Red Bay Lake Cabin
03 reviewsPO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA
Red Bay Lake Cabin
$35.00 - $55.00 / 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 based on season: $55 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30), $35 per night during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31). Additional fees may apply for modifications ($10) and cancellations ($10 plus first night recreation use fee for late cancellations). Reservation service fees are $8 online, $9 via the contact center, $3 in-person.
About this campground
Escape to the wild heart of Alaska at Red Bay Lake Cabin, where adventure begins with your journey to get there. Tucked away on Prince of Wales Island within the vast Tongass National Forest, this remote wilderness retreat beckons those seeking true solitude. Whether you arrive by the thrilling splash of a float plane landing on pristine waters or embark on an epic combination of driving, hiking, and boating, your destination promises an authentic Alaskan experience surrounded by towering peaks and ancient forests.
The Red Bay Lake Cabin is a primitive facility tailored for wilderness enthusiasts. It is ideal for small groups seeking solitude and adventure in an untouched Alaskan setting.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings gentle warmth to this northern paradise, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of colors before winter's grip takes hold, often sealing the lake beneath a sheet of ice that can make access impossible through early spring. The unpredictable Alaskan weather adds to the adventure—wise travelers pack extra provisions, knowing that nature here operates on its own schedule and may extend their wilderness sojourn unexpectedly.
ElevationYour wilderness home sits in the shadow of the magnificent Red Bay Mountain, whose sheer face soars an awe-inspiring 3,000 feet into the Alaskan sky, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and forest.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the haunting call of loons echoing across Red Bay Lake, where your cabin perches on a forested shore embraced by towering old-growth giants—ancient spruce, hemlock, and cedar that have stood sentinel for centuries. The vertical limestone wall of Red Bay Mountain dominates the horizon, its 3,000-foot face catching the light in dramatic displays throughout the day. Eagles circle overhead while Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from the forest shadows at dawn and dusk. Black bears roam these wild lands, reminding visitors they've entered one of North America's last great wilderness frontiers.
Geological RegionDeep within the legendary Tongass National Forest on Prince of Wales Island, this landscape tells a story written in stone and wood. Ancient limestone peaks pierce the sky, their vertical faces carved by millennia of weather, while at their feet spreads a cathedral of old-growth forest—massive spruce, hemlock, and cedar trees that have weathered centuries. Rocky outcroppings punctuate the dense canopy, and the crown jewel, Red Bay Mountain, stands as a 3,000-foot limestone monument to the raw power of geological forces that shaped this remarkable corner of Alaska.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGuests should be physically capable of undertaking the challenging access methods—via float plane or a combination of vehicle, hiking, and rowing.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious enough to accommodate eight guests but is otherwise compact and functional for a wilderness experience.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a secluded area surrounded by old-growth spruce, hemlock, and cedar trees, offering a high degree of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest bringing tools to fix the provided boat oars and extra firewood due to wet or insufficient supply. Consider carrying a small outboard motor for rowing across the lake.
Best CampsitesOnly one cabin is available at this location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is undefined.
Check-out
Check-out time is undefined.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 7 consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests can sleep in the cabin.
Groups
Group camping accommodations are not available. The cabin is suited for individual or small group use.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is a single 15 x 17-foot log structure with two stories, including a sleeping loft.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 1 - December 31; peak seasons are from May 1 to September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are available for the cabin.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date for a fee of $10. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) incur an additional charge equivalent to the first night's recreation use fee. Same-day cancellations and modifications are typically not allowed and depend on facility management discretion.
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
Red Bay Lake Cabin provides a range of outdoor activities in a pristine wilderness setting. Popular pursuits include fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, and boating. The cabin's remote location enhances the solitude and immersive natural experience.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the 3/4 mile Red Bay Lake Trail, which features a scenic boardwalk winding through large cedar trees. This trail leads to a row boat at the north end of the lake and offers access to the cabin. The hike is described as moderately challenging and highly scenic.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction at Red Bay Lake Cabin, with opportunities to catch coho, pink, chum, sockeye salmon, steelhead, cutthroat trout, and Dolly Varden. The nearby Red Bay Creek drainage is ideal for sport fishing. A user review noted catching a large silver salmon in the lake.Boating
The cabin is equipped with an aluminum skiff and oars for boating activities. Guests may bring a long shaft motor for convenience. User reviews highlight issues with boat maintenance, including damaged oars and water accumulation in the boat.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with chances to see loons, eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and black bears. The area’s old-growth forest and lakeside location promote diverse wildlife encounters.Winter Activities
Winter access can be challenging due to snow and ice, and float planes may not land on the frozen lake surface. Guests should come prepared for potential delays and difficult conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as rowing are supported. Guests can use the provided row boat to access the cabin or explore the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests should be conservative with firewood and use cook stoves for cooking. Firewood may not always be available.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears are present; visitors should follow bear safety protocols. Snow and icy conditions may make travel hazardous. Slippery decks and stairs have been noted in user reviews.
Active alertsWinter access may be difficult due to frozen lakes. Inclement weather can cause extended stays; guests should bring supplies to last 2-5 days.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 69%
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
Thorne Bay Ranger District for detailed safety precautions, phone: 907-828-3304.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30 (peak season).
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all garbage and food waste. Recycling facilities are not mentioned, emphasizing the need for campers to manage their own waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Red Bay Lake, with nearby creeks and streams providing water (must be filtered, boiled, or treated for consumption).
Common complaintsUser reviews mention poorly maintained boats and oars, inadequate firewood supply, and slippery decks and stairs.
HostManaged through the Thorne Bay Ranger District, phone: 907-828-3304.
Campground Map
PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA
Driving directionsRed Bay Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane or a vehicle/hiking/boating combination. The trailhead to access the cabin is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Hollis or 2 hours from Thorne Bay on Forest Road #20. From the trailhead, the 3/4 mile hike proceeds on a boardwalk through large cedar trees to a boat provided by the Forest Service on the lake. Visitors must then row 1.5 miles to reach their final destination. By plane, Red Bay Lake is located 40 air miles from Wrangell, 55 miles from Craig, and 84 miles from Ketchikan. Note that winter access may be difficult due to frozen lake surfaces.
Access requires a combination of driving, hiking, and boating. The trailhead is 3.5 hours from Hollis or 2 hours from Thorne Bay. Roads are generally accessible, but winter snow and ice conditions may pose challenges.Nearby places
Hollis (3.5-hour drive), Thorne Bay (2-hour drive), Wrangell (40 air miles), Craig (55 air miles), Ketchikan (84 air miles).
Nearby supplies
Supply locations are not explicitly mentioned
general preparation guidelines suggest visitors should bring food, water, and all necessary amenities, as none are available at the cabin.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Red Bay Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's natural beauty and peaceful setting, alongside challenges such as boat maintenance issues and insufficient firewood supplies. The cabin is praised for its cozy interior and breathtaking views.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users consistently praise the cabin's secluded location, scenic views, and comfortable wood stove, which provides warmth during cold weather. The cabin's skylights are appreciated for their ability...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent issues include poorly maintained boat oars, insufficient firewood (often wet), and slippery decks and stairs. Some reviewers caution future visitors to prepare for these challenges.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing tools to fix the boat oars, extra firewood, and supplies to handle wet conditions. It is also advised to exercise caution due to slippery decks and stairs.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that late-season visits often experience challenges related to wet firewood and damaged facilities. Winter access can be particularly difficult due to snow and ice.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Absolutely beautiful and peaceful. If you want to visit the cabin, be prepared to row the boat." – Daniel Pankratz
2. "We had to empty the boat full of water and fix the oars! Be prepared for...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific remarks focus on the cabin's interior and equipment. For example, the wood stove is described as cozy, while the skylights and sleeping arrangements are appreciated for their...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility challenges include the need to hike 3/4 mile and row across the lake, which may be difficult for individuals with physical limitations.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not addressed in the available reviews or official sources.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025