Turner Lake East Cabin
04 reviewsJuneau Ranger District, 8465 OLD DAIRY RD.
Turner Lake East 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
Nightly recreation use fee for Turner Lake East Cabin is $45. This does not include potential taxes or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness of Turner Lake East Cabin, where your adventure begins with a breathtaking float plane journey over the vast Tongass National Forest. This secluded sanctuary rewards intrepid travelers with panoramic lake views, intimate wildlife encounters, and the rare opportunity to disconnect completely from the modern world. Whether you're casting a line into the pristine waters, tracking wildlife through ancient forests, or simply absorbing the profound silence of Alaska's backcountry, this remote cabin serves as your gateway to authentic wilderness immersion.
Turner Lake East Cabin represents a primitive, remote camping opportunity, catering to those seeking solitude and outdoor recreation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of a temperate rainforest climate where nature's moods paint an ever-changing canvas. From fall through early spring, embrace the cozy cabin life as rain drums on the roof and mist weaves through the forest canopy, creating an atmospheric retreat perfect for reflection and indoor relaxation. Summer transforms the landscape into a verdant paradise, offering longer days, gentler weather, and ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. Pack layers and rain gear year-round to fully enjoy this dynamic environment where weather becomes part of the adventure.
ElevationNestled at the tranquil shores of Turner Lake, the cabin sits cradled within a dramatic amphitheater of towering peaks that rise majestically from the water's edge, creating an intimate yet awe-inspiring setting that makes you feel both sheltered and humbled by nature's grandeur.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be mesmerized by a landscape that seems pulled from a fantasy novel—silver ribbons of waterfalls plunge from moss-draped cliffs directly into Turner Lake's mirror-like surface, while ancient hanging glaciers cling to distant peaks like frozen rivers suspended in time. The surrounding temperate rainforest creates a living cathedral of towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock, where black bears forage along the shoreline, mountain goats navigate impossible cliff faces, and waterfowl paint graceful patterns across the sky. Every window frames a masterpiece, and every trail leads to wonder.
Geological RegionDeep within the heart of the Tongass National Forest—America's largest temperate rainforest—this remarkable landscape tells a story written in stone and ice. Carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by countless centuries of rainfall, the dramatic topography features sheer mountain walls, hanging valleys adorned with glaciers, and countless waterfalls that have carved their signatures into the bedrock. This living geological museum showcases the powerful forces that continue to sculpt Southeast Alaska's legendary wilderness.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 14 ft x 16 ft and can accommodate six people.
Sites PrivacyThe site is located in remote, brushy terrain, offering significant privacy from other campers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests are encouraged to bring dry firewood, fuel oil, bug nets, and a motor for the skiff to explore Turner Lake fully.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin accommodates up to 6 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout on relatively flat and brushy terrain.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Turner Lake is typically not ice-free until June, limiting accessibility during colder months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; site is reservable only and must be booked in advance.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies to cabins and late cancellations within 14 days of arrival will forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations made on the scheduled check-in day.
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
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Turner Lake East Cabin offers a range of outdoor activities that take advantage of its remote and scenic location. Key activities include fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and hunting. Visitors can also enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding mountain cliffs, waterfalls, and hanging glaciers.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, with cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon inhabiting Turner Lake. However, one user mentioned that they did not catch any fish during their stay.Boating
A skiff with oars is provided at the cabin for guests to explore Turner Lake. Guests must bring their own flotation devices and have the option to attach a small outboard motor to the skiff. One user review suggested that bringing a small motor is particularly helpful for fully exploring the lake.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to bears, mountain goats, and a variety of waterfowl, making it an excellent location for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
In winter and early spring, the area poses a high avalanche danger and may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surfaces, limiting activities.Water Sports
Boating is the primary water activity, with guests using the provided skiff or small motors to explore Turner Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but guests must bring their own dry firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh avalanche danger during winter and early spring. Remote location with risks such as wildlife encounters and extreme weather.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 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
Emergency services are available in Juneau, Alaska, including hospitals, police stations, and the Juneau Ranger District.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (Year-round peak season pricing applies).
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash. There is no on-site trash or recycling collection.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is situated directly on the bank of Turner Lake, offering immediate access to water-based recreational activities.
Common complaintsMosquito and biting fly infestations; wet conditions make it difficult to start campfires without dry wood.
Campground Map
Juneau Ranger District, 8465 OLD DAIRY RD.
Driving directionsThe cabin is located 24 miles east of Juneau, Alaska, at the east end of Turner Lake. Access by float plane only. In fall, winter and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Guests are advised to contact the Juneau Ranger District at (907) 586-8800 to verify conditions. Turner Lake is typically not ice-free until June.
Accessible only by float plane. Seasonal limitations include frozen lake conditions in fall, winter, and early spring.Nearby places
Juneau - 24 miles east.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as food, fuel, and camping essentials can be procured in Juneau, Alaska.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Turner Lake East Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The cabin generally receives positive reviews, with visitors praising its scenic location and clean facilities. However, challenges such as wet firewood, mosquitoes, and the need to bring essential supplies were commonly reported.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests highlighted the scenic views, including the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and hanging glaciers. The cabin's cleanliness and the availability of a skiff for lake exploration were also...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often focused on the abundance of mosquitoes and biting flies during warmer months. Other issues included challenges in finding dry firewood and the need to bring heating oil. One review...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring fuel oil and dry firewood, as everything in the area is wet.
- Mosquito nets and repellents are highly recommended due to significant insect activity.
- Consider bringing an outboard motor...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention mosquitoes and wet conditions, while winter reviews highlight the potential for inaccessibility due to frozen lake surfaces.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Turner lake is beautiful! Although the cabin didn’t have any close trails to go to, it was still enjoyable." – CARLY N
"Bring fuel oil, firewood and bug nets." – MARK D
"Cabin was clean and most...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Multiple reviews focused on the challenges and benefits of staying at the Turner Lake East Cabin (site: J10, Loop: AREA TURNER LAKE (EAST) CABIN).
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025