Paulson Bay Cabin
4.2412 reviews145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129
Paulson Bay Cabin
$50.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$75.00
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
Seasonal rates apply: $75 during peak season (May 1 - September 30), $50 during non-peak seasons (October 1 - April 30). Discounts, taxes, or incremental charges are not reflected in these rates.
About this campground
Escape to the edge of the world at Paulson Bay Cabin, where the wild heart of Prince William Sound beats strongest. This remote wilderness sanctuary beckons adventurers year-round, offering front-row seats to Alaska's most spectacular marine wilderness. Whether you're gliding through pristine waters in a kayak, casting lines into fish-rich depths, or simply watching orcas breach against a backdrop of ancient glaciers, this secluded haven promises the authentic Alaskan experience that modern life rarely allows. Come prepared for true wilderness immersion—this is where self-sufficiency meets soul-stirring beauty.
Paulson Bay Cabin is a remote, primitive lodging option accessible only by float plane or boat. It caters to wilderness campers seeking solitude and adventure.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Paulson Bay, painting each season with its own dramatic palette. Summer unveils the sound's gentler side, with warmer temperatures coaxing calm waters perfect for exploration. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of change, while winter and spring wrap the bay in a cloak of raw, pristine beauty that demands respect and proper cold-weather gear. Throughout the year, Prince William Sound's famously mercurial weather keeps visitors on their toes—sudden winds can whip peaceful waters into whitecaps, and rain often arrives unannounced, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled at the head of Paulson Bay, this cabin serves as your personal gateway to one of Alaska's most breathtaking natural amphitheaters. Rugged mountains rise like ancient sentinels from rolling carpets of muskeg, their peaks reflected in the sound's ever-changing waters. To the west, the legendary Port Wells opens up, revealing the ice-carved wonders of College Fiord and the mighty Harvard Glacier—a frozen river of blue ice that has captivated explorers for generations. This living landscape pulses with wildlife: black bears amble through the undergrowth, Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from misty forests, and bald eagles patrol the skies. Below the surface, the marine world thrives—playful sea otters float among the kelp while pods of orcas and acrobatic Dall's porpoises transform the sound into nature's greatest theater.
Geological RegionPaulson Bay sits like a jewel on the western shores of Cochrane Bay, deep within the embrace of Prince William Sound's geological wonderland. This dynamic landscape tells the story of ice and time, where rugged mountain peaks carved by ancient glaciers give way to gentle expanses of spongy muskeg. The surrounding waters teem with marine life, creating one of the planet's richest ecosystems where the Pacific Ocean meets Alaska's dramatic coastline. Here, tectonic forces and glacial artistry have sculpted a realm where land and sea intertwine in endless fascination.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin has limited space but accommodates up to six guests. It is described as small for groups but perfect for two people.
Sites PrivacySecluded environment due to its remote location on the bluff above the beach.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose low tide for easier access to stairs. User reviews suggest bringing dry firewood and plenty of kerosene for the stove.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself (G06) is the only campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM night of rental
Check-out
12:00 PM the following day
Stay Limit
- 7nights per stay
- cumulative maximum of 7 nights within any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is six guests 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 layout situated on a bluff accessible via steps from the beach.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is open year-round, but seasonal rates and conditions apply. Peak season runs from May 1 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov. Changes or cancellations are subject to fees.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability due to the reservable nature of the cabin and its remote location.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the date of scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and any reservation fees are non-refundable. Late cancellations (<1 day for campsites, <14 days for cabins) will incur additional penalties such as forfeiting 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
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Paulson Bay Cabin provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and hunting, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. "Fishing is good for chum and pink salmon, usually from late July through August. Guests can also catch shrimp and bottom fish. Hunting for bear and waterfowl is available in season with the proper permits." Kayaking is popular but requires consulting tide reports due to submerged rock ledges.
Hiking
Hiking is relatively easy due to minimal brush obstruction. A three-quarter mile route leads north from the cabin to the creek.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include chum and pink salmon (late July-August), shrimp, and bottom fish. "Guests can bring kayaks for exploring the coastline and the bay. Local tide reports should be consulted before any kayaking trip."Boating
Kayaking is the main boating activity available. Users often work with charters like Lazy Otter Charters and Alaska Sea Kayakers for drop-off and pick-up logistics.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, humpback whales, otters, porpoises, and more. Guests often see bears near the creek and salmon spawning.Beach activities
Beachcombing and observing salmon along the shore are popular activities. "Saw bears eating dead pink salmon on the beach directly below the cabin."Winter Activities
Winter conditions may require additional preparation, including heating fuel and weather safety.Water Sports
Kayaking and shrimping are popular water sports here. Guests often collaborate with charters for a comprehensive experience.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests should pack their own firewood for outdoor fires. The kerosene stove in the cabin is the primary heating source.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include submerged rock ledges, bear encounters, weather challenges, and Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning risks when consuming shellfish.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
For emergency services, contact the Forest Service office in Girdwood by phone (907-783-3242). Additional emergency services such as hospitals and police stations are located in Anchorage, AK.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash and leave the cabin clean upon departure.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is near a stream, waterfalls, and the bay, providing opportunities for kayaking, shrimping, and fishing. Users note salmon runs and submerged rock ledges.
Common complaintsUser complaints include the kerosene stove being temperamental, warped outhouse doors, and challenges with accessing the cabin during high tide or strong winds.
Campground Map
145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129
Driving directionsTo access the cabin by float plane: it is 40 minutes from Anchorage and 60 minutes from Cordova. By boat, the trip is 18 miles from Whittier. Note: the Bay is not obvious because the mouth is partially obscured by five small islands. Beware of submerged rock ledges between islands and off coastal points. Check local tide tables ahead of time to determine the best arrival and departure times.
The cabin is not accessible via the road system, requiring access via float plane or boat. Roads do not connect to this location, and travel arrangements must account for challenging conditions such as submerged rock ledges near the bay.Nearby places
Anchorage: 40 minutes (float plane), Cordova: 60 minutes (float plane), Whittier: 18 miles (boat).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be sourced from nearby towns such as Whittier or Anchorage. Guests must bring all essentials including water, kerosene, and camping gear due to the remote nature of this cabin.
Camper Reviews
4.2
12 reviews
Paulson Bay Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the cabin's views, proximity to wildlife, and opportunities for recreation such as kayaking and fishing. However, they also highlight maintenance issues, including a temperamental kerosene stove and warped outhouse doors.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently mention the cabin's spectacular views, abundant wildlife, and unique location. "Paulson Bay cabin was amazing! We went to Alaska to visit my husband's cousins and they suggested the...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Maintenance issues such as a warped outhouse door and unreliable kerosene stove are recurring complaints. "Kerosene stove was temperamental, no lime in the outhouse and the door did not close...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring kerosene for the stove (1-2 gallons/day recommended), pack your own drinking water or filtration system, and pre-arrange logistics with a boat charter. "We brought 2 gallons and that was plenty...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight clear weather and wildlife viewing, while winter reviews emphasize the need for additional heating fuel and preparation for inclement weather.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We stayed for 2 nights at the cabin and had the most perfect weather - sun, blue skies, and calm waters." "Cabin was awesome, only downside is it extremely hard to get a reservation." "Saw 4...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site G06 is mentioned frequently, with users highlighting its views, proximity to wildlife, and small size. "Holds less people and has less flat room than Pigot Bay cabin, but I think I like this one...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mention pets or pet policies.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025