Salmon Lake Cabin Sitka
4.5910 reviews2108 HALIBUT POINT RD, SITKA, AK, USA, 99835
Salmon Lake Cabin Sitka
$50.00 - $50.00 / 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
Recreation use fee of $50 per night for cabin reservations. Reservation fees are additional.
About this campground
Nestled on the pristine eastern shore of Salmon Lake, this secluded wilderness cabin offers an authentic Alaskan escape just southeast of Sitka. Your journey begins with a scenic floatplane ride or a boat trip followed by an invigorating 2-mile hike through coastal rainforest. Built in 1998, this cozy retreat sleeps up to six adventurers and serves as your basecamp for world-class fishing expeditions, backcountry hiking adventures, and thrilling seasonal deer hunting in one of Alaska's most breathtaking landscapes.
Primary accommodation consists of the Salmon Lake Cabin, which is classified as rustic and remote. Options for tent, RV, or group camping are not available.
Historical SignificanceThis beloved wilderness retreat stands as a testament to community spirit and outdoor heritage. In 1998, dedicated U.S. Coast Guard volunteers rolled up their sleeves and constructed this cabin, creating a lasting legacy that continues to connect visitors with Alaska's raw beauty. Their vision of accessible wilderness recreation lives on in every guest who crosses the threshold into this remote sanctuary.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unveils Salmon Lake at its finest, with June through October offering mild temperatures and the wilderness teeming with life. As winter approaches, the lake transforms into a frozen wonderland from mid-November through mid-February, creating a natural barrier that preserves the area's untouched beauty. The temperate rainforest climate means precipitation is your frequent companion—pack your rain gear and embrace the misty mornings and dramatic skies that make this corner of Alaska so enchanting.
ElevationThe cabin sits in the embrace of towering spruce and hemlock-clad mountains that soar dramatically to 2,500 feet, creating a natural amphitheater around your wilderness home. These ancient peaks stand as silent sentinels, their forested slopes cascading down to meet the mirror-like waters of Salmon Lake.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the reflection of emerald forests on the glassy surface of Salmon Lake, a hidden jewel stretching three-quarters of a mile long and a quarter-mile wide. Towering spruce and hemlock create a living cathedral around this secluded water body, while mountains reaching 2,500 feet paint a dramatic backdrop. This is brown bear country, where these magnificent creatures roam freely through their ancestral homeland. During salmon season, the lake's outlet stream becomes nature's theater as spawning fish surge upstream, attracting wildlife and creating unforgettable viewing opportunities for those lucky enough to witness this ancient cycle.
Geological RegionPerched on the rugged terrain of Baranof Island, Salmon Lake occupies a spectacular mountain valley carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millennia of natural forces. The surrounding peaks, cloaked in dense spruce and hemlock forests, rise majestically to 2,500 feet, creating a pristine wilderness sanctuary that exemplifies the untamed beauty of Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe trail leading to the cabin consists of gentle inclines but includes some wet and mucky spots, making accessibility a challenge for individuals with mobility issues. User reviews recommend skipping parts of the trail by paddling up to the estuary at high tide.
Sites SizeThe cabin is approximately 15'x17', providing sufficient space for six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded and surrounded by spruce and hemlock forests, offering significant privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring rain gear, extra base layers for cold weather, and a long-shaft outboard motor if planning to use the skiff.
Best CampsitesS18 (Salmon Lake Cabin)
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six people in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin facility with amenities specified for six occupants.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens June 1st and closes December 31st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability specified.
Cancellation PolicyCustomers may cancel a reservation prior to the day of the reservation check-in date. A $10 cancellation fee applies for cancellations; late cancellations subtract the first night's recreation use fee in addition to the $10 fee.
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
Potable water
Lodging and accommodations
Activities you can enjoy
Salmon Lake Cabin Sitka offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing, hiking, seasonal deer hunting, and exploring nearby trails. The fishing opportunities are especially highlighted, with species such as cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, pink salmon, sockeye salmon, and coho salmon. Hiking trails provide access to the estuary and Salmon Creek, with some areas being wet and challenging.
Hiking
The 2-mile Salmon Lake-Redoubt Lake Trail leads from the cabin to Silver Bay. Additional trails along Salmon Creek are noted for their good condition, though users report some wet and mucky spots. Hiking to alpine areas southeast of the cabin involves steep bushwhacking and following game trails.Fishing
The lake and its streams provide fishing opportunities for cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, pink salmon, sockeye salmon from July to mid-August, and coho salmon from late August to September. User reviews highlight the lake's productivity for fishing, particularly at the outlet.Boating
A heavy square-bowed skiff with oars is provided, though users suggest a long-shaft outboard motor enhances its usability. The mooring buoy supports boat anchorage, but ocean access may be limited in winter due to freezing conditions.Wildlife viewing
Brown bears are frequently seen in the area, and bear scat has been noted on trails. Visitors should exercise caution in bear country.Winter Activities
During winter, the lake may freeze, allowing for ice fishing, though success rates vary. Snow accumulation and freezing in the valley can create challenges for accessibility.Water Sports
Water-related activities, including fishing and boating, are popular. Kayaks or canoes are recommended for enhanced exploration of the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood may be scarce, and campers are encouraged to bring fire starters. Follow guidelines to prevent forest fires.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown bears frequent the area. Wet and mucky trail conditions, freezing lake surface in winter, and limited accessibility during extreme weather.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 78%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.7 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
Sitka Ranger District Office, 2108 HALIBUT POINT RD, Sitka, AK, 99835.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1, 2025 - October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all garbage and food as no trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Salmon Lake, with access to outlet streams and estuary at Silver Bay.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews highlight poor maintenance by some guests, scarcity of firewood, and challenging trail conditions during wet weather.
HostManaged by Sitka Ranger District, contact at 907-747-6671.
Campground Map
2108 HALIBUT POINT RD, SITKA, AK, USA, 99835
Driving directionsAccessible nearly year-round, depending on mode of access. Located 11 miles southeast of Sitka on Baranof Island, approximately 10 minutes by floatplane. Access by boat from Sitka to Silver Bay is 10 miles, and a 2-mile trail leads to the cabin. Trail begins near mooring buoy at the end of Silver Bay. Plan arrival and departure during high tide, unload gear at east shore at estuary head, then tie up boat at mooring buoy.
Accessible via floatplane or by boat followed by a 2-mile hike. Seasonal access issues include freezing at Silver Bay mid-November to mid-February and frozen lake surface November to early April, limiting floatplane access.Nearby places
Sitka (11 miles southeast)
Nearby supplies
Sitka (11 miles southeast) for groceries, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.6
10 reviews
Salmon Lake Cabin Sitka is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's remote and beautiful location, emphasizing fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Some reviews mention minor issues such as wet trails, limited firewood, and challenges with the wood stove.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praise the cabin's cleanliness, proximity to town, and overall seclusion. The fishing opportunities and scenic surroundings are highly appreciated.
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include challenges with the wood stove, lack of dry firewood, and minor maintenance issues such as worn bug screens.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra base layers and rain gear in case of wet weather. Carry a long-shaft outboard motor for boating and treat or bring potable water. Skip wet trail segments by paddling to the estuary during...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews focus on fishing, while winter reviews highlight challenges such as frozen lake surfaces and snow accumulation. Visitors recommend visiting earlier or later in the year for improved...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Love Salmon Lake Cabin -- With it being so close to town it's accessible in nearly any weather.' 'Great cabin and location to explore.' 'Such a beautiful spot! Cabin was left...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews focus on cabin S18, with comments on its cleanliness, functionality, and proximity to trails and fishing spots.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is noted as moderate due to uneven and wet trail conditions. Some users recommend alternatives such as paddling up the estuary for easier access.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025