Admiralty Cove Cabin
4.788 reviewsADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT
Admiralty Cove Cabin
$45.00 - $55.00 / 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
Peak season rates from May 1 to September 30 are $55 per night for the cabin. Non-peak season rates from October 1 to December 31 are $45 per night. Additional fees, such as a $10 reservation change fee and $10 cancellation fee, may apply.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness of Admiralty Cove Cabin, where adventure awaits at every turn. This secluded retreat invites you to cast your line in pristine waters, explore ancient forest trails, and witness Alaska's incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. While the cabin provides a cozy shelter with basic amenities, you'll need to pack your essentials for a true backcountry experience that promises memories to last a lifetime.
Admiralty Cove Cabin is a primitive wilderness lodging option designed for visitors seeking a remote and self-reliant camping experience.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Admiralty Cove places you in the heart of the magnificent Admiralty Island National Monument, a protected Wilderness area that stands as a testament to conservation efforts in the Tongass National Forest. This pristine landscape preserves one of the most remarkable temperate rainforest ecosystems on Earth, offering visitors a chance to experience Alaska as it has existed for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit perfectly to make the most of Admiralty Cove's seasonal treasures. Spring transforms the beaches into a beachcomber's paradise, where winter storms have deposited fascinating driftwood and marine treasures along the shore. The warm months of summer through early fall create ideal conditions for anglers, hunters, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Be prepared for the region's characteristic rain showers that can transform trails into muddy adventures – waterproof gear is your best friend here.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on a peaceful forested terrace, the cabin overlooks the meandering Admiralty Creek and a sweeping tidal meadow that transforms with the rhythms of the sea. Towering spruce and hemlock create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while crystal-clear glacier-fed streams carve their way through the landscape. Mysterious muskeg clearings dot the terrain, and dramatic rocky spires crown the island's mountainous backbone. This diverse habitat hosts an incredible cast of wildlife – from majestic Sitka black-tailed deer grazing in meadows to soaring bald eagles, playful harbor seals, boisterous Steller sea lions, breaching humpback whales, and the awe-inspiring brown bears that rule this wild domain.
Geological RegionAdmiralty Cove sits within the vast Tongass National Forest on remote Admiralty Island, where nature has sculpted a masterpiece of ecological diversity. Ancient spruce and hemlock forests blanket the landscape, punctuated by sparkling glacier-fed streams and serene alpine lakes. Spongy muskeg clearings create natural meadows, while jagged rocky spires pierce the skyline along the island's mountainous spine, creating a dramatic backdrop for your wilderness adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is located in a remote wilderness area and accessible only by floatplane or boat. Visitors should prepare for uneven and potentially muddy trails, as one reviewer noted, "The trail to N. Young Lake was up-to-your-knees muddy." Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six individuals, with bunk-style sleeping arrangements.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a secluded setting in the wilderness, providing significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAnchor boats west of the little island in Admiralty Cove to avoid tide flats. Hip waders may be necessary to cross Admiralty Creek.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 10 nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests can stay in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle primitive log cabin.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required; walk-up availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations are allowed once, with a $10 change fee. If additional changes are needed, customers must cancel and re-book. Cancellation fees include a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations within 14 days prior to 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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Admiralty Cove Cabin offers a range of activities including hiking, fishing, boating, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing. Guests have described the experience as peaceful and adventurous, highlighting opportunities for both relaxation and outdoor exploration.
Hiking
Several primitive trails start from the cabin, including the 4.5-mile Admiralty Cove-Young Lake trail, which connects to the North Young Lake cabin. This trail is relatively flat but can be challenging in wet weather, as one reviewer noted it was "up-to-your-knees muddy."Fishing
Fishing opportunities include cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and coho salmon in the stream adjacent to the cabin and at nearby Young Bay. A user review detailed, "Salmon were running, bears were active, weather was awesome!"Boating
The cabin is accessible by floatplane or boat, and kayaking is popular in the area. One reviewer shared, "We kayaked over from Juneau—it's a short trail hike from the beach." Anchorage is limited by tides, and visitors must plan accordingly.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, including Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, harbor seals, Steller sea lions, and brown bears. One reviewer noted, "We saw plenty of bear and deer sign, and one deer."Beach activities
Beachcombing is a popular activity, especially in spring, when winter storms wash up Japanese fishing floats, shells, and other treasures. Visitors also appreciate the scenic beauty of the beach.Winter Activities
Hunting, including deer, ducks, and bears, is a notable activity in winter. Reviewers frequently mention hunting trips during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking is a popular activity, as noted in user reviews. Specific details about other water sports are not provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- A campfire ring is located outside the cabin.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown bears are abundant; visitors should exercise caution and follow bear safety guidelines. Tides can restrict access for boats and floatplanes.
Active alertsThe invasive European Green Crab has been found in southern Southeast Alaska and suspected near Tongass National Forest.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 80%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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 Admiralty Island National Monument at 907-586-8800 for emergencies. Juneau, 20 miles away by boat, offers hospitals and emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 through September 30 is the peak season.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all garbage and food waste, as stated in the official guidelines.
Proximity to water featuresApproximately a quarter-mile from a saltwater beach in Admiralty Cove.
Common complaintsSome visitors noted muddy trail conditions to North Young Lake during rainy weather.
Campground Map
ADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT
Driving directionsAccess to Admiralty Cove Cabin is by floatplane or boat with anchor. Admiralty Cove is a small, open cove within Young Bay, on the north end of Admiralty Island. Upon arrival, look for a large pruned opening in the beach fringe visible from the water while approaching the east side of the little island in Admiralty Cove. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. One-way flight time from Juneau is 15 minutes, and by boat it is 20 miles. Tides affect access to the cabin. Cabin users need to be aware of the large tide flat in Admiralty Cove. Much of the cove will go dry as the tide recedes, therefore boat and float plane access is effectively restricted to a 15-foot or higher incoming tide. Better anchorage exists to the west of the little island in Admiralty Cove.
As the cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, road access is not an option. Visitors must use a floatplane or boat to reach the site. The cove has a large tide flat, restricting access during low tide conditions.Nearby places
Juneau is the nearest city, located approximately 20 miles away (accessible by boat or 15 minutes by floatplane).
Nearby supplies
Visitors must bring all essential supplies, including water, food, stove oil, and gear. Supplies are not available near the cabin
Juneau is the closest city for provisions.
Camper Reviews
4.8
8 reviews
Admiralty Cove Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the cabin's remote, serene setting and its suitability for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Many reviewers appreciated the peacefulness and the opportunity for adventure, though some highlighted the challenges of weather and accessibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the cabin's scenic location, excellent fishing opportunities, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer stated, "It is a peaceful area with incredible scenery,"...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers noted difficulties related to weather and tide-dependent access. A reviewer mentioned, "The trail to North Young Lake was up-to-your-knees muddy," while another highlighted the need...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing adequate supplies (like hip waders for tide crossings), planning for muddy trails, and timing visits to align with favorable tides. One reviewer advised, "Any tide...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer and fall are the most popular seasons for visiting, with activities like hunting and fishing being common in fall. Winter visitors appreciate the seclusion but note the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Salmon were running, bears were active, weather was awesome!" "We saw plenty of bear and deer sign, and one deer." "We kayaked over from Juneau—it's a short trail hike from the beach."
Based on 8 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Most reviews are focused on the overall experience rather than specific sites, as the cabin itself is the sole accommodation.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is not explicitly reviewed, though the remote location and rugged terrain are noted as challenges. One reviewer mentioned, "Be prepared to do a lot of hiking!"
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no specific reviews addressing pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025