Manzanita Lake Cabin
00 reviewManzanita Lake Cabin
$60.00 - $75.00 / 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
Rates are $75 per night during peak season (May 1st to September 30th) and $60 per night during non-peak season (October 1st to December 31st). Additional fees may apply for changes, cancellations, or late arrivals.
About this campground
Hidden deep within Alaska's wilderness, Manzanita Lake Cabin awaits those brave enough to leave civilization behind. This remote sanctuary, reachable only by the gentle splash of a float plane landing or the rhythmic dip of canoe paddles, promises an escape into pristine solitude. Here, primitive living meets breathtaking beauty, where your only neighbors are the whisper of ancient trees and the call of wild creatures. This isn't just a cabin—it's your gateway to experiencing nature as few ever will, untouched and utterly magnificent.
Manzanita Lake Cabin caters to primitive campers, offering a rustic and remote wilderness cabin experience.
Historical SignificanceYour stay places you within the legendary Misty Fiords Monument Wilderness, a protected treasure that stands as one of America's most spectacular natural cathedrals. This pristine landscape has remained virtually unchanged for millennia, offering modern visitors the rare privilege of experiencing the same dramatic vistas and untamed wilderness that have inspired indigenous peoples and early explorers alike.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic personality of Alaska's seasons at Manzanita Lake. Winter transforms this wilderness into a crystalline wonderland, where snow blankets the landscape in hushed beauty and temperatures plunge into an invigorating freeze. Come summer, the cabin basks under moderate temperatures and brilliantly clear skies, with dry mountain air that carries the scent of sun-warmed cedar. Each season paints the wilderness in new colors, offering adventurers a completely different experience with every visit.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering granite cliffs rise like ancient sentinels around Manzanita Lake, their faces adorned with ribbons of cascading waterfalls that thunder into mist-shrouded pools below. The cabin nestles among giants—old-growth spruce, hemlock, and cedar trees that have stood witness to centuries of seasons. Mountain goats navigate impossible ledges with balletic grace, while black bears amble through berry patches. Moose wade through marshy shallows as bald eagles circle overhead, their distinctive calls echoing off canyon walls. This is nature's amphitheater, and you have a front-row seat.
Geological RegionManzanita Lake Cabin sits at the heart of Misty Fiords Monument Wilderness, where geology tells an epic story written in stone and water. Massive granite walls, carved by ancient glaciers, create a dramatic backdrop that seems almost otherworldly in its grandeur. Countless waterfalls cascade down these vertical monuments, feeding the pristine waters below. The surrounding old-growth forest of spruce, hemlock, and cedar creates a living cathedral, where some trees have stood for over 800 years, their massive trunks testament to the enduring power of this untamed landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned. The remote location and primitive setup may pose challenges for visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself is 12x14-ft. in size.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is surrounded by old-growth spruce, hemlock, and cedar, providing natural privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended to bring all necessary amenities including water, fire starter, and adequate rain gear.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with 2 single bunks and 2 double bunks.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1st through December 31st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations available, but walk-up availability is not specified.
Cancellation PolicyChanges can be made up to one time for $10. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee plus a $10 penalty.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Manzanita Lake Cabin provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, hunting, rowing, and hiking. "A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets."
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the surrounding wilderness area. Note that the Manzanita Lake Trail was severely damaged in a 2010 storm, and visitors are advised to contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for current trail conditions.Fishing
The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon.Boating
The cabin includes access to a 14-foot aluminum skiff for rowing around the lake. Visitors must bring their own life jackets.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with possible sightings of mountain goats, bears, deer, moose, bald eagles, and beavers. "Many species of birds may be seen in or around the lake."Winter Activities
In fall, winter, and early spring, the lake surface may freeze, limiting access to the cabin and float plane landings.Water Sports
Visitors can use a rowboat to access water areas but must provide their own safety equipment such as life jackets.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Bring biobricks for the wood stove; adhere to Wilderness fire safety rules.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include wildlife such as bears and moose, freezing water conditions, and challenging weather.
Active alertsContact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District to confirm trail and weather conditions. Manzanita Lake Trail was severely damaged in a 2010 storm.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 63%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.7 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
Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District, contact number 907-225-2148.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1st to September 30th.
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out their trash and food. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water features100 yards from the lake shore and near cascading waterfalls.
Common complaintsNo electricity, indoor plumbing, or cell phone coverage. Visitors must bring all supplies, including water and firewood.
HostNo campground hosts mentioned.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe cabin is located approximately 28 miles northeast of Ketchikan on Revillagigedo Island on the northwest arm of Manzanita Lake and is accessible by float plane or canoe. 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 District for information prior to making reservations during these periods. Refer to USGS Ketchikan C-4.
Accessible by float plane or canoe only. In fall, winter, and early spring, it may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surfaces.Nearby places
Ketchikan, Alaska - 28 miles northeast
Nearby supplies
Ketchikan, Alaska - 28 miles away.
Camper Reviews
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Review Summaries
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Seasonal Insights
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Accessibility Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025