West Point Cabin
4.289 reviewsPO BOX 1328, PETERSBURG, AK 99833, USA
West Point Cabin
$35.00 - $50.00 / 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
Peak season rates (April 29 to September 28): $50 per night for cabin (nonelectric). Non-peak season rates (September 29 to December 31): $35 per night for cabin (nonelectric).
About this campground
Tucked away near the pristine mouth of Portage Bay on Kupreanof Island, West Point Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. This peaceful retreat serves as your gateway to endless outdoor pursuits—cast your line into teeming waters, navigate scenic waterways by boat, witness majestic whales breaching in the distance, or trek through untouched landscapes. Whether you're tracking game through ancient forests or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Southeast Alaska, this cabin offers the perfect basecamp for your island adventures.
West Point Cabin caters primarily to remote cabin lodging and does not include traditional camping options such as tent or RV setups.
Historical SignificanceBuilt in 1994 with thoughtful accessibility in mind, this barrier-free modified A-frame cabin stands as a testament to making Alaska's wilderness accessible to all adventurers. More than just shelter, West Point Cabin offers a front-row seat to one of nature's most spectacular shows—the annual whale migrations through Fredrick Sound. Here, visitors become part of a continuing story of human connection with the Alaskan wilderness, experiencing the same awe-inspiring landscapes and wildlife encounters that have drawn people to these remote shores for generations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic moods of coastal Alaska throughout the seasons at West Point. Early fall brings dramatic weather patterns, with temperatures hovering between a crisp 43°F and a mild 52°F during Week 40, accompanied by the rhythmic percussion of rain on the cabin roof and moderate winds whistling through the forest. Summer visitors are rewarded with clearer skies and warmer days perfect for extended outdoor explorations, while autumn transforms the landscape with heavier rainfall that feeds the lush temperate rainforest and creates countless waterfalls cascading down nearby slopes.
ElevationPerched at sea level where land meets sea, the cabin commands breathtaking panoramic views across the shimmering waters of Fredrick Sound and the protected embrace of Portage Bay. This waterfront position places you at the intersection of marine and terrestrial worlds, where tides dictate the rhythm of life and mountain-backed seascapes create an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a world where ancient spruce and hemlock sentinels tower overhead, their mossy trunks telling stories of centuries past. The cabin sits amid flat, accessible terrain that gently transitions to expansive gravel beaches—perfect natural highways for beachcombing adventures at low tide. This diverse ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters: black bears forage along the shoreline, Sitka black-tailed deer emerge from forest shadows, waterfowl fill the air with their calls, and magnificent whales patrol the deep waters of Fredrick Sound just offshore.
Geological RegionWest Point Cabin rests on the gentle coastal plain where the temperate rainforest meets the sea, characterized by level terrain carpeted in a rich tapestry of spruce and hemlock. The area's geology has created vast stretches of gravel beach that invite exploration during minus tides, revealing tide pools teeming with marine life. This unique position along Fredrick Sound places visitors at the heart of the Alexander Archipelago's complex island geography, where glacial history has carved a landscape of protected bays, deep channels, and forest-clad shores.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include a wooden access walkway, outhouse, and a wheelchair ramp located on the beach. The cabin has been designed to meet barrier-free standards.
Sites SizeThe site accommodates up to seven people and features a spacious deck, loft sleeping arrangement, and wooden bunks.
Sites PrivacyThe West Point Cabin is located in a remote area, offering a high level of privacy due to its secluded nature and distance from urban centers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended to bring your own drinking water and fire-starting materials due to inconsistent firewood supply and water quality.
Best CampsitesWest Point Cabin (only site available).
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- 7consecutive nights between May 1 and September 30
- 10 consecutive nights between October 1 and April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 7 people per cabin
Groups
- Group camping sites are not available
- the cabin accommodates up to seven individuals.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle modified A-frame structure with wooden access walkway, outhouse, wooden bunks, sleeping loft, table, benches, cooking counter, wood stove, deck, and wheelchair ramp.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 29 to December 31
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through the Recreation.gov website or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellation penalties include forfeiting the first night's fee for cancellations made less than 14 days prior to arrival for cabins. No refunds for cancellations on the day of check-in.
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
West Point Cabin offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, whale-watching, and hunting, all amidst scenic surroundings. The gravel beach adjacent to the cabin is excellent for hiking and exploring.
Hiking
The gravel beaches around the cabin provide excellent hiking opportunities, complemented by views of Frederick Sound and Portage Bay.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are seasonal, with king salmon available in May and June, coho salmon from August to September, and halibut in Frederick Sound. Anglers should be aware of state and federal fishing regulations.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, with strong currents and occasional high winds requiring careful anchoring. A mooring buoy is provided at the cabin.Wildlife viewing
Frederick Sound is a primary feeding ground for humpback whales, offering excellent whale-watching opportunities. Wildlife in the area also includes black bears, deer, and waterfowl.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is supplied for heating the cabin only. Outdoor campfires require dead and down wood from the forest.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) recorded in the area. Visitors must ensure proper food storage to prevent wildlife issues. Strong currents and occasional high winds require secure anchoring for boats.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Nearest emergency services are located in Petersburg, Alaska.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 29 to September 28
Trash and recyclingGuests are responsible for packing out all garbage and food upon departure. Recycling facilities are not mentioned, and trash disposal is self-managed by campers.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Fredrick Sound and Portage Bay. Nearest freshwater source is a creek 0.5 miles west of the cabin.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention water quality issues at the nearby creek and insufficient firewood supply. Others highlight difficulties accessing the cabin during storms.
HostManaged by the Petersburg Ranger District, reachable at (907) 772-3871.
Campground Map
PO BOX 1328, PETERSBURG, AK 99833, USA
Driving directionsThe West Point Cabin is located near the mouth of Portage Bay on Kupreanof Island. It is situated west of West Point, just around the point from Fredrick Sound. It is 18 miles by float plane or 24 miles by boat from Petersburg. The cabin can be found on USGS topographic maps Sumdum A4, Sumdum A5, Petersburg D4 and Petersburg D5. Float plane or boat access can only occur at certain stages of the tide. Please check current conditions prior to your trip.
Accessible only by float plane or boat. Access depends on tidal stages; float planes and boats must check conditions before travel.Nearby places
Petersburg: 18 miles by float plane, 24 miles by boat
Nearby supplies
Nearest supplies for groceries, camping gear, and fuel are in Petersburg, Alaska.
Camper Reviews
4.3
9 reviews
West Point Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users rate the West Point Cabin favorably, with an average sentiment score of 4.0. Positive feedback focuses on the scenic location, cleanliness, and amenities, while some complaints mention limited firewood supply and challenging access due to weather conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests frequently highlight the cabin's cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and scenic surroundings. Reviewers particularly appreciate the mooring buoy and wildlife sightings.
Based on 9 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues reported by users include limited firewood supply and challenging access due to severe weather or tides.
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing potable water due to the poor quality of water from the nearby creek and being prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. Carrying essential items like fire starter and...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Positive reviews are prevalent during the warmer months, with guests enjoying fishing, whale-watching, and boating. However, access challenges due to rough weather conditions are more frequent during...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Nice clean quiet cabin in a remote area. Water source is within walking distance but quality is not good. Better bring own drinking water.' - skoo00 (2022-09-29) 2. 'Hunting, fishing, crabbing...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
P26 is frequently mentioned in user reviews, with largely positive feedback concerning its cleanliness, wildlife sightings, and available amenities.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address experiences with the cabin's accessibility features.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related policies or experiences are not mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025