Virginia Lake Cabin
4.826 reviewsP.O. BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK 99929, USA
Virginia 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
The cabin's nightly rate is $45, regardless of the season. There are no discounts for Alaska cabin rentals with Golden Age and Golden Passports.
About this campground
Escape to Virginia Lake Cabin, a secluded wilderness retreat nestled deep within the pristine Tongass National Forest. This remote sanctuary, reachable only by floatplane or by portaging your watercraft across untouched terrain, promises an authentic Alaskan adventure. Here, surrounded by towering evergreens and crystalline waters, you'll discover world-class fishing opportunities, prime hunting grounds, and miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through one of America's last great temperate rainforests.
Virginia Lake Cabin provides rustic cabin accommodations suitable for a remote getaway on a scenic lake. No options for tent camping, RV camping, or group camping are mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time along the fascinating Mill Creek Trail, a 0.9-mile journey through Alaska's industrial heritage. This historic pathway reveals remnants of the region's mining boom era, where prospectors once sought their fortunes in these remote mountains. An abandoned sawmill stands as a weathered monument to the hardy souls who carved out a living from this wilderness, offering visitors a tangible connection to the pioneers who first recognized the area's abundant natural resources.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of Alaska's dynamic weather patterns at Virginia Lake, where crisp, cold air mingles with morning mists rising from the water. The region's climate alternates between brilliant clear days that showcase stunning mountain vistas and dramatic overcast skies that blanket the forest in mystical fog. Regular rainfall feeds the lush rainforest ecosystem and causes the lake's water levels to ebb and flow with nature's rhythm. Winter transforms this paradise into a snow-dusted wonderland, though floatplane access becomes limited when ice claims the lake's surface.
ElevationPerched at a gentle elevation of 105 feet above sea level, the cabin sits in perfect harmony with the surrounding landscape, offering easy access to both shoreline adventures and forest exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape painted with nature's most dramatic brushstrokes. Ancient Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and aromatic cedar trees form a living cathedral around the cabin, their moss-draped branches creating a verdant canopy overhead. Expansive meadows burst with wildflowers in season, providing striking contrast to the towering mountains that rise sharply from the forest floor. A pristine sandy beach beckons along the lake's edge, where you might spot brown bears fishing for salmon, black bears foraging in the underbrush, or majestic moose wading through shallow waters at dawn.
Geological RegionVirginia Lake Cabin rests within one of Earth's most spectacular temperate rainforest ecosystems, where relatively flat terrain creates an accessible wilderness oasis amid dramatically steep mountain peaks. This coastal rainforest thrives in the maritime climate, with massive Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and cedar trees forming dense stands that have flourished here for centuries. The interplay between the tranquil lake, sandy shoreline, and surrounding forest creates a uniquely diverse habitat that supports an extraordinary array of plant and animal life, making this corner of the Tongass a true ecological treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin includes a wheelchair-friendly deck and walkway. However, accessibility is contingent on the seasonal floatplane dock being installed. Contact the Wrangell Ranger District at 907-874-2323 for dock status.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12-by-14 feet with an additional 10-by-8 foot section.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a remote area featuring flat land, large meadows, and surrounding rainforest. Privacy is likely high due to its secluded location.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring firewood, #1 stove oil, splitting wedges, and a maul for wood preparation. Carry flotation devices for boating and ensure the skiff is properly secured before departure.
Best CampsitesVirginia Lake Cabin is the sole campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is contingent on floatplane schedules.
Check-out
Check-out policies align with departure arrangements by floatplane.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 consecutive nights from May 1 to September 30 and 10 consecutive days from October 1 to April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 8 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with accessible deck and outhouse connected by a walkway.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - December 31; peak season May 1 - September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov up to 180 days in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is indicated; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations within 14 days of check-in. No-show customers forfeit the first night's fees and will be charged a $20 no-show 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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Virginia Lake Cabin offers a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hunting, paddling, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can fish for cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and sockeye salmon in season. The .9-mile Mill Creek Trail provides opportunities for hiking and exploring historical remnants like an old sawmill. Wildlife such as brown and black bears, moose, and numerous bird species can be observed. Paddling around the lake and exploring side creeks is an option, although the provided skiff has limitations.
Hiking
Hiking options include the .9-mile Mill Creek Trail, accessible by paddling across the lake to the outlet. The trail features historical mining and sawmill remnants and fishing opportunities. Note that no developed trail connects the end of Mill Creek Trail to the cabin.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant. Anglers can catch cutthroat trout and Dolly Varden from May to October, and sockeye salmon in August and September. A 14' skiff with oars is provided, but visitors must bring flotation devices and secure the skiff after use.Boating
Boating is possible with the provided 14' skiff. Users have noted the skiff may require repair. Bringing a small outboard motor is recommended to fully explore the lake.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to brown and black bears, moose, and numerous bird species. Wildlife encounters are common, as noted in user reviews, including one remarkable instance of a juvenile moose being chased by a juvenile brown bear near the dock.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing are possible when the lake freezes. A user mentioned planning a winter snowshoe trip.Water Sports
Paddling is popular, with opportunities to explore side creeks along the south shore of the lake. Kayaks are more suited for shallow areas than the provided skiff.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in the designated campfire ring; firewood must be supplied by visitors.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is home to brown and black bears, requiring visitors to be bear-aware. Additionally, the skiff provided has leaks, and heavy rainfall can cause significant changes in lake levels.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.5 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
The Wrangell Ranger District can be contacted at 907-874-2323 for emergencies. It's recommended that visitors prepare for remote conditions and self-sufficiency.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available. Visitors are required to pack out all garbage and any other waste.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is located directly on Virginia Lake, offering access to its sandy beach and providing opportunities for boating and fishing.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include issues with the skiff's condition (leaks) and the challenging nature of splitting wood due to knots and twisted grain.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 51, WRANGELL, AK 99929, USA
Driving directionsThe cabin is on the east end of Virginia Lake, about 10 miles east of Wrangell. The lake is on the mainland above Eastern Passage. The cabin is accessible by float plane, and Virginia Lake is typically ice-free May to October. In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surfaces (float planes cannot land). Visitors must contact the Wrangell Ranger District at (907) 874-2323 for information prior to making reservations during these periods.
The site is accessible only by float plane or through portaging and paddling watercraft. Seasonal access challenges include frozen lake surfaces in colder months, which make floatplane landings impossible. There is no developed trail from the end of Mill Creek Trail at the Virginia Lake outlet to the cabin.Nearby places
Wrangell is approximately 10 miles away
travel time is dependent on floatplane arrangements or portaging.
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including firewood, food, and water, need to be brought by visitors as there are no grocery or fuel services nearby. Wrangell, located 10 miles away, is the nearest population center for supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.8
6 reviews
Virginia Lake Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Virginia Lake Cabin highlight its cleanliness, functional amenities, and breathtaking natural surroundings. Reviewers appreciated its peaceful and remote setting but noted maintenance concerns like the cabin floor and leaky skiff. Wildlife sightings are a frequent highlight.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the cabin's cleanliness, ample wood supply for the stove, stunning views of Virginia Lake, and opportunities to explore side creeks by kayak. The remote, peaceful setting is...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the cabin floor needing refinishing, the skiff requiring repair, challenging access due to undergrowth and dock absence, and knotty firewood being difficult to split.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring splitting wedges and a maul for firewood. Carry a small outboard motor for better lake exploration. Treat water from the stream before drinking. Contact the Wrangell Ranger District for dock...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews praise the cabin's accessibility via floatplane and the pleasant weather. Winter reviews focus on snowshoeing and the possibility of lake freezing. Rainy conditions can cause the lake...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The view of the lake is world class.' - Bruce E. 2. 'Virginia Lake and the USFS cabin never disappoint!' - Christina H. 3. 'We had the incredible experience of watching a juvenile moose being...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific mentions of campsite W13 from multiple users highlight its scenic views, cleanliness, and organized layout.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility depends on the seasonal floatplane dock, limiting wheelchair access when not installed. Contact the Wrangell Ranger District for updates.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025