Jims Lake Cabin
05 reviewsADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT
Jims Lake Cabin
$35.00 - $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
Facility rates vary by season: the nightly fee is $45 during peak season (May to September) and $35 during non-peak season (October to December).
About this campground
Escape to Jim's Lake Cabin, where the pristine wilderness of Tongass National Forest becomes your private sanctuary. Perched on a dramatic rocky outcrop above the shimmering waters of Jim's Lake, this remote retreat immerses you in an untouched landscape of ancient forests and muskeg meadows. Here, centuries-old spruce and hemlock trees stand as silent sentinels while glacier-crowned peaks pierce the horizon, creating a backdrop that feels wonderfully removed from the modern world.
Jim's Lake Cabin offers a primitive and remote camping experience. It is best suited for small groups looking for a rustic and self-sufficient wilderness retreat.
Historical SignificanceYour stay places you within the legendary Kootznoowoo Wilderness, a breathtaking expanse of nearly one million acres that represents one of America's last great frontiers. This protected paradise on Admiralty Island has remained virtually unchanged for millennia, offering visitors a rare glimpse into Alaska's wild heart as it has existed since time immemorial.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through November, Jim's Lake transforms into a mirror reflecting the surrounding wilderness, perfect for paddling adventures and wildlife watching. Adventurous winds occasionally sweep across the water, adding drama to the landscape and reminding visitors of nature's raw power. When winter arrives, the lake becomes a frozen wonderland, with temperatures plunging to create a crystalline landscape that only the hardiest explorers dare to experience.
ElevationAt 232 feet above sea level, the cabin commands spectacular vistas across Jim's Lake to the towering, glacier-draped peaks that define Admiralty Island's dramatic spine. This modest elevation provides the perfect vantage point for watching morning mist rise from the water and evening alpenglow paint the distant summits in shades of rose and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering spruce and hemlock create cathedral-like groves, their ancient trunks disappearing into a canopy so dense it filters sunlight into ethereal beams. Beyond the forest, mysterious muskeg wetlands stretch toward glacier-capped peaks that scrape the sky. This is prime territory for Alaska's most iconic residents—majestic bald eagles soar overhead, Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows at dawn, and the magnificent brown bears that rule this wilderness kingdom leave their tracks along hidden trails.
Geological RegionNestled within the heart of the Kootznoowoo Wilderness in Tongass National Forest, the cabin occupies a remarkable position on Admiralty Island—often called the 'Fortress of the Bears.' This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through its tapestry of old-growth forests, pristine lakes carved by ancient glaciers, spongy muskeg meadows that have evolved over thousands of years, and the dramatic peaks still crowned with ice that tell the story of the island's glacial past.
Campsite details
Accessibility"The remote location and floatplane-only access make the site challenging for individuals with mobility issues." The cabin environment includes uneven terrain and dense surrounding forests.
Sites SizeThe cabin is designed to fit up to six people, making it suitable for small groups or families.
Sites PrivacySince the cabin is the only accommodation at this location, privacy is exceptional. It is surrounded by dense old-growth forest, ensuring seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFishing near 'One Tree Island' offers good results according to user reviews. Bringing 8-9 foot oars for the skiff is recommended.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight excellent fishing spots at the South end of the lake and 'One Tree Island'.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 10 nights per visit and 7 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sleeps up to six people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 1 - December 31. Peak season: May 1 - September 30. Non-peak season: October 1 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made at least 14 days before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and customers forfeit the first night's fee if canceled within 14 days.
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
Jim's Lake Cabin offers a range of recreational activities that leverage its remote, natural setting. "Hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing are all within the vicinity of the cabin." Visitors can also enjoy boating using the provided skiff with oars.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities exist in the surrounding area, but the dense underbrush and rugged terrain make exploration challenging. "The woods have lots of underbrush and are very hard to move through," according to one reviewer.Fishing
Fishing at Jim's Lake is excellent, with anglers reporting good catches of cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon. "Best fishing at the south end of the lake or near 'One Tree Island,'" noted a user. The setting is described as scenic and tranquil.Boating
A skiff with oars is provided for guests to explore the lake. Visitors can bring a small outboard motor less than 10 horsepower due to wilderness regulations. Personal flotation devices are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and brown bears. One reviewer described finding deer near the cabin, although the dense underbrush poses challenges for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified, but access may be limited due to ice on the lake, which prevents floatplane landings during fall, winter, and early spring.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as using the skiff are possible, but no additional equipment for kayaking or paddleboarding is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- A wood stove is available for heating, and firewood is generally stacked nearby but is not guaranteed.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown bears are frequent in the area, and visitors should be prepared for bear safety. Weather conditions can be extreme, and the terrain is demanding.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
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 Admiralty Island National Monument at 907-586-8800 for emergency-related guidance prior to arrival.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out all garbage and food waste, and there are no on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin overlooks Jim’s Lake and offers opportunities for fishing and boating.
Common complaints"It can be very windy in this area" (user review), and issues with the condition of the provided skiff have been mentioned.
Campground Map
ADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by floatplane only. It is about a 50-minute flight from Juneau. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (floatplanes cannot land). The lake is normally ice-free from mid-May through November. Refer to USGS topographic map Sitka C-1, C-2.
Access is seasonal and restricted to floatplane travel only. Helicopter access is prohibited. During fall, winter, and early spring, frozen lake surfaces may hinder accessibility.Nearby supplies
Supplies must be brought in by visitors due to the remote nature of the area. Juneau, approximately 50 minutes away by floatplane, is the closest city for supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Jims Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Jim's Lake Cabin as a beautiful and remote retreat. "Fishing was excellent," and the rustic setting adds to the charm. However, some users noted that the site can be windy, and the surrounding dense underbrush makes hiking and wildlife viewing challenging.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
- Excellent fishing opportunities with scenic views.
- Cabin described as being in good condition, with a functional fire pit and wood stove.
- The provided skiff allows for unique exploration of the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Broken welds on the skiff make it less stable.
- Dense underbrush makes hiking challenging.
- Windy conditions can be bothersome.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring your own oars for the skiff as the provided ones may not be reliable.
- Pack out all garbage to keep the site clean for future visitors.
- For the best fishing, try the south end of the lake...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is most accessible from mid-May to November when the lake is ice-free. Winter and early spring visits are challenging due to frozen conditions.
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Fishing was excellent. The hunting was good. Beautiful place!" - Rodney C.
"The woods have lots of underbrush and are very hard to move through." - Aaron T.
"Amazing place, you will not be...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site A10 received positive feedback for fishing and scenic views. Visitors are encouraged to leave the cabin clean and pack out all trash.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Due to the remote location and challenging terrain, the cabin may not be accessible for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025