Kenai Fjords National Park Cabins
4.408 reviewsPO Box 1727, Seward, AK, 99664, USA
Kenai Fjords National Park Cabins
$75.00 - $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
The nightly fee for cabin use is $75 during peak season from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. Kenai Fjords National Park does not add a reservation fee.
About this campground
Escape to the edge of the world at Kenai Fjords National Park's two remarkable backcountry cabins. Holgate Cabin and Aialik Bay Cabin serve as your gateway to Alaska's untamed coastal wilderness, where massive tidewater glaciers meet the sea and wildlife roams freely. These rustic retreats offer front-row seats to nature's grand theater, with days filled with kayaking through pristine waters, hiking ancient trails, and casting lines into salmon-rich streams. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the rhythm of tides and the occasional thunderous crack of calving ice.
The cabins cater to backcountry and rustic camping experiences. They are suited for visitors seeking a secluded and natural environment.
Historical SignificanceThese cabins stand as gateways between worlds—where human history meets geological time. Aialik Bay Cabin rests on lands graciously leased from the Port Graham Corporation, honoring the deep Indigenous connections to this spectacular coastline. Meanwhile, Holgate Cabin serves as a humble outpost within Kenai Fjords National Park, a protected realm where the forces that shaped our planet continue their ancient work, carving fjords and nurturing one of North America's most dynamic ecosystems.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms these remote outposts into accessible sanctuaries, welcoming adventurers from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend. Alaska's coastal climate keeps you on your toes with refreshing rain showers that paint the landscape in vibrant greens and create spectacular waterfalls cascading down fjord walls. Come prepared for July and August's buzzing residents—mosquitoes thrive in the lush environment, making nets essential companions for peaceful evenings spent watching the endless twilight.
ElevationPerched just above the high tide line where land meets sea, both cabins offer an intimate connection with the ocean's rhythms while keeping your feet dry and your views spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your cabin door into a wild garden where alder trees create natural windbreaks and blueberry and salmonberry bushes promise sweet summer treats. At Holgate Cabin, towering spruce trees frame jaw-dropping views of Holgate Glacier's blue-white face, while the open forest invites exploration. Aialik Bay Cabin charms with its own personality—young spruce forests whisper coastal secrets, dense alder thickets shelter wildlife, and an expansive cobble beach stretches endlessly, perfect for beachcombing treasures delivered by each tide.
Geological RegionWelcome to Alaska's fjordlands, where ice age sculptors left their masterwork for modern adventurers to explore. This coastal backcountry showcases nature's raw power through dramatic fjords carved by ancient glaciers, active tidewater glaciers that still thunder and groan as they meet the sea, and a tapestry of ecosystems from windswept cobble beaches to protective spruce forests and tangled alder thickets that mark the land's slow recovery from ice.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned. Due to the remote nature of the cabins, accessibility may be limited.
Sites SizeThe cabins are approximately 16' x 20' (5m x 6m), providing ample space for six occupants.
Sites PrivacyThe cabins are located in secluded backcountry environments, offering significant privacy and a quiet setting surrounded by nature.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesHolgate Cabin is recommended for glacier views and proximity to Pedersen Lagoon. Aialik Bay Cabin is ideal for flat terrain and views of tidewater glaciers.
Best CampsitesBoth cabins—Holgate and Aialik Bay—are highly rated for their locations and views. Holgate Cabin has spectacular glacier views, while Aialik Bay Cabin offers proximity to Pedersen Glacier.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Noon
Check-out
Noon
Stay Limit
Reservations are limited to three nights per group per cabin within the calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six guests allowed per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability as cabins are reservable in advance only.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations prior to 14 calendar days before check-in are eligible for a refund minus a $10 fee and the first night's use fee. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's use fee along with a $10 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
Activities you can enjoy
Kenai Fjords National Park Cabins offer a range of outdoor recreational opportunities in a pristine wilderness environment. "Both cabins are ideal locations for kayaking, boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It is possible to see black bears, seabirds, sea otters, mountain goats, and other marine mammals." Berry picking is also popular in the spruce forests surrounding the cabins.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available around the cabins, with trails leading through spruce forests, alder thickets, and cobble beaches. Specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the area, and visitors are advised to refer to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for regulations and licensing requirements. "Fishing and wildlife viewing are popular activities from the cabins."Boating
Boating, including kayaking, is a popular activity. Visitors can explore nearby natural attractions, such as Pedersen Lagoon, Quicksand Cove, and glaciers, by kayak or boat.Wildlife viewing
The cabins are excellent for wildlife viewing. Sightings of black bears, mountain goats, sea otters, seabirds, and other marine mammals are common. "One visitor shared that three killer whales approached and swam under their kayaks."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable as the cabins are only open from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are highly recommended in the area, with various glacial and lagoon destinations accessible by water.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are only allowed on the beach below the high tide line.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh black bear activity in the area requires strict food storage rules. Fresh water accessibility can be limited, and mosquito nets are recommended during peak season.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.9 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
Closest emergency services are located in Seward, AK, approximately two hours away by boat or 30 minutes by float plane.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash, remaining food, and used toilet kits. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresBoth cabins are near fjords and tidewater glaciers. Holgate Cabin overlooks Holgate Glacier, while Aialik Bay Cabin is across from Aialik Glacier.
Common complaintsSome guests noted limited fresh water access and the need for heater repairs. Bear activity also drew user attention.
Campground Map
PO Box 1727, Seward, AK, 99664, USA
Driving directionsThe cabins are accessible only by float plane or boat. Holgate Cabin: 59° 50' 01.61" N 149° 46' 10.25" W. Aialik Bay Cabin: 59° 53' 12.63" N 149° 39' 22.41" W.
The cabins are not accessible by road. They can only be reached by a two-hour boat ride or 30-minute float plane flight from Seward.Nearby places
Seward is the closest city, located approximately two hours away by boat or 30 minutes by float plane.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including food and equipment, can be found in Seward, AK. Water taxis from Seward provide access to the cabins.
Camper Reviews
4.4
8 reviews
Kenai Fjords National Park Cabins is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabins' stunning natural beauty, seclusion, and suitability for activities like kayaking and wildlife viewing. The cabins are highly appreciated for their rustic charm and well-maintained condition, though some issues like heater malfunctions and limited fresh water access have been reported.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciated the "quiet beach for kayak launching," "great location for paddling," and "spectacular views of Holgate Glacier." Multiple users praised the cabins as "well cared for" and...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the "heater in the Holgate Cabin stopped working" and the limited access to fresh water, which was described as "available but needs treatment." Additionally, some reviewers...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra drinking water, as fresh water access can be challenging, and carrying mosquito nets in July and August. A marine radio or satellite phone is strongly advised due to...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer season is highlighted as the best time for visiting due to the cabins' operational window (Memorial Day to Labor Day). July and August are particularly suitable for berry picking, although...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Roomy cabin with heat for drying wet gear in the rainforest/glacier environment. Nice luxury!"
"One of the highlights of our Alaska trip. A truly amazing place!"
"The cabin was very clean, an...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Holgate Cabin is frequently praised for its "spectacular views of Holgate Glacier" and "quiet beach for kayak launching," while Aialik Bay Cabin is noted for "limited but available fresh water access...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not explicitly mentioned in user reviews, but the remote location and lack of roads may limit access for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in the coastal backcountry or inside public cabins, with exceptions made for service dogs. User reviews did not provide additional comments on pets.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025