Nellie Martin River Cabin
01 reviewPO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK 99574, USA
Nellie Martin River Cabin
$50.00 - $100.00 / 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
Cabin Nonelectric fees range from $50 during the non-peak season to $100 during the peak season (August 15 - September 15). Additional fees for changes or cancellations may apply, including a $10 change fee and a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations may forfeit the first night's fee.
About this campground
Escape to the edge of the wilderness at Nellie Martin River Cabin, where the untamed beauty of Montague Island becomes your personal sanctuary. This remote hideaway in Alaska invites adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience, where self-reliance meets spectacular natural wonder. Cast your line into pristine waters, paddle through peaceful coves, or comb endless beaches while eagles soar overhead. Here, minimal amenities aren't a limitation—they're your invitation to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with Alaska's raw magnificence.
The Nellie Martin River Cabin offers primitive, cabin-style lodging suitable for remote and self-sufficient stays.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the majestic Chugach National Forest, this cabin serves as a gateway to lands both public and private, where centuries of Alaska Native heritage meets modern conservation. The surrounding territory includes parcels owned by the Chugach Alaska Corporation, honoring the deep cultural connections to these lands. Visitors exploring northwest of the cabin should secure proper permissions, respecting the delicate balance between accessibility and preservation that makes this wildlife haven so extraordinary.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal personality, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland of heavy snows and arctic temperatures, while summer brings gentler days perfect for exploration. The mercurial weather keeps you on your toes—one moment bathed in sunshine, the next wrapped in mysterious coastal fog. Prime visiting season arrives when salmon run the rivers and wildflowers carpet the meadows, creating ideal conditions for fishing expeditions and backcountry adventures.
ElevationThe cabin rests at sea level, where the rhythms of the tides dictate the day's adventures and the salt-tinged air carries stories from the open ocean.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of towering Sitka spruce, where shafts of light filter through the canopy to illuminate a lush understory of native shrubs and coastal grasses. The melodic Nellie Martin River flows nearby, its waters a highway for salmon and a mirror for the sky. Less than a mile through the forest, discover a breathtaking shoreline where smooth pebbles meet golden sand, and panoramic views stretch across the Gulf of Alaska to distant mountain peaks. This living landscape hosts an incredible cast of wildlife—watch formations of migratory waterfowl paint patterns across the sky, catch glimpses of graceful Sitka black-tail deer emerging from the forest edge, and remain respectfully aware of the magnificent brown bears that rule this domain.
Geological RegionPerched on Montague Island at the dramatic entrance to Prince William Sound, this cabin occupies one of Alaska's most geologically fascinating locations. The island stands as a sentinel where the Gulf of Alaska meets protected waters, its shores sculpted by centuries of Pacific storms and tidal forces. Dense spruce forests blanket ancient bedrock, while the mixed sand and pebble beaches tell the story of powerful geological forces at work. From the shoreline, witness the spectacular amphitheater of surrounding peaks—silent witnesses to the incredible tectonic activity that continues to shape this dynamic landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNot specified. Access requires a wheel plane landing on the beach, suggesting limited accessibility for individuals with mobility impairments.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 12-by-14 feet and accommodates up to six people.
Sites PrivacyHighly private due to its remote location on Montague Island, surrounded by dense spruce forest and with no other cabins nearby.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommendations include bringing all necessary supplies such as sleeping bags, stove oil, matches, cooking utensils, and garbage bags. The area requires self-sufficiency.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole camping site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in not specified
- contact directly for time.
Check-out
- Check-out time not specified
- contact directly for time.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights allowed during a visit and 7 nights total within each month.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six people allowed per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with no specific layout described beyond proximity to the river and beach.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from March 14 to December 31. Peak season occurs between August 15 and September 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are allowed for the cabin.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled anytime before the check-in date, subject to a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations within 14 days of check-in. Late cancellations may also incur additional penalties.
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
The Nellie Martin River Cabin offers an array of outdoor activities, including fishing, hunting, kayaking, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. "The Nellie Martin River has one of the largest coho salmon runs in the Prince William Sound area," making it a prime location for fishing. Seasonal hunting for deer and bears is also popular, while the nearby beach offers opportunities for beachcombing.
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw, particularly during the coho salmon run in August and September. Pink salmon, Dolly Varden, and cutthroat trout are also common earlier in the season.Boating
Kayaking is a highlighted activity, with the cabin's proximity to the river and beach providing easy access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes migratory waterfowl, Sitka black-tailed deer, and brown bears. The area is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.Beach activities
The beach, located less than a mile from the cabin, is a popular spot for beachcombing and searching for Japanese fishing floats and other treasures.Winter Activities
The cabin's location and seasonal accessibility suggest limited winter activities.Water Sports
Kayaking is the primary water sport available. Visitors must bring their own equipment.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is not provided, and guests are encouraged to purchase and burn local firewood to prevent tree-killing pests.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include bear encounters, extreme weather, and the risks associated with remote access. Visitors are urged to familiarize themselves with bear and weather safety and be prepared for extended stays due to poor weather.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7 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
Contact the Cordova Ranger District at (907) 424-7661 for details; emergency services are likely located in Cordova.
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 15 - September 15
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Visitors must pack out all garbage and food waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Nellie Martin River, which has a notable coho salmon run and is shallow with deep meandering pools. Less than a mile from the beach.
Common complaintsVisitors have complained about previous groups leaving trash and old food in the cabin, which impacts cleanliness and maintenance.
HostContact the Cordova Ranger District at (907) 424-7661 for assistance and more details about the cabin.
Campground Map
PO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK 99574, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by wheel plane only, landing on the beach at low tide, typically 45 minutes from Seward or Cordova. The cabin is less than a mile from the beach landing area. Visitors are advised to consult tide tables for planning their arrival.
Accessible only by wheel plane landing on the beach at low tide. Visitors must plan around tide schedules and arrange their own transportation. This remote location can pose challenges for access during poor weather conditions.Nearby places
Cordova (~45-minute flight), Seward (~45-minute flight)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials would need to be purchased in Cordova or Seward prior to arrival as the cabin is extremely remote.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Nellie Martin River Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are limited but highlight the cabin's remote charm and the need for responsible visitor behavior to maintain it. "This is a small and very remote cabin," one user noted, emphasizing its isolation.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the cabin's remote location and the proximity to excellent fishing and beachcombing opportunities. The rustic experience is a standout feature for those seeking solitude.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Cleanliness issues were noted, with one reviewer stating the cabin was left as a 'pigsty' by previous visitors. The lack of provided amenities may also be a challenge for some.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers suggest bringing essential supplies, including cleaning gear, as visitors are responsible for their own accommodations. One user left dry firewood for the next group and advised others to...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The peak fishing season (August-September) is particularly busy, with heavy use described during the coho salmon run. Earlier in the season, pink salmon fishing is abundant.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is a small and very remote cabin. When we visited it the first week in Sept. 2022, it was a pigsty both inside and out from recent visitors leaving trash and old food all over the place. This...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific feedback mentions Loop: AREA NELLIE MARTIN RIVER CABIN, campsite C12.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available, though the need for a wheel plane to access the site suggests challenges for those with disabilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025