Plenty Cutthroat Cabin
00 reviewPlenty Cutthroat Cabin
$45.00 - $60.00 / 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: Peak season (May 1 - Sept 30): $60, Non-peak season (Oct 1 - Dec 31): $45. Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of Tongass National Forest, where the modern world fades into wilderness, Plenty Cutthroat Cabin awaits the adventurous soul. This secluded retreat on the shores of Orchard Lake offers an authentic back-to-nature experience, accessible only by the romantic journey of float plane or boat across pristine waters. Here, without the distractions of electricity, plumbing, or cell service, you'll discover the profound peace of primitive cabin living. Days unfold at nature's pace—casting lines for cutthroat trout at dawn, exploring hidden forest trails, or simply watching the mist rise from the lake as ancient trees stand sentinel around you.
Plenty Cutthroat Cabin offers a remote, primitive camping experience in Alaska. The site is suitable for campers who are self-sufficient and prepared for rugged conditions.
Historical SignificanceYour stay connects you to one of Earth's last great wilderness treasures—the Tongass National Forest, the planet's largest remaining intact temperate rainforest. This living cathedral of ancient trees has stood for millennia, serving as both ecological sanctuary and cultural touchstone. The forest holds deep significance for Alaska Native peoples and continues to inspire all who venture into its verdant depths, where every moss-covered trunk and misty valley tells the story of an ecosystem that has thrived since time immemorial.
Weather and SeasonsThe cabin reveals different personalities with each passing season. From May through September, the forest comes alive under gentle sunshine and comfortable temperatures, making these months ideal for your wilderness escape. As autumn arrives, October through December transforms the landscape into a moody masterpiece of rain-washed forests and early snowfall, perfect for those seeking solitude and dramatic natural beauty. Winter and early spring present their own rewards for the intrepid—though frozen lakes may challenge access, the pristine silence and snow-dusted forest create an otherworldly experience.
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Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your cabin door into a world painted in a thousand shades of green. Towering old-growth giants—majestic cedar, Sitka spruce, and western hemlock—create a natural cathedral overhead, their ancient branches draped in moss and lichen. Orchard Lake stretches before you like a mirror, reflecting the forested mountain peaks that frame this wilderness sanctuary. For those who venture along the trail from Shrimp Bay, twin waterfalls await as your reward, their cascading waters providing nature's soundtrack to your forest wanderings. Every view offers a masterpiece of untouched wilderness, from morning mist dancing across the lake to eagles soaring above the treeline.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Tongass National Forest, the cabin sits in the heart of the world's largest temperate rainforest ecosystem. This geological wonderland showcases nature's architectural prowess through soaring old-growth cedar, Sitka spruce, and western hemlock that have weathered centuries. The surrounding mountain peaks, carved by ancient glaciers and time itself, cradle Orchard Lake in their embrace, creating a natural amphitheater where forest meets water in perfect harmony. This is a landscape shaped by rain, time, and the patient work of nature—a living museum of Pacific Northwest temperate rainforest at its most pristine.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12x12 feet, accommodating up to 6 people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a remote, secluded location, offering maximum privacy and immersion in nature.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider accessibility challenges when planning; bring adequate supplies including water, firewood, and safety gear. Opt for summer months for mild weather and easier transport conditions.
Best CampsitesCabin site is singular and well-situated near Orchard Lake with scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 nights per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin accommodates up to 6 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin in isolated lakeside location; no camping loops or additional sites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to Dec 31. Reservations available starting Jun 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations allowed for this cabin.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee if made less than 14 days before arrival. Late cancellations or modifications are subject to additional penalties as per Recreation.gov policies.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Plenty Cutthroat Cabin offers opportunities for exploring Alaska's outdoors, including fishing, hiking, and boating. Visitors can enjoy serene lake views and wildlife sightings in this remote and tranquil destination.
Hiking
"Visitors hiking the trail between Shrimp Bay and the cabin can access an overlook to view one of the twin waterfalls spilling out of Orchard Lake." Hiking opportunities include a 1-mile trail from Shrimp Bay to the cabin.Fishing
Fishing for cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon in Orchard Lake is a draw for visitors. Campers must secure their own fishing permits.Boating
The cabin provides a 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars for rowing around Orchard Lake. Visitors must bring their own life jackets. The skiff can accommodate a short-shaft motor, which is not provided.Wildlife viewing
"The area supports populations of Sitka black-tailed deer, black bear, wolf, beaver, marten, mink and otter. A variety of birds may be spotted in and around the lake." This makes the location ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to a frozen lake surface, which prevents float planes from landing.Water Sports
Visitors can engage in non-motorized water activities such as rowing the provided skiff. They may also use a short-shaft motor for an enhanced boating experience, although the motor is not included.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Bring your own firewood or biobricks, and firewood gathering tools. Firewood availability is not guaranteed.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears, wolves, and other wildlife native to the region. Visitors are advised to follow bear safety precautions and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Active alertsSeasonal frozen lakes may restrict access during fall, winter, and early spring. Visitors must consult tide tables and contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for current conditions before departure.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District: 907-225-2148. Additional emergency services available in Ketchikan (35 air miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash, food, and gear. No trash or recycling facilities are provided on-site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on Orchard Lake, with additional nearby creeks and twin waterfalls accessible via hiking trails.
Common complaintsNo electricity, plumbing, or cell service. Firewood availability cannot be guaranteed. Accessibility challenges due to remote location and seasonal conditions.
HostNull
Campground Map
Driving directionsApproximately 35 air miles from Ketchikan at the west end of Orchard Lake. Accessible by float plane or boat. A 1-mile trail from Shrimp Bay provides saltwater access. Mooring buoy for boat is located in Klu Bay. Refer to USGS Ketchikan D-5. 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. Please consult local tide tables before departing for the cabin.
Accessible only via float plane or boat to Shrimp Bay, followed by a 1-mile hike. Seasonal frozen lakes may limit access.Nearby places
Ketchikan (35 miles by air)
Nearby supplies
Ketchikan, AK (35 air miles away) offers groceries, fuel, and other supplies.
Camper Reviews
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Last updated August 10, 2025