Garnet Ledge Cabin
04 reviewsGarnet Ledge Cabin
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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 are $35 per night for cabin use year-round; there are no discounts for Golden Age and Golden Access Passports.
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Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Escape to the untamed wilderness at Garnet Ledge Cabin, where adventurous paddlers and boaters discover a hidden gem along the mighty Stikine River delta. This charming 16-by-16 A-frame sanctuary, crafted by hand in 1964, stands as a testament to Alaska's rugged spirit. Surrounded by sprawling tidal flats and enveloped in ancient spruce-hemlock rainforest, this rustic retreat offers an authentic wilderness experience that connects you directly with nature's raw beauty.
Garnet Ledge Cabin offers rustic cabin accommodations with minimal facilities, catering to those who enjoy primitive and secluded camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceGarnet Ledge holds a special place in Wrangell's heart, where a unique bedrock outcropping sparkles with semi-precious garnets. In a beautiful tradition of community stewardship, the First Presbyterian Church holds this geological treasure in trust exclusively for the children of Wrangell. Visitors interested in experiencing this local custom of garnet collecting can reach out to the church to learn more about this cherished tradition that has connected generations to the land.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of Southeast Alaska at Garnet Ledge. Spring arrives with April's spectacular hooligan run, when thousands of bald eagles descend upon the delta in a breathtaking display of nature's abundance. Summer brings gentle rains that nourish the lush rainforest, creating perfect conditions for wildlife watching and exploration. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, where heavy snowfall and crystalline frost create magical scenery—though visitors should prepare for freezing temperatures and challenging conditions.
ElevationNestled at sea level where the forest meets the tide, Garnet Ledge Cabin offers easy access to both marine and terrestrial adventures. This prime location along the Stikine River delta places you at the intersection of mountain and sea, where tidal rhythms and river currents shape daily life.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient rainforest meets dynamic river delta. From the cabin's doorstep, watch the ever-changing tapestry of tidal flats stretch toward steep mountain walls that rise dramatically from the water's edge. Towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock create a emerald canopy overhead, while the delta below teems with life—from majestic bald eagles soaring overhead to curious harbor seals patrolling the channels and moose browsing along the forest edge. This is nature's theater at its finest.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Tongass National Forest—the world's largest intact temperate rainforest—Garnet Ledge Cabin perches at a remarkable convergence of ecosystems. Here, the powerful Stikine River spreads into a vast delta system, creating a mosaic of channels, mudflats, and wetlands. Moderately steep mountains frame this watery wilderness, their slopes cloaked in ancient Sitka spruce and western hemlock that have stood sentinel for centuries. This is a landscape shaped by ice, water, and time, where geological forces continue their endless dance.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information regarding accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 16-by-16 feet, offering space for up to seven occupants.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a remote and secluded wilderness area, offering significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors are advised to check tide charts carefully for access and bring necessary supplies to ensure safety and comfort.
Best CampsitesGarnet Ledge Cabin is the only site available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- Maximum 7 consecutive nights between May 1 and September 30
- 10 consecutive nights from October 1 to April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 7 people.
Groups
No information on group camping is provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout; no loops or additional sites.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 1 to September 30 (peak season); October 1 to April 30 (non-peak season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov up to 180 days in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations only; walk-ups are not available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations more than 14 days before arrival are subject to a $10 fee, plus forfeiture of the first night’s fees for late cancellations within 14 days of arrival.
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
Food storage lockers
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Garnet Ledge Cabin offers a variety of recreational activities, particularly catering to nature enthusiasts and paddlers. Popular pastimes include wildlife viewing, hiking to nearby attractions like Garnet Ledge, fishing, and boating. The area is rich in biodiversity and offers unique opportunities for exploring the Stikine River Delta.
Hiking
An unmaintained trail along the beach leads from the cabin to Garnet Ledge, offering scenic views and access to the garnet bedrock. Campers should be aware that the trail is not well-maintained following blowdown in 2005.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include hooligan angling in the Stikine River during April. The river delta is a popular spot for anglers.Boating
The cabin serves as a basecamp for paddlers exploring the Stikine River and Delta. Access requires a tide level of at least 15 feet for shallow draft boats or 18 feet for float planes.Wildlife viewing
The region features diverse wildlife, including brown and black bears, bald eagles, sea lions, harbor seals, gulls, and moose. Alaska's second-largest concentration of bald eagles occurs during April's hooligan run.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can learn about the garnets sourced from Garnet Ledge, held in trust for the children of Wrangell by the First Presbyterian Church. Collecting garnets requires permission from the church.Winter Activities
No winter activities such as skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing along the Stikine River Delta are popular activities for paddlers.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Visitors should bring their own firewood. A wood stove is available, but firewood is not guaranteed.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown and black bears are common. Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning has been reported in the area.
Active alertsVisitors should be aware of invasive European Green Crab sightings and high PSP levels in the area.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Wrangell provides access to emergency services; further details null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash and food to maintain the pristine environment. No recycling or trash disposal facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresOverlooks tidal flats and Stikine River delta; stream behind the cabin provides untreated water.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mentioned trash left behind by previous visitors and strong kerosene smells due to improperly closed heater valves.
HostNo host services available on-site.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThis cabin is located on the mainland at the mouth of the Stikine River, south of Point Rothsay, and near the Garnet Ledge. It is 8 miles from Wrangell, and requires a 15-foot tide for shallow draft boat access or an 18-foot tide for float planes.
Boats require a tide of at least 15 feet; float planes require a tide of at least 18 feet. Access is dependent on tide conditions.Nearby places
Wrangell (8 miles)
Nearby supplies
Wrangell provides supplies including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials. Exact locations and distances null.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Garnet Ledge Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally describe the cabin as a useful shelter amidst inclement weather, highlighting its practicality for paddlers. They also note occasional issues like leftover trash from previous visitors and the logistical challenges of accessing the site due to tides.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the cabin's location as a basecamp for paddlers and its utility during adverse weather conditions. The bear-proof food storage locker and stocked firewood (when available) are...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include trash left by previous visitors, the kerosene spill causing an unpleasant odor, and logistical difficulties related to low tide levels for boat access.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing cleaning supplies, sufficient firewood, water, and bedding. They also suggest planning visits around high tide for smoother access and being prepared for wet conditions...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews underscore the importance of tide levels and weather conditions when planning a stay. The cabin is particularly useful for paddlers during rainy seasons but can feel cramped when...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Spent the final night of our Stikine River canoe trip at Garnet Ledge Cabin. After sleeping in the rain for a number of days prior it was a great place to land, dry gear and enjoy a fire!' -...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or reviews tied to individual campsites within Garnet Ledge Cabin are provided.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews or authoritative sources.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews addressing pet policies or experiences are provided.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025