Big Shaheen Cabin

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ADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT, JUNEAU, AK, USA
Big Shaheen 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

Facility rates for the cabin vary by season: $55 per night during peak season (May 1 to September 30) and $45 per night during non-peak season (October 1 to December 31).
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907-586-8800

About this campground

Escape to the heart of Alaska's wilderness at Big Shaheen Cabin, where ancient Tongass rainforest meets pristine waters on remote Admiralty Island. This secluded retreat invites adventurers to cast lines into crystalline waters, paddle silent canoe routes, explore moss-draped trails, and witness brown bears, eagles, and whales in their natural habitat.
Big Shaheen Cabin is a primitive, non-electric wilderness cabin aimed at guests seeking a remote natural experience. It does not accommodate RVs or tents.
Historical SignificanceAdmiralty Island carries centuries of stories within its ancient forests. The Tlingit people have called this land home for generations, with the traditional village of Angoon standing as the island's sole permanent community—a living testament to the enduring connection between people and this remarkable landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, the Alaskan summer transforms this wilderness into an outdoor paradise with comfortable temperatures and shimmering, ice-free waters perfect for paddling and fishing. As autumn fades, the lake freezes into a crystalline wonderland, making winter and early spring access challenging but rewarding for those seeking true solitude.
ElevationPerched 300 feet above sea level, the cabin commands breathtaking vistas where emerald forests cascade down to meet sapphire lake waters, offering photographers and nature lovers an ever-changing canvas of light, shadow, and wilderness beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a cathedral canopy of centuries-old spruce and hemlock, Big Shaheen Cabin gazes out over the mirror-like surface of Hasselborg Lake. This corner of the Kootznoowoo Wilderness weaves together glacier-carved valleys, mysterious muskeg meadows dotted with carnivorous plants, and dramatic peaks that pierce the sky at over 3,000 feet.
Geological RegionDeep within the Kootznoowoo Wilderness—known as 'Fortress of the Bears'—on Admiralty Island, this remarkable landscape showcases the raw power of nature. Ancient glaciers carved dramatic valleys now filled with pristine lakes and rushing streams, while towering peaks draped in old-growth spruce and hemlock create a vertical world rising from sea level to alpine heights above 3,000 feet.

Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned for the cabin.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 8 people. Site size is sufficient for group stays.
Sites PrivacyCabin is in a remote wilderness setting, providing high levels of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors are advised to bring 10-20 gallons of No.1 stove oil per week, along with life jackets, water purification methods, and adequate food supplies.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only campsite.

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
You may stay up to 10 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to eight people 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 with two bedrooms and a living/kitchen area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to December 31. Accessible only during ice-free periods from mid-May to November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are available for this facility.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservation dates incur a $10 fee after the first change. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit 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

Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

Big Shaheen Cabin offers a variety of outdoor activities including fishing, hiking, canoeing, and wildlife viewing. The area is particularly suited for nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude in a pristine environment.
Hiking
Several primitive trails extend from the cabin into the forest, including access to Little Shaheen Cabin via a 100-yard trail. Additional trails lead to Lake Guerin, Beaver Lake, Lake McKinney, and Hasselborg River. These trails are part of the Admiralty Island Canoe Route.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities include cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon. A small fishing boat with oars is provided, but guests need to bring their own life jackets. A small 10-horsepower outboard motor can also be brought for use.
Boating
Boating is available on Hasselborg Lake, which is part of the Admiralty Island Canoe Route. Visitors can use a provided small fishing boat with oars, and may bring equipment like outboard motors.
Wildlife viewing
The area is known for Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and brown bears. Dense forests and scenic landscapes enhance the wildlife viewing experience.
Winter Activities
Limited as the cabin may be inaccessible in winter due to frozen lake surfaces. Floatplanes cannot land during these months.
Water Sports
Canoeing on Hasselborg Lake is a highlight and part of the Admiralty Island Canoe Route.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • No specific fire policies provided, but visitors are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent tree-killing pests.

Hazards

General hazardsBrown bears frequent the area; visitors must follow bear safety protocols. Remote wilderness conditions can lead to delays due to poor weather.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.

Weather forecast

64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 70%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 3 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast
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Emergency Services

Closest emergency services are in Juneau, approximately 45 minutes away by float plane.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingAll garbage and food must be packed out as there are no trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly by Hasselborg Lake. Guests can use the provided fishing boat with oars.
Common complaintsNo complaints mentioned in sources.
HostNo on-site campground host; management inquiries can be directed to Admiralty Island National Monument.

Campground Map

ADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT, JUNEAU, AK, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by float plane or canoe with portage. It is about a 45-minute flight from Juneau. By canoe and portage, it is about 10 miles from Mole Harbor. Access by helicopter is prohibited due to its location in a designated Wilderness area. In the fall, winter, and early spring, float planes may not land due to frozen lake surfaces. The lake is typically ice-free from mid-May through November.
Access is highly remote and limited to float plane or canoe with portage. Seasonal restrictions include ice-covered lake surfaces during fall, winter, and early spring, rendering access inaccessible for float planes.
Nearby places
Juneau - approximately 45 minutes by float plane
Nearby supplies
All supplies must be brought by visitors
no nearby provisions available. Visitors must pack in food, water, stove oil, and other essentials.

Camper Reviews

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Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Big Shaheen Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
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Review Summaries

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Common Concerns

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Pro Tips & Recommendations

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Seasonal Insights

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Site-Specific Reviews

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Accessibility Features

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Pet-Friendly Features

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Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Tongass National Forest
Big Shaheen Cabin