Situk Lake Cabin
02 reviewsYAKUTAT RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, P.O. BOX 327
Situk Lake Cabin
$45.00 - $45.00 / 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 are $45 per night during peak season (June 1 to December 31, 2025). Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Deep within the untamed Russell Fjord Wilderness, Situk Lake Cabin awaits adventurous souls seeking an authentic Alaskan escape. This remote sanctuary, nestled 14 miles northeast of Yakutat, promises a journey back to simpler times where the rhythm of nature sets the pace. Whether you arrive by floatplane touching down on pristine waters or brave the challenging 3-mile wet trail that tests your determination, you'll discover a rustic haven where modern distractions fade away. While the cabin provides essential shelter and basic comforts, it intentionally lacks electricity, running water, and heating oil—inviting you to embrace the raw beauty of wilderness living while fishing pristine waters, exploring ancient trails, and encountering Alaska's remarkable wildlife in their natural habitat.
Situk Lake Cabin is a remote lodging option primarily catering to primitive camping enthusiasts who seek a wilderness experience.
Historical SignificanceSituk Lake Cabin stands as a gateway to the Russell Fjord Wilderness, one of Alaska's most treasured and protected landscapes. This pristine ecosystem has remained virtually unchanged for centuries, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the natural world as it existed long before modern development. The wilderness designation ensures that future generations will continue to experience this remarkable landscape in its pure, unaltered state—a living museum of Pacific Northwest coastal ecology where ancient forests meet pristine waters.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal personality at Situk Lake, where winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland of heavy snow and arctic temperatures. During the coldest months, expect the mercury to hover between a brisk 23°F and 29°F, with moderate winds carrying mixed precipitation across the wilderness. But don't let winter's intensity deter you—the cabin's peak season stretches from June through December, when warmer temperatures unlock the region's full splendor. Summer visitors are rewarded with extended daylight hours perfect for midnight fishing expeditions, while autumn paints the forest in golden hues and brings crisp, clear days ideal for wildlife watching.
ElevationSet upon gentle, level ground that makes exploration accessible to adventurers of all abilities, the cabin's flat terrain offers a welcoming respite from Alaska's often challenging topography. This unique positioning creates an ideal basecamp for both leisurely lakeside strolls and more ambitious wilderness expeditions, allowing visitors to choose their own adventure without the immediate demands of steep climbs or treacherous descents.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the soft whisper of wind through towering old-growth Sitka spruce, their ancient branches creating a natural cathedral around your wilderness home. The cabin's privileged position offers front-row seats to nature's grandest theater—on clear days, the mighty Mount St. Elias pierces the sky, its snow-capped summit reflecting in Situk Lake's mirror-like surface. A shallow beach invites morning contemplation and afternoon exploration, while mysterious muskeg trails wind through the forest, their spongy paths leading to hidden streams where salmon run and secrets of the wilderness slowly reveal themselves. This is a landscape that changes with every shift of light, from misty dawn revelations to the ethereal glow of extended northern sunsets.
Geological RegionThe Russell Fjord Wilderness showcases nature's architectural mastery, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable diversity. Here, the cabin sits cradled by magnificent old-growth Sitka spruce forests that have stood sentinel for centuries, their roots anchored in the relatively flat terrain that characterizes the Situk Lake basin. This unique geological setting creates a rare pocket of accessibility within Alaska's typically rugged coastline, where the gentle topography allows the forest to flourish in its full glory while providing visitors with an intimate connection to one of North America's last great temperate rainforests.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin and its surrounding facilities are relatively remote and may require hiking or floatplane access. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 16x12 feet and includes four single bunks.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is surrounded by old-growth Sitka spruce forest and offers a secluded experience, although occasional visits by wildlife such as bears could intrude on privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring waders for wet trail conditions and flotation devices for canoeing on Situk Lake.
Best CampsitesSituk Lake Cabin is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specific time provided.
Check-out
No specific time provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 10 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin sleeps four people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin, pan-abode style.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season is June 1 to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided regarding walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the day of check-in, subject to a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than 14 days before arrival. Late cancellations for one-night reservations will forfeit the entire amount paid.
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
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Situk Lake Cabin can engage in a variety of recreational activities. Fishing is a highlight, with opportunities to catch king, sockeye, coho, and pink salmon, as well as steelhead, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden. For hikers, the Mountain Lake Trail offers a 4-mile round trip with scenic views of streams, lakes, old-growth Sitka spruce, and access to the Brabazon Mountains and Mountain Lake. Hunting is permitted during designated seasons with the appropriate permits. Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, with regular sightings of brown and black bears, moose, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and nesting waterfowl. Additionally, visitors can use skiffs with oars provided at the cabin to explore the lake.
Hiking
The Mountain Lake Trail starts at the cabin and provides a 4-mile round trip hike. It features numerous mountain streams and lakes, old-growth Sitka spruce, and access to the Brabazon Mountains and Mountain Lake.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are outstanding, with species such as king, sockeye, coho, and pink salmon, steelhead, rainbow trout, and Dolly Varden available in Situk Lake.Boating
Visitors have access to skiffs with oars provided at the cabin. Proper flotation devices must be brought by visitors. Canoeing to the Situk river outlet is highly recommended by reviewers.Wildlife viewing
Local wildlife includes brown and black bears, moose, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, and a variety of nesting waterfowl. Wildlife viewing is excellent and recommended.Winter Activities
The cabin is open year-round, but specific winter activities such as snowshoeing or skiing are not mentioned.Water Sports
Visitors can engage in canoeing and use skiffs provided at the cabin to explore the lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Visitors must bring their own fire starter and adhere to firewood rules to prevent pest spread.
Hazards
General hazardsBrown and black bears are common in the area. Visitors should practice bear safety and pack out all food and trash.
Weather forecast
60
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 85%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.8 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
Yakutat Ranger District Office, located in Yakutat (14 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingCampers are expected to pack out all trash and clean the cabin before departure. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is situated on Situk Lake with a shallow beach and small streams nearby.
Common complaintsTrail conditions are wet and require waders. Limited amenities at the cabin may require visitors to bring extensive supplies.
HostYakutat Ranger District Office provides information. Contact at (907) 784-3359.
Campground Map
YAKUTAT RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, P.O. BOX 327
Driving directionsThe cabin is located 14 miles northeast of Yakutat on the eastern shore of Situk Lake. Access is by trail or floatplane. Please contact the Yakutat Ranger District for information at (907) 784-3359 prior to making reservations during these periods. The Situk Lake Trail starts at the end of East Gate Road and is 3 miles to the cabin. The trail can be very wet.
Access is by trail or floatplane. The Situk Lake Trail can be very wet, requiring visitors to bring appropriate gear.Nearby places
Yakutat (14 miles northeast)
Nearby supplies
Yakutat Ranger District Office, 14 miles away, offers limited supplies. Visitors should bring all essential amenities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Situk Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Situk Lake Cabin are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the cozy cabin, excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities, and well-maintained trails. The remote nature of the cabin appeals to visitors seeking solitude and a wilderness experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive highlights include the cozy and well-maintained cabin, abundant fishing opportunities, improved canoe facilities, and scenic trails.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
No significant complaints are noted in the reviews. Some visitors recommend bringing additional gear, such as waders, for a better experience.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing waders for exploring trails and lakes, treating or boiling water from the lake, and utilizing the spring near the cabin for clean water.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The cabin is popular year-round. During the summer, fishing is highly recommended, while wildlife viewing is a highlight throughout the year.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Lovely stay at Situk lake, the cabin was cozy. We were able to take the canoe out a couple of times too! Wished I would have brought waders to head up to Mountain Lake." - Christine C
"Oil heater...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users specifically praise site Y01 for its cozy accommodations, scenic location, and excellent access to activities.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features and experiences for individuals with disabilities are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No information about pet policies or pet owner experiences is provided in the user reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025