Salmon Lake Cabin Thorne Bay
01 reviewSALMON LAKE CABIN, PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA
Salmon Lake Cabin Thorne Bay
$25.00 - $40.00 / 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
Fees vary by season. Peak season (May 1 - Sept 30): $40 per night. Non-peak season (Oct 1 - Dec 31): $25 per night. Additional reservation fees apply ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in person).
About this campground
Deep in the untamed wilderness of Prince of Wales Island, Salmon Lake Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan escape. This remote refuge, accessible only to those willing to embrace the journey, rewards visitors with world-class fishing, pristine hiking trails, and intimate wildlife encounters. While the cabin provides essential shelter and basic comforts, guests should arrive prepared for self-sufficient living and ready to navigate the challenges that make this destination so magnificently wild. Here, the rugged access and unpredictable weather aren't obstacles—they're part of the adventure that keeps this corner of Alaska beautifully untouched.
Salmon Lake Cabin offers a unique wilderness lodging experience in a remote area of southeastern Alaska.
Historical SignificanceLong before the first cabin logs were laid, the Haida people thrived in these waters and forests, their sophisticated culture deeply intertwined with the land's abundant resources. For countless generations, Native Alaskans navigated these waterways, harvested the legendary salmon runs, and passed down stories of this sacred landscape. Their legacy lives on in the very name of Salmon Lake, honoring the silvery fish that have sustained communities here for millennia. Today's visitors walk in the footsteps of these original inhabitants, experiencing the same timeless wilderness that has provided sustenance and spiritual connection for thousands of years.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythms of Southeast Alaska dictate life at Salmon Lake, where each season paints the wilderness in dramatically different hues. Summer transforms the landscape into an angler's paradise, with warm days perfect for casting lines and taking refreshing dips in the pristine waters. As autumn arrives, the forest explodes in color while salmon surge upstream in their ancient ritual. Winter wraps the cabin in a crystalline blanket, making access challenging as snow accumulates and the lake surface freezes into a mirror of ice. Throughout every season, the coastal weather keeps visitors on their toes—sunshine can shift to rain in moments, reminding all who venture here to pack layers and rain gear for any eventuality.
ElevationNestled within the coastal wilderness of Southeast Alaska, the cabin rests at an elevation where temperate rainforest meets pristine alpine waters. This unique positioning creates a microclimate that supports the region's incredible biodiversity, from towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock to the delicate understory of ferns and moss that carpet the forest floor.
Natural Features and SceneryPerched on Salmon Lake's northern shore, the cabin serves as your gateway to the magnificent Karta River Wilderness—a realm where nature still reigns supreme. Ancient forests of towering conifers create a emerald cathedral around the crystalline lake, their reflection doubling the drama on calm mornings. The Karta River system weaves through this landscape like nature's highway, channeling massive salmon runs that transform quiet streams into churning rivers of life each season. From your cabin door, watch as wolves emerge from morning mist, black bears amble along the shoreline in search of berries or fish, and Sitka black-tailed deer pick their way through the underbrush. Above, the haunting calls of trumpeter swans echo across the water, while bald eagles patrol from their lofty perches.
Geological RegionPrince of Wales Island, the third-largest island in the United States, cradles Salmon Lake within its vast southeastern Alaska wilderness. This geological wonderland within the Karta River Wilderness showcases the raw power of ancient glaciers that carved deep valleys and pristine lakes throughout the landscape. The island's unique position in the Alexander Archipelago creates a biological crossroads where marine and terrestrial ecosystems merge. Here, the legendary salmon runs that define the region surge through intricate river drainage systems, supporting an entire web of life from massive coastal brown bears to delicate stream insects. The surrounding old-growth forests harbor wolves that roam in shadows, black bears that rule the berry patches, graceful Sitka black-tailed deer, and majestic trumpeter swans that grace the waterways—all thriving in one of North America's last great wilderness frontiers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is located in a remote wilderness area and may not be accessible for individuals with mobility challenges due to its location and lack of developed trails.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 15 x 20 feet in size, providing adequate space for up to four people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, located on the northern shore of Salmon Lake in the Karta River Wilderness area, ensuring privacy and a scenic wilderness setting.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for small groups of up to 4 people. Visitors should prioritize preparation and self-sufficiency.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in anytime on the arrival date.
Check-out
Check-out by midnight on the departure date.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sleeps up to 4 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle structure cabin (15x20 ft) with wooden bunkbeds, cooking counter, and wood stove.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 1 - December 31. Reservable start dates: June 20 of each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov website, mobile app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations available; availability depends on the season and demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before scheduled arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than 14 days before arrival. No refunds for cancellations made on the day of arrival. Same-day reservations available.
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
Salmon Lake Cabin offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation in a remote and scenic wilderness setting. Activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, beachcombing, wildlife viewing, and boating.
Hiking
Guests can enjoy hiking the 5-mile Karta River Trail, which provides access to steelhead, sockeye, and coho salmon runs. Additional hiking to McGilvery Creek and Anderson Creek is available without developed trails. Visitors should have maps and orienteering skills.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include rainbow and cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and various salmon species such as pink, silver, and sockeye. Guests should consult the Alaska Department of Fish and Game for regulations like catch-and-release orders.Swimming
Swimming is popular during the summer months, particularly at the large sandy beach outside the cabin.Boating
Guests can use an aluminum skiff with oars provided at the cabin for boating activities. Personal flotation devices must be brought by visitors.Wildlife viewing
Common wildlife includes wolves, black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, beavers, otters, minks, martens, weasels, trumpeter swans, and waterfowl species. Guests are advised to learn about bear safety.Beach activities
Beachcombing and sunbathing on the large sandy beach are popular activities during warmer months.Winter Activities
Winter access may be difficult due to snow and ice conditions, making activities like hiking challenging.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddling are possible using the aluminum skiff provided, but guests must bring personal flotation devices.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests are asked to conserve firewood due to limited supply. Bringing fire starters is recommended.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife (bears, wolves), inclement weather, difficult terrain, and water safety risks.
Active alertsFall, winter, and early spring may see frozen lake surfaces, limiting float plane access. Weather conditions can extend trips unexpectedly.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 67%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.5 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
Closest emergency services are accessible through the Thorne Bay Ranger District (contact: 907-828-3304).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season: May 1 - September 30. Non-peak season: October 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingGuests must bring their own garbage bags, and all garbage and food leftovers must be packed out.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on the northern shore of Salmon Lake.
Common complaintsAccess challenges due to difficult terrain and seasonal weather conditions. Self-sufficiency requirements may be difficult for some visitors.
HostContact the Thorne Bay Ranger District at 907-828-3304 for more details.
Campground Map
SALMON LAKE CABIN, PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA
Driving directionsSalmon Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane or by boating 10 miles from Hollis to Karta Bay and hiking 5 miles on difficult terrain to reach the cabin. By plane, it is approximately 42 air miles from Ketchikan and 14 air miles from Thorne Bay. However, access may be limited in fall, winter, and early spring due to frozen lake surfaces. Helicopter access is illegal. Inclement weather conditions may extend trips, and winter access may be difficult due to snow and ice conditions; extra supplies for 2-5 days are recommended.
Access is challenging. The route includes float plane travel or boating and a 5-mile hike on difficult terrain. Seasonal weather can impede accessibility due to frozen lake surfaces and snow or ice conditions.Nearby places
Nearby cities: Ketchikan (42 air miles), Thorne Bay (14 air miles), Hollis (10 miles by boat to Karta Bay).
Nearby supplies
Visitors must bring their own supplies for food, water, equipment, and safety gear
nearby amenities are limited.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Salmon Lake Cabin Thorne Bay has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The Salmon Lake Cabin has limited user reviews available, with one review mentioning enjoying the cabin during rainy weather.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the scenic wilderness setting, the rustic cabin design, and recreational opportunities such as fishing and hiking.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited accessibility, lack of running water and electricity, and the necessity to bring many basic amenities are potential concerns for visitors.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests should ensure they are well-prepared with maps, orienteering skills, and extra supplies for 2-5 days due to the remote location. Bringing personal flotation devices for boating is mandatory.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The summer months are ideal for swimming and beachcombing, while winter may present challenges due to snow and ice.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Our outboard motor would not start so we enjoyed sitting in the cabin while it rained" - Judy S.
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews beyond the general mention of enjoying the cabin during rainy weather.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility may be a challenge due to the remote location and lack of developed trails.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit mention of pet policies or reviews related to pets.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025