Softuk Bar Cabin
01 reviewPO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK, 99574, USA
Softuk Bar 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 fee for the Softuk Bar Cabin is $60. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the edge of the world at Softuk Bar Cabin, where the wild Alaskan coastline meets pristine wilderness in the heart of Chugach National Forest. This secluded retreat beckons adventurers seeking solitude alongside miles of untouched sandy beach, where the rhythmic waves of the Gulf of Alaska provide nature's soundtrack. Surrounded by whispering alder groves and towering spruce forests, your days here unfold with endless possibilities: dig for fresh clams at low tide, fill your basket with wild berries in season, discover treasures washed ashore while beachcombing, or simply lose yourself in world-class wildlife watching as eagles soar overhead and waterfowl dance across the waters.
Softuk Bar Cabin offers a single type of accommodation in the form of a rustic cabin, suitable for self-reliant campers. Tent camping, RV camping, group camping, or glamping amenities are not available at this location.
Historical SignificanceStep into Alaska's pioneering past just a short journey from your cabin door. The nearby ghost town of Katalla whispers stories of Alaska's oil rush era, where in 1902 the state's very first oil well pierced the earth, forever changing the territory's destiny. While most artifacts rest on private property, the scenic hike toward this historic townsite rewards curious explorers with glimpses into a bygone era. For the adventurous, Cape Martin beckons beyond – but respect the tides that have ruled this coastline since time immemorial, planning your journey with careful attention to their ancient rhythms.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of Alaska's coastal climate, where each season paints the landscape with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms this wilderness into a snow-globe wonderland, with heavy snowfall creating a pristine white canvas that stretches from forest to frozen shore. As spring awakens the coast, powerful storms leave behind fascinating beachcombing treasures for those willing to explore. Summer and fall bring gentler conditions with moderate temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, though always pack layers – Mother Nature keeps her own schedule here on the edge of the Pacific.
ElevationNestled at sea level where forest meets shore, the cabin offers intimate access to both coastal and woodland environments.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a landscape that captures the very essence of wild Alaska. Your private stretch of sandy beach extends as far as the eye can see, framed by emerald forests of alder and spruce that shelter countless secrets. On crystal-clear days, the horizon erupts with glacier-crowned peaks that seem to float above the sea like distant white sentinels. This living wilderness pulses with activity: majestic moose browse the forest edges, elusive Sitka black-tail deer emerge at dawn and dusk, and both brown and black bears patrol their ancient territories. The sky and shore teem with waterfowl, creating an ever-changing canvas of wildlife that transforms each day into a naturalist's dream.
Geological RegionDiscover where the mighty Chugach National Forest meets the vast Gulf of Alaska in a spectacular collision of ecosystems. This unique coastal refuge showcases nature's contrasts: soft sandy beaches carved by relentless tides give way to dense forests of alder and spruce, while distant glacier-capped peaks stand as monuments to the ice ages that sculpted this remarkable landscape. Here, the geological forces that shaped Alaska continue their eternal work, creating a dynamic environment where land and sea engage in their timeless dance.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible only by wheel plane landing on the beach at low tide, making it unsuitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Sites SizeThe cabin size is 12x14 ft, and it can sleep up to six people on wooden bunkbeds.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, surrounded by alder and spruce forests, offering a high level of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrepare for self-sufficiency, bring all necessary supplies, and adhere to tide schedules for flights.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Flexible
- same-day reservations are allowed.
Check-out
- Flexible
- no specific check-out details provided.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 14 consecutive nights during a visit and up to 7 total nights per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin can accommodate up to six people.
Groups
No group camping facilities are provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are allowed; no mention of first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified once for a $10 fee or canceled prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellation penalties may apply, including forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than 14 days before arrival.
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
Softuk Bar Cabin provides a variety of opportunities for outdoor recreation, though activities are limited by the remote nature of the site. Popular pursuits include beachcombing, bird watching, wildlife viewing, clamming, berry picking, and hunting. Fishing is less common, though a small run of coho salmon occurs in the lagoon behind the cabin. Hunting seasons for deer and bears are extensive, spanning spring, fall, and late summer.
Hiking
There are scenic hiking opportunities near the cabin, including trails to the old townsite of Katalla, located about 4 miles east. Visitors should note that Cape Martin can be difficult to cross at high tide, requiring consultation of local tide tables.Fishing
Fishing is limited at this site but features a small coho salmon run in the lagoon behind the cabin. Razor clamming is another pastime for visitors.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes waterfowl, moose, Sitka black-tail deer, and brown and black bears, making this location ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.Beach activities
The adjacent sandy beach is ideal for beachcombing, particularly in spring, when winter storms wash up Japanese fishing floats and other treasures. Berry picking is also popular in this area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed, though heavy snowfall and freezing conditions may make the site inaccessible during these months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Visitors must bring their own firewood as the cabin lacks electricity and running water.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include bear encounters, paralytic shellfish poisoning, and weather-related risks due to the cabin’s remote location.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.3 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
Cordova hosts the nearest emergency services such as hospitals, police stations, and ranger stations. Visitors need to prepare for self-sufficiency due to the area's remote nature.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season pricing applies January 1 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Campers must pack out all garbage and food waste.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Gulf of Alaska and a lagoon with a small run of coho salmon.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention difficulty landing planes near the cabin due to wet conditions.
Hostnull
Campground Map
PO BOX 280, CORDOVA, AK, 99574, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by wheel plane only at low tide, typically a 25-minute flight from Cordova. Refer to USGS topographic map Cordova A-2 and local tide tables.
The campground is accessible by wheel plane only, requiring careful adherence to tide schedules for landing on the beach. It is located in a remote and wild area.Nearby places
Cordova (45 miles southeast, approximately 25-minute flight).
Nearby supplies
Cordova is the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials
visitors need to bring their supplies to the campground.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Softuk Bar Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are limited but generally praise the site's natural beauty and remote charm. Challenges with weather, access, and self-sufficiency are frequently noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the cabin's rustic feel, the remote and scenic surroundings, and diverse wildlife opportunities. One reviewer noted: "As always, a beautiful spot."
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints center around accessibility issues during wet conditions and the lack of nearby facilities. A user remarked: "This year it was difficult to get the airplane near the cabin."
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all essential supplies, including water, food, firewood, and safety gear. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and limited accessibility during wet conditions.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring is highlighted for beachcombing, while hunting seasons extend across spring, fall, and late summer. Winter conditions, including heavy snow, may limit usability.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"As always, a beautiful spot." "This year it was difficult to get the airplane near the cabin. If things dry out a bit this will change."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Review by JIM W: Campsite C15 in loop AREA SOFTUK BAR CABIN received a 4-star rating, citing difficulties in accessing the cabin during wet conditions.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
The cabin's remote access via wheel plane limits accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews or information regarding pet policies or experiences are available.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025