Control Lake Cabin
03 reviews,,,
Control Lake Cabin
$35.00 - $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
Cabin rates vary by season: $55 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30) and $35 per night during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31). Booking fees include non-refundable reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 through contact center, and $3 in-person). Additional fees apply for cancellations ($10) and changes ($10 per site).
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness of Prince of Wales Island at Control Lake Cabin, where adventure begins with your journey. This 1969-built sanctuary requires a scenic 20-minute paddle across pristine waters or a thrilling float plane arrival, making every visit an expedition in itself. Here, the symphony of nature plays constantly—from the haunting calls of eagles soaring overhead to the splash of otters at play. Days unfold with world-class fishing, backcountry hunting, wilderness hiking, and peaceful boating, while evenings bring the crackle of your wood stove and stories shared under star-filled skies. With cozy bunkbeds, a warming wood stove, and an authentic outhouse, this rustic retreat strips away modern distractions, leaving only you and Alaska's raw beauty.
Control Lake Cabin represents a singular camping accommodation that caters to cabin-based stays in a remote and rustic setting.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Tongass National Forest history at this 1969 cabin, which once buzzed with activity as a Ranger District office. These weathered walls have sheltered forest guardians who mapped trails, monitored wildlife, and protected this pristine wilderness for future generations. Today, the cabin stands as a testament to Alaska's conservation legacy, inviting modern adventurers to experience the same rugged lifestyle that shaped the region's forestry heritage.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Control Lake, where weather writes its own schedule and transforms the landscape with each passing season. Winter's icy grip freezes the lake solid, grounding float planes and creating a crystalline wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid adventurers. Storm systems sweep through without warning, turning calm waters choppy and clear skies gray—wise visitors pack extra provisions, knowing that Alaska's moods can extend their wilderness sojourn from days into an unforgettable week. Each season paints the landscape anew, from spring's explosive greenery to autumn's golden tapestry.
ElevationNestled at lake level in southeastern Alaska's temperate rainforest zone.
Natural Features and SceneryControl Lake Cabin emerges from a meadow-like clearing where wild grasses dance in the breeze, creating an unexpected oasis amid the surrounding wilderness. Sparse lodgepole pines stand sentinel, their twisted forms telling tales of coastal storms, while mysterious muskeg bogs stretch westward like nature's own carpet. This diverse ecosystem attracts an impressive cast of wildlife characters—majestic Sitka black-tailed deer graze in dawn's first light, black bears lumber through berry patches, bald eagles survey their domain from towering perches, and playful river otters, sleek marten, and elusive mink weave through the waterways, creating endless opportunities for wildlife watching.
Geological RegionSet within the island archipelago of southeastern Alaska, Control Lake occupies a unique pocket of Prince of Wales Island where ancient geological forces created a fascinating tapestry of ecosystems. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in muskeg bogs and pine groves—remnants of ice age glaciers that sculpted these lands thousands of years ago. This distinctive terrain, where grassy clearings meet spongy muskeg and sparse lodgepole pines stretch toward the western horizon, creates a hauntingly beautiful wilderness unlike anywhere else in the Tongass.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe facility does not explicitly mention standard accessibility features. Access to the cabin includes a 20-minute boat paddle or float plane, making it challenging for guests with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six guests, but specific measurements of the cabin space are not provided.
Sites PrivacySites offer significant privacy due to the remote location and single cabin setup.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a kicker (motor) for the boat to improve transport efficiency. Guests must bring personal flotation devices and all necessary supplies for remote camping.
Best CampsitesOnly one cabin is available at this location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests.
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; no loops or sections.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are available; walk-up availability details are missing.
Cancellation PolicyYou can cancel anytime before scheduled arrival, but fees apply: $10 cancellation fee and potential forfeiture of one night's recreation fee for late cancellations. Late cancellations for cabins apply starting 14 calendar days before check-in.
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
Control Lake Cabin offers diverse recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. Guests can also explore nearby attractions such as Thorne River.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available both around Control Lake and at nearby attractions like Thorne River, which is 18 miles away. Specific trail difficulty and length are not detailed.Fishing
The lake supports healthy populations of cutthroat trout, dolly varden, and sockeye salmon. Fishing is a popular activity here, with user reviews specifically praising the scenic setting.Boating
An aluminum skiff with oars is provided at the cabin. Guests must bring their own life jackets and can use a long shaft motor (not provided). User reviews note issues with the skiff's oars, describing it as 'slow and torturous.'Wildlife viewing
Rich wildlife includes waterfowl, eagles, marten, mink, otter, Sitka black-tailed deer, and black bears. User reviews highlight the abundance of wildlife and the remote setting.Winter Activities
Winter activities may be limited by accessibility issues due to snow and ice. Float planes cannot land on frozen lake surfaces.Water Sports
Boating and fishing are primary water-based activities on Control Lake, but no mention of other sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted; guests must follow local firewood policies to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears and other wildlife frequent the area; bear safety practices are advised. Remote location requires preparation for weather-related delays and extended stays.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided; guests should contact Thorne Bay Ranger District for updates.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.1 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 the Thorne Bay Ranger District at 907-828-3304 for safety precautions. Emergency services details are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests are responsible for packing out all garbage and waste. Recycling facilities are not mentioned, and trash removal must be done by visitors.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Control Lake's shore.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention issues with amenities such as broken oars on the skiff, lack of cleanliness in the cabin, and poor maintenance of the outhouse.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom State Highway 929, Control Lake Cabin is located 41 road miles from Hollis, 20 road miles from Craig and 15 miles from Thorne Bay. From Highway 929, access to the cabin is about a 20-minute boat paddle away. An aluminum skiff with oars is provided by the Forest Service. The boat can use a long shaft motor, though it is not provided. Please pull the skiff up on the dock and pull the plug. The cabin is also accessible by float plane; although in fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible as float planes cannot land on the frozen lake surface.
The site is remote and requires either paddling by boat or arriving by float plane. Access is contingent on weather conditions, and float planes cannot land if the lake surface is frozen in fall, winter, or early spring.Nearby places
Hollis: 41 miles
Craig: 20 miles
Thorne Bay: 15 miles.
Nearby supplies
No explicit details on grocery or camping supply locations provided
visitors are advised to bring adequate supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Control Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews offer a mixed perspective on Control Lake Cabin. Positive feedback mentions the spacious and authentic Alaskan experience, while criticisms focus on maintenance issues and the quality of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the Alaskan setting and ample deer hunting opportunities. One user notes, 'Cabin was great. Very Alaskan and provided a genuine deer hunting experience.' Another highlights the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the poor condition of the skiff's oars, unclean cabin, damaged stove pipe, and a malfunctioning outhouse. One user recounts, 'The row boat is awful...the outhouse was appalling.'...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing a kicker for the skiff to improve navigation, extra cleaning supplies due to the cabin's condition, and ample outdoor gear for unpredictable weather.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that seasonal accessibility varies widely. Float planes cannot access the cabin during winter due to frozen lake surfaces, and snow/ice can complicate travel. Summer is the most...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Fun trails & spacious cabin.' 'The front door doesn't close...the outhouse was appalling.' 'Cabin was great. Very Alaskan and provided a genuine deer hunting experience.'
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Campsite T02 in Loop AREA CONTROL LAKE CABIN received a 5-star rating from one user who appreciated the deer hunting opportunities and hiking access.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility for guests with disabilities, but the rugged terrain and remote access suggest limited accommodations.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
User reviews do not address pet policies or experiences, suggesting pets may not be a focus at this site.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025