Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)
01 reviewP.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921, USA
Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)
$25.00 - $30.00 / 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
Cabins are priced at $30 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30, 2025) and $25 per night during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31, 2025). Additional fees for reservation changes or cancellations apply.
About this campground
Perched high in the wilderness of Prince of Wales Island, Black Bear Lake Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan escape. This rustic outpost serves as your gateway to pristine fishing waters, exceptional wildlife encounters, and backcountry hunting opportunities. Here, where cell signals fade and nature's rhythms take over, you'll discover the raw beauty that defines southeastern Alaska's most remote corners.
Black Bear Lake Cabin is a primitive camping facility that offers a remote and minimalistic experience. It supports individual and small group stays.
Historical SignificanceThe rhythms of Black Bear Lake changed forever in 1995 when engineers harnessed its waters for a groundbreaking hydroelectric project. This feat of modern engineering now powers multiple island communities, weaving the lake into the fabric of local life. Though the project reshaped water levels and altered the landscape, Black Bear Lake has evolved into a beloved destination where human ingenuity and wild Alaska coexist in remarkable balance.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Black Bear Lake, where winter's icy grip holds the lake frozen solid from October through mid-June. Summer arrives like a revelation, transforming the landscape into a vibrant playground perfect for outdoor pursuits. While winter months bring dramatic snowfalls and relentless precipitation, summer rewards patient visitors with crystal-clear days ideal for exploration. Pack layers and rain gear—Alaska's weather writes its own rules here.
ElevationAt 1,700 feet above sea level, the cabin occupies a spectacular vantage point where mountain air grows thin and views stretch endlessly. From this lofty perch, Black Bear Lake unfolds below like a sapphire mirror, while surrounding peaks pierce the sky in a dramatic display of Alaska's vertical wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside the cabin door into a world where nature operates on a grand scale. Black Bear Lake stretches before you, its pristine waters reflecting towering peaks that soar to 4,000 feet. Ancient forests of old-growth timber stand sentinel along the shores, while alpine meadows burst with wildflowers during brief but brilliant summers. This is prime habitat for Sitka black-tailed deer, whose delicate tracks crisscross the landscape, and the lake's namesake black bears, who emerge from forest shadows to fish and forage along the shoreline.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of southeastern Alaska's temperate rainforest, Prince of Wales Island reveals its most dramatic secrets at Black Bear Lake. This high-elevation sanctuary showcases the region's signature elements: precipitous terrain carved by ancient glaciers, dense stands of centuries-old forest, and delicate alpine ecosystems that thrive above the treeline. At 1,700 feet elevation, the cold, crystalline lake serves as the centerpiece of a landscape where snow-draped summits and verdant valleys create a stunning tapestry of wilderness that remains largely untouched by the modern world.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin requires a floatplane for access and a 20-yard walk from the lake to the cabin. Due to its remote location and rugged terrain, accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not specified.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12x12 feet and can sleep up to six people.
Sites PrivacyLocated 20 yards from the lake, surrounded by rugged alpine terrain and old-growth forest, the site offers significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring essential items such as food, water, fire starter, cooking utensils, sleeping gear, and personal flotation devices. Treat water from the lake before use.
Best CampsitesThe only campsite available within the campground is the 12x12 Black Bear Lake Cabin, which offers wooden bunkbeds and a wood stove.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is available from 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out must be completed by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 people 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 cabin located 20 yards from Black Bear Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is open for reservations from May 1 to December 31, 2025. Access may be limited when the lake is frozen (October to mid-June).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are available through Recreation.gov, but walk-up availability is not an option due to the remote location.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the scheduled arrival date; a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) will 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
Black Bear Lake Cabin provides unique recreational opportunities like fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, boating, and hunting in the Tongass National Forest.
Hiking
Hiking is encouraged in the surrounding rugged terrain, which includes old-growth forests, alpine vegetation, and scenic mountain views.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Black Bear Lake, which is home to a resident population of rainbow trout.Boating
An aluminum skiff with oars is available for use, but visitors must bring their own personal flotation devices.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including Sitka black-tailed deer and black bears, making it ideal for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
From October to mid-June, the lake may be inaccessible to floatplanes due to a frozen surface, suggesting potential for winter activities like ice fishing or snowshoeing.Water Sports
Boating and kayaking are supported by the lake, providing peaceful settings for recreation.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires within the cabin area are not mentioned; use the wood stove for heating.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include black bears. The terrain is rugged, and poor weather conditions may require extended stays due to safety concerns.
Active alertsNone currently noted, but visitors are warned about seasonal access limitations due to lake freezing.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.3 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
Emergency services are likely based in Ketchikan, approximately 50 air miles away. Visitors should plan for self-sufficiency due to remoteness.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recycling"All garbage and food must be packed out," indicating that there are no trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water features20 yards from Black Bear Lake, a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.
Common complaintsSteep terrain was noted in user reviews.
HostFacility does not have onsite hosts. Contact details for management are provided.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921, USA
Driving directionsAccess to Bear Lake Cabin is by floatplane only, 50 air miles from Ketchikan. Visitors must walk 20 yards from the lake to the cabin. Refer to USGS map Craig C-3.
Travel is only possible via floatplane. The lake may freeze from October to mid-June, potentially limiting access during this period. Visitors must arrange their own transportation and safety.Nearby places
Ketchikan (50 air miles, approximately 1-hour floatplane travel time)
Nearby supplies
Craig, AK is the nearest town for supplies, but visitors should bring essential items including food, water, Bio brick compressed logs, and personal flotation devices.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The cabin is appreciated for its serene and remote setting, but its steep terrain can be challenging.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
"Very steep terrain but enjoyed our stay. Would go again." The remote location and scenic surroundings are highly praised.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The lack of amenities such as running water and electricity may deter some visitors.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should prepare for the steep terrain and bring all necessary supplies, including treated water and personal floatation devices.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
From mid-June to September, the lake is ice-free, making it accessible to floatplanes and ideal for summer activities.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Very steep terrain but enjoyed our stay. Would go again."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews tend to focus on the overall cabin experience rather than specific sites.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility are available.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No pet-related reviews are available.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025