Checats Lake Cabin
00 reviewChecats Lake Cabin
$45.00 - $60.00 / 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 for cabin are $60 per night; non-peak season rates are $45 per night. Additional reservation fees may apply, and discounts are not reflected in listed rates.
About this campground
Deep within the mystical embrace of Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness, Checats Lake Cabin awaits those seeking true solitude. This rustic pan-abode sanctuary, reachable only by the thrilling journey of a float plane landing on pristine waters, offers an intimate 12-by-12 retreat where up to six adventurers can disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with Alaska's raw wilderness any time of year.
Checats Lake Cabin offers cabin-based lodging in a very remote wilderness setting.
Historical SignificanceChecats Lake Cabin stands as a gateway to one of America's most precious natural treasures - the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. This federally protected sanctuary preserves an ecosystem that has remained virtually unchanged for millennia, offering visitors a glimpse into a world where nature still reigns supreme and ecological wonders unfold at every turn.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Checats Lake with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland where the lake becomes a frozen stage for nature's quiet theater. As spring awakens the wilderness, ice gives way to mirror-like waters, while summer brings gentler days perfect for exploration. Throughout the year, be prepared for the region's legendary precipitation and bracing temperatures that remind visitors they've entered one of Earth's last great wildernesses.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details remain nature's secret, the cabin's position offers the perfect vantage point to experience the vertical drama of Southeast Alaska's legendary landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on a scenic knoll overlooking Upper Checats Lake, the cabin commands breathtaking views where ancient forests cascade down to meet crystal waters. Towering cliff faces rise like natural cathedrals while Checats Creek whispers its timeless song through the valley. This is the domain of magnificent wildlife - where black and brown bears fish pristine streams, Sitka black-tailed deer ghost through misty mornings, and sure-footed mountain goats navigate impossible ledges high above.
Geological RegionThe cabin rests in the heart of Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness, where geology tells an epic story written in stone and forest. Dramatic rocky ramparts soar skyward from dense temperate rainforest, while Checats Creek has carved its patient path through this rugged terrain over countless centuries, creating a landscape that captures the very essence of Alaska's untamed majesty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThis cabin is located in a remote wilderness area and does not have specific accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself is 12 feet by 12 feet in dimension.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded and surrounded by heavily forested areas, offering significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring ample supplies including water, food, safety equipment, and bear deterrents. Treat creek water before use.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only option available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 10:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out must be completed by 12:00 PM noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is six people per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin site.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 1 and closes December 31. Reservations are available starting June 20 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations required.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations occurring fewer than 14 days before 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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Checats Lake Cabin provides opportunities for fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and boating in the pristine wilderness of Alaska.
Fishing
Fishing is rated as very good for rainbow trout up to 24 inches (60 cm).Boating
A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for exploring Upper Checats Lake. Guests must bring their own life jackets.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can view black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and mountain goats in the surrounding area.Winter Activities
During fall, winter, and early spring, accessibility to the cabin may be limited due to frozen lake surfaces, affecting recreational activities.Water Sports
Boating with the provided skiff is the primary water-related activity.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood availability is not guaranteed; check with the ranger district office prior to arrival.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear encounters and extreme weather conditions. Frozen lake surfaces may limit accessibility.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.8 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
Contact emergency services through Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District, phone: 907-225-2148.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests are expected to pack out all trash and clean the cabin before departure. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Upper Checats Lake and Checats Creek.
HostContact through Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District at 907-225-2148.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe cabin is located approximately 45 miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland south of Rudyerd Bay. Accessible by float plane only. In fall, winter and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger office prior to making reservation during these periods.
Access is limited to float planes only, and the site is inaccessible during periods of frozen lake surface in fall, winter, and early spring. Helicopter access is illegal due to the wilderness designation.Nearby places
Ketchikan is approximately 45 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Guests must bring their own supplies as there are no nearby supply options. Water is available from a nearby creek but must be treated for safety.
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Last updated August 10, 2025