Anan Bay Cabin
02 reviewsWRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK, 99929, USA
Anan Bay Cabin
$35.00 - $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
Peak season rates (May 1 - September 30): $75/night for nonelectric cabins. Non-peak season rates (October 1 - December 31): $35/night. Additional fees apply for changes ($10/change fee) and cancellations ($10 cancellation fee plus first night's recreation use fee within late cancellation windows).
About this campground
Deep in the heart of Tongass National Forest, Anan Bay Cabin offers an extraordinary gateway to Alaska's untamed wilderness. This remote retreat puts you at nature's doorstep, just moments from the renowned Anan Wildlife Observatory—a world-class destination where massive brown and black bears gather to feast on salmon runs, while bald eagles circle overhead. Your days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into pristine saltwater, explore forest trails that wind through ancient rainforest, or capture breathtaking wildlife photographs. Accessible only by float plane or boat, this off-the-grid sanctuary promises the kind of authentic Alaskan adventure that lives long in memory.
Anan Bay Cabin is primarily built for cabin stays and does not include options for tent camping, group camping, or RV sites.
Historical SignificanceAnan Bay Cabin carries a legacy of wilderness stewardship dating back to its original construction in 1964. Like the resilient forest that surrounds it, the cabin has weathered nature's challenges, rising anew in 2012 and most recently in 2024 following storm damage. The nearby Anan Wildlife Observatory stands as a testament to conservation success, where decades of careful management have created one of North America's premier bear viewing experiences. This special place continues to inspire visitors and researchers alike, offering intimate glimpses into the lives of Alaska's most iconic wildlife.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit for July and August to witness nature's greatest spectacle—peak bear viewing season when salmon runs transform Anan Creek into a wildlife theater. The temperate rainforest climate brings frequent mists and showers that keep the forest lush and green, with summer temperatures hovering comfortably around 45°F during the day and dipping to 30°F at night. Pack your rain gear and embrace the elements—this is Alaska at its most authentic. Winter transforms the landscape into a quieter realm, where cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a pristine wilderness experience for the truly adventurous.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on a gentle forest slope that descends to a pristine beach, the cabin is embraced by towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock, their ancient branches draped with moss and interspersed with aromatic cedar. The rhythm of the tides transforms the nearby lagoon throughout the day—from a shimmering water body at high tide to exposed mudflats that attract foraging wildlife at low tide. This dynamic ecosystem supports an incredible cast of characters: brown and black bears patrol the shoreline, harbor seals surface in the bay, bald eagles perch in towering snags, and gulls wheel overhead in endless aerial ballets.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Tongass National Forest—the largest temperate rainforest in the world—Anan Bay Cabin occupies a spectacular corner of Southeast Alaska's Inside Passage. The landscape tells a story written in ancient Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and scattered cedar that thrive in this maritime climate. Moderate slopes rise from the dynamic intertidal zones of Anan Bay, creating diverse habitats that support the region's legendary biodiversity. This is classic Southeast Alaska terrain, where the forest meets the sea in a tapestry of green and blue that has remained largely unchanged for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned for Anan Bay Cabin.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 16 x 20 feet and includes a loft.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a remote and secluded area, providing significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests should bring #1 stove oil, food, water, and other essential items. Respect wildlife and maintain bear safety protocols.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
6:00 PM
Stay Limit
- 7consecutive nights May 1 - September 30
- 10 consecutive nights October 1 - April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of seven people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin overlooking Anan Bay with a mooring float for vessels up to 36 feet long and 30-inch draft.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee if within 14 days of arrival. No refunds for late cancellations on the check-in date.
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
Visitors to Anan Bay Cabin can enjoy wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, boating, photography, and trips to the Anan Wildlife Observatory. The cabin's location serves as a gateway to pristine wilderness and provides opportunities for observing black and brown bears, bald eagles, and marine mammals.
Hiking
The Anan Creek Trail spans 1 mile and leads to the Anan Wildlife Observatory. Trail visitors can expect bear encounters during July and August, with on-site Forest Service interpreters available for guidance.Fishing
Fishing is permitted from the trailhead shore between June 15 and September 15 due to bear activity. Visitors can fish for steelhead (April-May), cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and pink salmon (July-August), as well as salmon and halibut in saltwater.Boating
Boating is available, with access to a 40-foot mooring float located in the bay. The float accommodates vessels up to 36 feet long and a maximum draft of 30 inches.Wildlife viewing
The area is renowned for its black and brown bear sightings, bald eagles, and marine mammals. During July and August, the high salmon population provides excellent bear-viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are not described for this site.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not detailed but boating is mentioned as an available activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Outdoor fires prohibited due to bear activity.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh bear activity during summer months (July-August). Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) reported in the area. European Green Crab infestation is suspected.
Active alertsBear activity alerts during July and August. PSP and invasive species warnings.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 Wrangell, 27 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food. Trash and recycling facilities are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Anan Bay with access to a seasonal creek. Lagoon dries during low tide.
Common complaintsFrequent rain reported; visitors recommend preparation for wet conditions.
Campground Map
WRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK, 99929, USA
Driving directionsThis cabin is on the mainland at Anan Bay, across Ernest Sound from the southeast corner of Wrangell Island. The site is 27 miles by air from Wrangell, and is accessible by boat and float plane. There is a 30-foot mooring float anchored in the bay for use by the general public as well as cabin users. Please consult local tide reports to determine the best arrival and departure times.
Accessible by boat and float plane; no road access. Visitors must arrange private travel methods.Nearby places
Wrangell, 27 miles by air.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are located in Wrangell, 27 miles away. Visitors are encouraged to bring necessities like food, water, and stove oil ahead of time.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Anan Bay Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Anan Bay Cabin highlight its pristine wilderness setting, abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and essential need for preparation. Guests emphasize the importance of respecting local wildlife and being well-equipped for the remote setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praised the location for its scenic beauty, rich wildlife, and well-maintained cabin facilities. "Very pristine and untouched land; Bear viewing was amazing," noted one reviewer. Visitors also...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mentioned the lack of provided amenities, emphasizing the need to bring essential supplies like stove oil, bedding, and flashlights. Bad weather such as rain is frequent, and guests...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers recommend bringing heating oil for the stove, bear spray, and proper fishing equipment. "Bring a fishing rod and crab pot for some excellent meals," said one guest.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the peak viewing season in July and August offers the richest experiences but comes with higher risks of bear encounters. Visitors in winter months experience fewer crowds but...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"All in all it was a bucket list experience for me," remarked one user. Another guest described it as "One of the most memorable stays in Alaskan wilderness."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite feedback is limited as this campground consists of a single cabin.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Anan Bay Cabin during the peak bear-viewing season (June 15 - September 15).
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025