Mallard Slough Cabin
03 reviewsWRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK, 99929, USA
Mallard Slough Cabin
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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 cabin rental fee is $40 per night, applicable year-round. No discounts are available for Golden Age or Golden Passports. Additional fees for changes or cancellations may apply.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of the Stikine River Delta, where tides dictate your journey and wilderness reigns supreme, stands Mallard Slough Cabin—a modified A-frame sanctuary that beckons adventurers seeking true Alaska solitude. This remote outpost serves as your gateway to the magnificent Stikine-LeConte Wilderness, where ancient forests meet tidal waters and every day brings new discoveries. Whether you're tracking migratory birds at dawn, paddling through pristine waterways, or setting out on backcountry hunts, this cabin offers the perfect basecamp for those willing to work with nature's schedule and embrace the rhythm of the tides.
Mallard Slough Cabin primarily offers cabin-style lodging in a remote wilderness setting. The site is not equipped for traditional camping options like tent or RV setups.
Historical SignificanceFor centuries, this corner of the Stikine River tidal flats has served as nature's international airport, where countless shorebirds and waterfowl pause in their epic journeys between continents. Today, the cabin continues this legacy as a premier wildlife observation post within the Wrangell Ranger District, offering visitors front-row seats to one of North America's great migration spectacles. The rhythmic ebb and flow of the tides have shaped both the landscape and the experiences of all who venture here, creating a living connection to the timeless patterns of the natural world.
Weather and SeasonsLate summer brings gentle conditions to this coastal paradise, with temperatures hovering comfortably around 60°F during the day and cooling to a crisp 46°F at night—perfect for evening campfires and morning coffee on the deck. The region enjoys relatively dry spells punctuated by moderate rainfall during the spectacular spring and fall migration seasons, when thousands of birds transform the skies into living rivers of wings. Each season paints the landscape in different hues, from the vibrant greens of summer to the golden tapestry of autumn.
ElevationNestled at sea level where river meets ocean, the cabin rests on relatively flat terrain embraced by gentle, forest-covered hills that rise like protective shoulders around the delta. This low-elevation setting creates an intimate landscape where the drama unfolds horizontally across vast tidal flats rather than vertically up mountain peaks, offering expansive views that stretch to the horizon.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape that transforms twice daily with the tides, where mudflats become mirrors reflecting towering spruce and hemlock forests, and distant icebergs drift like ancient sentinels past your window. In May and June, carpets of wildflowers burst into bloom, painting the forest floor in brilliant splashes of color. To the north, the majestic LeConte Glacier—Alaska's southernmost tidewater glacier—calves icebergs into the pristine waters of LeConte Bay and Frederick Sound, creating an ever-changing gallery of crystalline sculptures that catch the light in magical ways.
Geological RegionThe Stikine River Delta represents a fascinating geological crossroads where one of North America's great rivers meets the sea, creating a dynamic ecosystem within the protected Stikine-LeConte Wilderness. This remarkable landscape weaves together emerald spruce-hemlock forests, vast tidal flats that breathe with the ocean's rhythm, and rolling hills clothed in ancient trees. The nearby presence of LeConte Glacier adds a dramatic glacial dimension to the scene, its ice-carved legacy visible in the bergs that drift through nearby waters like frozen time capsules from the Ice Age.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess to the cabin requires a high tide of at least 14 feet for shallow draft boats or 16 feet for float planes. The cabin is situated in a remote wilderness area, and guests must bring their own amenities.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself measures 16 by 16 feet and can sleep up to seven people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a secluded area between tide flats and a spruce-hemlock forest, providing significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended to bring additional firewood for extended warmth and consult tide tables before arrival to ensure safe access. Hiking trails beyond the maintained sections may be difficult to traverse.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite exists: the Mallard Slough Cabin.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights between May 1 and September 30, and 10 consecutive nights between October 1 and April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 7 guests can stay in the 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 layout on tide flats surrounded by forest and tidal areas.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season from May 1 to September 30; non-peak season from October 1 to April 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not applicable due to the requirement for advance reservations and remote access conditions.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for changes or cancellations made before the check-in date. For cancellations within 14 days of check-in, the first night's fee is forfeited. No refunds are issued for cancellations on 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
Food storage lockers
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mallard Slough Cabin offers a range of outdoor recreational activities suitable for wilderness enthusiasts. These include hiking, kayaking, birdwatching, waterfowl hunting, and exploring nearby tide flats and forests.
Hiking
The Mallard Slough Trail is a 2.7-mile trail leading from the cabin to LeConte Bay. The first 0.4 miles are maintained to Cheliped Bay grassflats, but the rest of the trail is marshy and marked only by occasional posts.Boating
The area around the cabin is ideal for exploration by kayak or canoe during high tide. However, guests must bring their own boats and flotation devices. Tide tables should be consulted before excursions.Wildlife viewing
The Stikine River tidal flats are a major stopover for shorebirds during spring and fall migrations. Wildlife in the area includes brown and black bears, bald eagles, moose, hawks, and owls.Winter Activities
While no specific winter activities are detailed, the area remains accessible for exploration during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are popular during high tides, though no equipment is provided at the cabin.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is not provided; guests must bring their own. Use of wood stove for heating is permitted.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown and black bears are present, requiring strict adherence to bear safety protocols. The presence of invasive European Green Crabs and Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning are additional concerns.
Active alertsReports of invasive European Green Crabs in Southeast Alaska. High PSP levels detected in the area.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.1 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
The nearest emergency services are in Wrangell or Petersburg, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests are expected to pack out all trash and clean the cabin before leaving.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near LeConte Bay and the North Arm of the Stikine River. LeConte Glacier and icebergs in Frederick Sound are easily accessible by boat during high tide.
Common complaintsAccess challenges due to tide requirements. Complaints about limited trail maintenance and marshy conditions.
Campground Map
WRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK, 99929, USA
Driving directionsMallard Slough Cabin is on the mainland between LeConte Bay and the North Arm of the Stikine River, on the Stikine River delta in the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness. This cabin is accessible by shallow draft boat or float plane, 18 miles by air or 20-22 miles by boat from Wrangell or Petersburg. Access generally requires a high tide of 14 feet or higher for shallow draft boats or 16 feet or higher for float planes.
The cabin is in a remote location and has no direct road access. It is accessible exclusively by shallow draft boat or float plane. Tides significantly affect access; a high tide of 14 feet or higher is required for boats, and 16 feet or higher for float planes.Nearby places
Wrangell (22 miles, approximately 1 hour by boat or float plane), Petersburg (20 miles, approximately 1 hour by boat or float plane)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Wrangell or Petersburg, the nearest cities to the cabin, before traveling to the site.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Mallard Slough Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally rate Mallard Slough Cabin positively, highlighting its unique location, maintenance, and suitability for wilderness exploration.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests frequently praise the cabin's remote location, well-maintained facilities, and suitability for activities like hiking and kayaking.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some reviews mention challenges with access due to tidal conditions and the need to bring numerous supplies, including firewood and potable water.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers advise checking tide tables for boat and float plane access and bringing extra firewood, water, and supplies for extended stays.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are noted for bird migrations, making them ideal for birdwatching. Summer offers better conditions for hiking and kayaking, while winter may present accessibility challenges.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Mallard Slough Cabin is a modified A-frame style cabin... with enough room in the loft for an additional three or so. It’s heated with a wood stove.' - Eric 'Castronaut'. 2. 'We liked this cabin...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviewers who stayed at W23 mentioned that the cabin is well-kept and provides excellent views. Seasonal waterfowl hunting opportunities were noted as a major draw.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility for disabled individuals, but the remote location and tidal access may present challenges.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information is available on pet policies or pet-specific reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025