The hike into the cabin was long (2.25 miles)...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The cabin itself is the sole accommodation, which users generally find spacious enough for a group of up to six.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No mentions of accessibility features or reviews related to individuals with disabilities were found.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically addressed pet policies or experiences.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025