Wilson View Cabin
01 review, , , KETCHIKAN/MISTY, AK, USA
Wilson View Cabin
$45.00 - $60.00 / 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
Rates are $60 during peak season (May 1 - September 30) and $45 during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31). Additional fees include a $10 change fee, $10 cancellation fee, and penalties for late cancellations and no-shows.
About this campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness of Alaska at Wilson View Cabin, where the only way in is by float plane and the only sounds are those of nature itself. Perched on the pristine shores of Wilson Lake deep within Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, this remote sanctuary offers adventurous souls a rare opportunity to disconnect from civilization and immerse themselves in one of America's last great frontiers. While amenities are purposefully minimal, what the cabin lacks in modern conveniences it more than makes up for in raw, breathtaking beauty and unparalleled access to wilderness adventures.
The campground accommodates visitors in a primitive cabin setup, emphasizing self-reliance and wilderness living. Specific details about other types of camping, such as group or tent sites, are not provided.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Wilson View Cabin places you at the heart of Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, a landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers over millennia. This protected wilderness stands as a testament to the raw power of ice and time, preserving ecosystems that have remained largely unchanged since the last ice age. The monument serves as both a geological time capsule and a living laboratory of ecological resilience.
Weather and SeasonsThe magic of Wilson View Cabin unfolds from May through September, when Alaska's wilderness awakens in full splendor. Summer days bring comfortable temperatures hovering between 44°F and 54°F, perfect for exploration without the extreme cold. Be prepared for nature's moods—gentle winds often dance across the lake while frequent rainfall keeps the landscape lush and vibrant. As winter approaches, Wilson Lake transforms into a frozen wonderland, making float plane access impossible but creating an entirely different kind of beauty for those who witness it.
ElevationNestled at lake level within the dramatic vertical landscape of Misty Fjords, the cabin offers intimate access to both water and mountain environments.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to mirror-like reflections of towering peaks on Wilson Lake's glassy surface, where ancient glaciers once carved their masterpiece into the landscape. Dense evergreen forests cascade down rugged mountainsides, creating a emerald tapestry that stretches as far as the eye can see. This pristine wilderness serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—watch for sure-footed mountain goats navigating impossible cliffs, graceful Sitka black-tailed deer emerging from morning mists, and both black and brown bears fishing along the shoreline. Every view from the cabin frames a postcard-perfect scene of untamed Alaska.
Geological RegionWilson View Cabin sits within the awe-inspiring Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness, where the artistry of ancient glaciers is written across every peak and valley. This dramatic landscape showcases nature's sculpture gallery—deep glacial lakes reflecting knife-edge ridges, vertical granite cliffs plunging into emerald waters, and dense evergreen forests clinging to steep mountainsides. The region stands as one of the most spectacular examples of glacial carving in North America, offering visitors a front-row seat to geological history spanning millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned, and the remote nature of the cabin likely limits accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12x14 ft., accommodating up to six individuals.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is in a remote wilderness area, ensuring high levels of privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring life jackets for boating, adequate rain gear, firewood, and supplies for a self-sufficient stay.
Best CampsitesThe Wilson View Cabin is the sole camping facility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
6guests permitted per cabin reservation.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin layout includes 2 single bunks, 2 double bunks, a table, benches, cooking counter, and small woodstove.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though accessibility varies seasonally due to frozen lake surfaces.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are allowed, but walk-up availability is null due to the remote nature of the cabin.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before arrival. A $10 fee applies for cancellations, and cancellations within 14 days of check-in will also forfeit the first night's 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
Food storage lockers
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wilson View Cabin offers diverse wilderness activities for adventurous visitors. Fishing is a highlight, with Wilson Lake providing excellent opportunities for catching cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon. Wildlife viewing in this pristine wilderness includes mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer, black bears, brown bears, and a variety of bird species. A 14-foot aluminum skiff allows exploration of the lake, though visitors must bring their own life jackets.
Fishing
The lake outlet is particularly noted for its excellent fishing opportunities, with cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon being popular catches. User review: 'Great time. Caught over 100 cut throat trout.'Boating
A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided, enabling visitors to row around the lake. Life jackets are not provided and must be brought by visitors.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife includes mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer, black bears, and brown bears. Birds are also commonly seen in the area.Winter Activities
Limited accessibility during winter due to frozen lake surfaces. Float planes cannot land, and visitors are encouraged to contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for winter-specific updates.Water Sports
Boating using the provided aluminum skiff is the main water activity. Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Bring firewood or biobricks as supplies are not guaranteed. Use the provided small woodstove responsibly.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with black and brown bears, cold weather, and isolation due to poor weather conditions.
Active alertsSeasonal advisories related to frozen lake surfaces affecting accessibility are issued by the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 66%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.3 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
Contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for emergency information. Other specific services are unavailable.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash, gear, and food. No structured trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Wilson Lake, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsNo electricity or plumbing, reliance on float planes, seasonal access limitations, and the need for visitors to bring all amenities including drinking water and firewood.
Hostnull
Campground Map
, , , KETCHIKAN/MISTY, AK, USA
Driving directionsApproximately 44 miles east of Ketchikan on the mainland, north of Wilson Arm. Cabin is located at the north end of Wilson Lake. Accessible by float plane only. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. Refer to USGS map Ketchikan B-2 and C-2. In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land).
Accessible only by float plane. Helicopter access is prohibited due to its location in a designated wilderness area. Seasonal accessibility issues may occur during periods of frozen lake surfaces.Nearby places
Ketchikan (44 miles east, accessible by float plane)
Nearby supplies
Visitors must bring their own supplies including food, water, and firewood as there are no nearby facilities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Wilson View Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews emphasize the excellent fishing opportunities at Wilson Lake, the primitive nature of the cabin, and the remoteness of the location.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Top highlights include world-class fishing experiences, the beautiful and secluded wilderness setting, and the sturdy cabin structure.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific complaints are noted in the user review.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are encouraged to bring life jackets for boating, ample firewood, and all other supplies needed to ensure a successful stay. Cleaning the cabin and packing out trash is also emphasized.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter accessibility can be challenging due to frozen lake surfaces, making float plane landings impossible. Summers are ideal for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Great time. Caught over 100 cut throat trout.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No site-specific feedback beyond the general positive sentiment about the cabin and lake.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025