Castle River Cabin
04 reviewsPO BOX 1328, PETERSBURG, AK 99833, USA
Castle River Cabin
$25.00 - $45.00 / 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 rate is $45 during peak season (April 29, 2025 - September 28, 2025) and $25 during non-peak season (September 29, 2025 - December 31, 2025). These fees do not include taxes or reservation service fees.
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness of Castle River Cabin, a hidden sanctuary nestled on remote Kupreanof Island, Alaska. This rustic retreat beckons adventurers seeking authentic solitude, where the only way in is by boat or float plane across pristine waters. Your days here unfold with endless possibilities: cast a line into salmon-rich waters, traverse ancient forest trails, observe majestic wildlife in their natural habitat, or explore hidden coves by kayak. Despite its remote location, the cabin offers welcome comforts including sturdy bunks for restful nights, a crackling wood stove to ward off the chill, and essential facilities that let you focus on the wilderness experience.
Castle River Cabin offers a single cabin accommodation in a remote and rugged location. Primitive camping amenities emphasize self-reliance and preparation.
Historical SignificanceWhile Castle River Cabin may not bear ancient markings or historical plaques, its significance lies in preserving a vanishing way of life – the simple, self-sufficient existence in harmony with Alaska's raw wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Castle River Cabin. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and extended daylight, creating perfect conditions for angling adventures and peaceful paddling expeditions. As autumn approaches, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of colors. Winter brings a completely different magic, blanketing the forest in pristine snow while temperatures plunge, creating a crystalline wonderland for the hardy souls who venture here. Throughout the year, be prepared for Alaska's famously changeable weather – rain showers can sweep in suddenly, and morning frost often greets early risers even in shoulder seasons.
ElevationThe cabin sits at a gentle elevation where river meets sea, offering both forest and tidal experiences without specific elevation markers to define this natural transition zone.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient Sitka spruces and hemlocks tower overhead, their centuries-old branches creating a natural cathedral. The cabin rests at nature's crossroads, where the Castle River surrenders to vast tidal flats that transform with each tide cycle. Surrounding you, a patchwork of emerald forest alternates with mysterious muskeg wetlands, creating diverse habitats that support an incredible array of wildlife. Morning mists often reveal moose grazing in the shallows, while Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows at dusk. Black bears forage along the riverbanks, and the air fills with the calls of migrating waterfowl and the drumming of grouse hidden in the understory.
Geological RegionPositioned at the dramatic confluence where Castle River meets Duncan Canal, the cabin occupies a fascinating geological transition zone on Kupreanof Island's western shore. This expansive tidal flat showcases nature's daily rhythms as waters advance and retreat, revealing mudflats rich with marine life. The surrounding landscape tells the story of millennia – ancient forests standing sentinel over spongy muskeg bogs formed by centuries of accumulated vegetation. This unique positioning offers visitors a front-row seat to observe both marine and terrestrial ecosystems, where the Pacific's influence meets the enduring strength of Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe facility does not provide explicit accessibility features. The 2-mile hike during low tide and remote location make it challenging for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate up to seven people with its sleeping arrangements, including two double bunks and a loft.
Sites PrivacyThe site is moderately private but not entirely secluded. User reviews noted the proximity of a trail used by fishermen, which can lead to occasional disturbances.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPlan arrival during high tide for easier access. Bring firewood, life jackets, and treat water before use. Use the food storage box outside the cabin to protect against wildlife.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite (the cabin itself) is available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- 7consecutive nights during peak season (May 1 - September 30)
- 10 consecutive nights during off-season (October 1 - April 30).
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of 7 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 modified A-frame structure, including two double bunks and a sleeping loft. Features a wood stove, benches, table, and outhouse.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season is April 29 - September 28. Non-peak season is September 29 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made up to the day before arrival for a fee of $10, plus forfeiture of the first night's cabin fee for cancellations less than 14 days in advance. Late cancellations for one-night reservations will forfeit the entire amount paid.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Castle River Cabin offers various recreational activities suited to the remote and wild location on Kupreanof Island. Popular activities include fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking, and boating. Visitors can fish for steelhead trout, trout, and coho salmon during specific seasons. Hunting for moose, deer, bear, and grouse is permitted in designated areas following state or federal regulations. Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of waterfowl, black bears, grouse, and other species. Hiking trails connect to nearby cabins and a boat tie-off area. Boating is possible, but access requires a minimum 16-foot tide, and visitors must bring their own life jackets.
Hiking
The Castle River Trail offers two half-mile hikes upstream to a rowboat and downstream to Castle Flats Cabin. These trails pass through scenic terrain and provide wildlife viewing opportunities.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with steelhead trout available April to May, trout from May to October, and coho salmon mid-August through mid-September. However, user reviews indicate that fishing quality may have declined over the years.Boating
Boating is popular, but a 16-foot tide is required to cross the flats in front of the cabin. A rowboat with oars is available, allowing exploration of nearby waterways. Some visitors bring small outboard motors for convenience.Wildlife viewing
The site is rich in wildlife, including moose, deer, black bears, waterfowl, and grouse. Trails provide opportunities for observing these animals in their natural habitat.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly described in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is supplied only for heating the cabin, not for outdoor campfires. Deadwood from the forest may be collected for outdoor campfires.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include muddy tide flats during low tides, high levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP), and wildlife such as black bears. Visitors must consult tide tables and be prepared for bear safety.
Active alertsHigh levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) have been recorded in the area. The invasive European Green Crab has been observed in southern Southeast Alaska.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
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
Nearest emergency services can be found in Petersburg, accessible by float plane or boat.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 29, 2025 - September 28, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Visitors must pack out all trash and food waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated at the mouth of Castle River, near Duncan Canal. Accessible by tide flats and streams, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include mice in the cabin, foul smells under the cabin, and declining fishing quality. Access challenges due to tides and transportation availability are frequently mentioned.
HostNo campground host information provided.
Campground Map
PO BOX 1328, PETERSBURG, AK 99833, USA
Driving directionsFrom Petersburg, it is 16 miles by float plane or 30 miles by boat. A 16-foot tide is required for direct boat or float plane access to the cabin. At lower tides, there is up to a 2-mile hike across the sometimes muddy tide flat to get to the cabin. Another option for access is to boat or fly to the Castle Flats Cabin (a 15-foot tide is required for float plane, or a 13-foot tide for boat access there) and hike the easy 0.5-mile trek to the cabin.
Accessible only by boat or float plane. Tides impact accessibility, requiring up to a 2-mile hike during low tides across muddy tide flats. This makes access challenging and seasonal.Nearby places
Petersburg (16 miles by float plane or 30 miles by boat), Wrangell (distance unspecified but accessible by boat or float plane).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Petersburg. Visitors must bring their own necessities, including food, water, and gear, as the cabin is extremely remote.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Castle River Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect moderate satisfaction with Castle River Cabin, emphasizing its scenic beauty, wildlife, hiking opportunities, and remote location. However, minor complaints such as mice in the cabin and occasional disturbances by fishermen were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions include the scenic surroundings, the clean and well-maintained cabin, availability of useful items left by prior guests (e.g., coffee filters, toilet paper), and wildlife viewing...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include mice inside the cabin, occasional foul odors, quality of fishing not being as good as in prior years, and disturbances caused by nearby fishermen.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend arriving at high tide to avoid a long hike, using the outdoor food storage box to protect food from wildlife, and bringing life jackets and firewood. Guests also advise leaving...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for fishing, boating, and hiking. User reports indicate that wildlife viewing and clean cabin conditions are consistent throughout the year, with less fishing activity noted...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The cabin was nice with new table and interior paint...although there was a foul smell coming from underneath the cabin." (Michael D, 2022) 2. "Love this cabin...there was however a friendly...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews appear to pertain to the single cabin available at Castle River Cabin, named P11 in the AREA CASTLE RIVER CABIN Loop.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were provided, but the remote location and tide-dependent access may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pets or pet-related experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025