Shakes Slough 2 Cabin
03 reviewsP.O. BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK, 99929, USA.
Shakes Slough 2 Cabin
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$40.00
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
Nightly rate is $40 for Cabin Nonelectric during all seasons. Recreation use fees apply. Reservation service fees (non-refundable) vary depending on booking method (e.g., $8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Deep within the untamed Stikine-LeConte Wilderness, where the mighty Stikine River meets the tranquil waters of Shakes Slough, stands a rustic refuge for the adventurous soul. Shakes Slough 2 Cabin beckons those seeking solitude amid Alaska's raw beauty, offering front-row seats to the dramatic Popof Glacier and the towering presence of Mount Basargin. This off-grid sanctuary provides the essentials for wilderness comfort—sturdy bunks, a cozy sleeping loft, secure bear-proof storage, and an outhouse—while leaving you delightfully disconnected from modern distractions. Here, without running water or electricity, you'll discover the simple pleasure of self-sufficiency as you settle in for nights filled with glacier-cooled air and star-studded skies.
Shakes Slough 2 Cabin offers cabin lodging in a remote wilderness setting. Primitive camping might be implied due to the lack of facilities and the requirement for self-sufficiency.
Historical SignificanceSince 1963, this humble cabin has served as a gateway to one of Alaska's most precious wilderness areas. Standing sentinel at the edge of the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness, it connects modern explorers to a landscape that has sustained indigenous peoples for millennia and continues to harbor some of North America's most pristine ecosystems. This region represents a living testament to the enduring relationship between humans and the wild places that define Southeast Alaska's character.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through October, when ice releases its grip on the waterways, adventurers can access this remote hideaway by boat or floatplane. Each season paints the wilderness in different hues—from spring's awakening greens to autumn's golden farewell. Winter transforms this landscape into a crystalline wonderland, bringing heavy snowfall, bone-chilling temperatures, and howling winds that remind visitors of nature's commanding presence. December conditions can be particularly fierce, with freezing temperatures and moderate to heavy precipitation demanding respect and preparation. Smart travelers pack layers, emergency supplies, and weather-appropriate gear to fully embrace whatever Mother Nature delivers.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your door into a cathedral of towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock, where emerald ferns carpet the forest floor and wild salmonberries promise summer sweetness. The understory bursts with life—willows lean over quiet streams while alders stand guard at forest edges. But it's the panoramic views that steal your breath: massive glaciers grinding their ancient paths through granite peaks, their blue ice catching sunlight like scattered jewels. This living landscape hosts an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from lumbering brown bears fishing for salmon to sleek black bears foraging for berries, majestic moose wading through wetlands, and countless migratory shorebirds painting the sky with their seasonal journeys.
Geological RegionNestled within the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness, this cabin sits at the intersection of powerful natural forces. Here, the temperate rainforest ecosystem thrives in the moist coastal climate, while the expansive Stikine River tide flats create a dynamic environment where freshwater meets the sea. Towering above it all, glacier-clad peaks stand as monuments to the ice ages that sculpted this dramatic coastline, their rivers of ice continuing the slow work of carving tomorrow's valleys and fjords.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is located in a remote wilderness area and accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin is compact yet sufficient for up to seven occupants, with a sleeping loft and bunks.
Sites PrivacySituated in a stand of spruce trees, the cabin offers privacy and seclusion, with views of the wilderness and no immediate neighbors other than another cabin a few hundred feet away.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend bringing insect repellent due to mosquito swarms, packing sleeping bags and gear, and potentially coordinating group stays across adjacent cabins.
Best CampsitesUsers mention proximity to Shakes Slough 1 Cabin as advantageous for group planning.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
10:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 7 nights between May 1 and September 30, and 10 nights from October 1 through April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 7 people per stay.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout accommodating up to 7 individuals. Main cabin plus a bear-proof locker and outhouse.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov, app, contact center, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 change fee; cancellations incur a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee in case of late cancellations.
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
Food storage lockers
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The area offers diverse outdoor activities including wildlife viewing, fishing, boating, hunting, and exploring nearby trails and hot springs. "Hunting, exploring, wildlife viewing opportunities are endless and prove very successful," says one reviewer.
Hiking
A trail leads from Hot Springs Slough to Chief Shakes Hot Springs, located 4 miles upstream. Hiking opportunities in the surrounding wilderness are also available.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include Cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden in the river, primarily from June to October. "Cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden are in the river from June to October, but a boat is needed to reach the trout streams."Boating
Boating is recommended for exploring the Stikine River, Shakes Lake, and Glacier. "This area of the Stikine River offers plenty of places to explore by boat." A minimum tide of 14 feet is required for navigating the tide flats, and river levels should be checked beforehand.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes brown and black bears, moose, mountain goats, migratory shorebirds, and waterfowl. "Brown and black bears roam the area, and moose are sometimes seen among the willow thickets. Mountain goats can occasionally be spotted in the surrounding mountains."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Boating activities are highlighted, including the use of shallow draft boats to explore surrounding areas.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but guests must bring their own wood.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown and black bears are common; moose and mountain goats may also pose a risk. Migratory insects such as mosquitoes can be swarming during summer; insect repellents are highly recommended.
Active alertsInvasive European Green Crab (EGC) is suspected in the Tongass National Forest. Guests are advised to report sightings.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 88%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Wrangell, AK, is the nearest hub for emergency services, including hospitals and police.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 through September 30.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all their trash and food. No trash or recycling facilities are provided on-site.
Proximity to water featuresSituated next to the Stikine River and Shakes Slough. Spectacular views of nearby glaciers and access to Shakes Lake.
Common complaintsMosquito swarms are mentioned by user reviews as a significant nuisance. Accessibility is challenging due to remote location and tide constraints. Guests must bring all essentials, including water and heating oil.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK, 99929, USA.
Driving directionsThe Shakes Slough Cabins are located in the Stikine-LeConte Wilderness on the north shore of the Stikine River at the Shakes Slough entrance. From Wrangell, the cabins are 20 miles by float plane or 25 miles by shallow draft boat. Low river levels and tides affect access to the cabin. A minimum depth of 14 feet is required for navigating through the Stikine River tide flats. The river is normally ice-free May to October.
Access to the site depends on float plane or shallow draft boat travel. River conditions and tides impact accessibility, requiring a minimum tide depth of 14 feet. Seasonal challenges include ice-free conditions typically between May and October.Nearby places
Wrangell (20 miles by float plane, 25 miles by shallow draft boat).
Nearby supplies
Supplies must be acquired in Wrangell prior to departure, as the site is remote and isolated from stores or facilities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Shakes Slough 2 Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the scenic, remote location and the excellent wilderness experience provided.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praise the cabin's spaciousness, wildlife viewing, fishing, and opportunities for exploring the surrounding wilderness areas by boat. "This is a great cabin that has more than enough room for...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the presence of mosquitoes and the need for bug repellent. "Bring bug spray/repellent, it's southeast AK after all but these little mosquitoes were SWARMING us."
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing bug repellent, extra supplies, and using a skiff for easier navigation and access to nearby sites. "The tubs are only a 15-minute skiff ride away!"
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Guests note that fishing is best from June to October, and river conditions vary seasonally, affecting accessibility.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"I stayed in this cabin on two separate occasions, 13 years apart. Both were excellent remote, wilderness experiences." "Nice spot to beach the skiff right in front of the cabin." "Bring bug...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to Shakes Slough 2 Cabin highlight its cleanliness, spaciousness, and ideal location for wildlife viewing and access to nearby attractions.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility features or user reviews addressing accessibility specifically are provided.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not mentioned in the source material or user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025