Phocena Bay Cabin
03 reviewsPhocena Bay 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
The fee varies seasonally: $75 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30) and $60 per night during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31). Additional fees may apply for changes ($10 fee per modification) and cancellations ($10 fee plus loss of first night's stay if cancellation occurs within 14 days of arrival).
About this campground
Escape to the edge of the world at Phocena Bay Cabin, where a weathered log sanctuary awaits on the wild south shore of Gravina Island. This authentic Alaskan hideaway has stood sentinel since 1973, when it was first carved from local timber, then carefully relocated to its current pristine location in 1985. Here, you'll trade modern conveniences for something far more valuable—complete immersion in untamed wilderness. With no electricity to dim the stars, no plumbing to mask the sound of lapping waves, and no cell service to interrupt your thoughts, this primitive retreat offers the rare gift of true disconnection in one of Alaska's most spectacular settings.
Phocena Bay Cabin offers primitive accommodations in a remote and wild setting. It is designed for visitors seeking a rustic outdoor experience.
Historical SignificanceThis humble cabin carries the soul of Alaska's frontier spirit, hand-built in 1973 when reaching this remote corner required true determination. Its 1985 relocation tells a story of preservation and respect for the land, ensuring future generations could experience this special place. Nestled within the Tongass National Forest—the largest intact temperate rainforest in the world—the cabin sits on lands that have sustained indigenous peoples for thousands of years. Here, ancient Sitka spruces and western hemlocks tower overhead, their moss-draped branches whispering stories of the Tlingit people who first navigated these intricate waterways and the hardy settlers who followed.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Phocena Bay into a temperate paradise, with temperatures hovering between a comfortable 56°F and 64°F—perfect for exploring without the bite of arctic cold. While Southeast Alaska's famous mists and gentle rains create an ever-changing canvas of clouds and sun, they also nurture the lush rainforest that surrounds your cabin retreat. The prime window for adventure runs from May through September, when endless daylight stretches your days and the forest comes alive with activity. Pack your rain gear and embrace the moody beauty of coastal Alaska, where dramatic skies and filtered sunlight create photography moments at every turn.
ElevationThe cabin rests on surprisingly gentle terrain, a welcoming flat expanse that makes exploration easy for adventurers of all abilities. This level ground provides a comfortable base camp for your wilderness experience, whether you're hauling gear from the shore or setting out for a morning walk through the surrounding forest.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in a protected cove where ancient rainforest meets the sea, Phocena Bay Cabin offers front-row seats to nature's daily theater. When the tide retreats, it unveils a vast wonderland of tide pools teeming with colorful sea stars, scuttling hermit crabs, and swaying anemones—your own private aquarium stretching to the horizon. Towering Chapin Peak and the dramatic Puppet Mountains frame your views, their slopes often wreathed in mystical fog. The real stars here are the wildlife: elegant Sitka black-tailed deer browsing at forest's edge, wolves leaving tracks on the beach at dawn, and black bears fishing the streams. Overhead, bald eagles patrol their domain while mink dart along the shoreline. If fortune smiles, you might witness the breathtaking spectacle of humpback whales breaching offshore or catch sight of orcas' distinctive dorsal fins slicing through the bay.
Geological RegionPhocena Bay Cabin claims a spectacular corner of Gravina Island, deep within the 17-million-acre Tongass National Forest—America's largest national forest and a temperate rainforest of global significance. Your sheltered cove provides intimate access to this ecological marvel, where thousand-year-old trees create cathedral-like groves and the rhythm of the tides shapes daily life. The expansive tide flats that emerge twice daily reveal the fascinating intertidal zone, while the surrounding peaks—including majestic Chapin Peak and the aptly named Puppet Mountains—showcase the dramatic geology that makes Southeast Alaska a wonderland of fjords, islands, and ice-carved valleys. This is island living at its most raw and beautiful, where the Pacific Ocean's moods paint an ever-changing masterpiece just beyond your doorstep.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12x14 feet and accommodates up to 6 people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is tucked into a sheltered cove backed by rainforest, offering privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrepare to anchor within Phocena Bay due to the unsafe mooring buoy. Bring rain gear and boots for exploring surrounding areas.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is a single campsite accommodating up to 6 guests.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Accommodates up to 6 guests.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned. The cabin accommodates up to 6 people, but group campsites are not available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle log cabin accommodating up to 6 guests.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is open year-round. Peak season is May 1 to September 30, and non-peak season is October 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are allowed for this cabin.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. However, cancellations within 14 days of the arrival date incur a late cancellation fee of $10 plus loss of the first night's stay fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee per modification.
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
Phocena Bay Cabin is ideal for outdoor recreation, with opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The area offers easy hiking trails to explore surrounding tide pools and forest areas. Saltwater fishing is available for several species, including ling cod, red snapper, halibut, and salmon, though local tide tables must be consulted due to varying water levels. Wildlife sightings include humpback and killer whales, deer, wolves, black bears, and nesting bald eagles.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include easy trails through nearby tide pools and surrounding forest areas. Hikers are encouraged to explore the area's natural beauty.Fishing
Saltwater fishing is available for ling cod, red snapper, halibut, and salmon outside the bay. Fishing permits and seasonal regulations must be checked through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.Boating
Boating opportunities include kayaking and exploring local waters. Visitors must consult tide tables, as water levels near the cabin drop significantly at low tide. The mooring buoy is deemed unsafe, requiring boats to anchor directly within the bay.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including sightings of humpback and killer whales, Sitka black-tailed deer, wolves, black bears, bald eagles, and Queen Charlotte goshawks.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities are not specified in the source materials.Water Sports
Kayaking and boating are supported but must be planned according to tide tables due to varying water levels.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- A wood stove is provided for heating, but visitors must bring their own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include exposure to unsettled tides and weather, encounters with black bears, and the remoteness of the area requiring self-sufficiency for safety and supplies.
Active alertsVisitors should be aware of invasive European Green Crab sightings in southern Southeast Alaska and exercise caution.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 10.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are likely in Ketchikan, 15 air miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not provided. Visitors must pack out all trash, gear, and food.
Proximity to water featuresClose to tide pools and saltwater fishing opportunities in Phocena Bay and Clarence Strait.
Common complaintsGuests have commented on the lack of a usable mooring buoy, noting that anchorage in the bay can be tricky due to exposure to unsettled water conditions.
Campground Map
Driving directionsApproximately 15 air miles and 25 water miles from Ketchikan on the south shore of Phocena Bay on the west side of Gravina Island. Accessible by floatplane or by boat. A mooring buoy is located in Phocena Bay. Refer to USGS Ketchikan A-6. Please consult local tide tables before departing for the cabin.
The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane or boat. Visitors are responsible for planning their own transportation. It is important to check tide tables before departure as water conditions can significantly impact access.Nearby places
Ketchikan (approximately 15 air miles and 25 water miles away)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Ketchikan, which is approximately 15 air miles and 25 water miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Phocena Bay Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the cabin for its serene location and beautiful surroundings. The cleanliness of the cabin and stocked firewood were noted positively, while some visitors mentioned challenges related to anchoring boats and accessing the cabin due to tidal conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Most users highlighted the cabin's cleanliness, stocked firewood, and scenic beauty. Direct quotes include 'Absolutely beautiful place. The cabin was clean and firewood was stocked.'
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues raised include the lack of a usable mooring buoy, tricky anchoring, and accessibility challenges during low tide. One user stated, 'No mooring buoy! Anchorage is tricky and access can be tough...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing adequate supplies, including firewood and water, preparing for the lack of cell service, and consulting local tide tables for safe access.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest the cabin is best visited during calmer seasons when tidal conditions and accessibility are more manageable.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Absolutely beautiful place. The cabin was clean and firewood was stocked.' 2. 'No mooring buoy! Anchorage is tricky and access can be tough thanks to its exposure to water that is often...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mainly refer to the cabin's loop (AREA PHOCENA BAY CABIN) and highlight challenges related to the anchoring of boats.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned in the reviews or source materials.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or experiences are not mentioned in the reviews or source materials.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025