Young Lake (North) Cabin
4.487 reviewsADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT, JUNEAU, AK, USA
Young Lake (North) Cabin
$35.00 - $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
Peak season rates from May 1 to September 30 are $45 per night, while non-peak season rates from October 1 to December 31 are $35 per night. These rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of Admiralty Island's untamed wilderness, North Young Lake Cabin stands as your gateway to authentic Alaskan solitude. This rustic cedar log retreat, accessible only by float plane, beckons adventurers seeking an off-grid escape where brown bears outnumber humans and pristine waters mirror ancient forests. Built to accommodate six guests on sturdy bunkbeds (bring your own sleeping gear), the cabin provides essential shelter with its oil stove, cooking facilities, and basic amenities. Here, your days unfold with endless possibilities: cast lines into Young Lake's crystal waters, traverse wilderness trails, gather wild berries under towering conifers, or simply witness nature's grand theater from your doorstep.
Young Lake (North) Cabin offers a primitive camping experience in a remote wilderness setting. The cabin provides basic lodging and amenities suited for small groups or families.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the legendary Kootznoowoo Wilderness of Tongass National Forest, this cabin serves as a living connection to Alaska's frontier heritage. The Tlingit name 'Kootznoowoo' means 'Fortress of the Bears,' honoring the island's role as home to one of the world's densest brown bear populations. This protected wilderness preserves not just pristine ecosystems but also centuries of indigenous culture and the enduring spirit of those who seek communion with untouched nature.
Weather and SeasonsAlaska's mercurial weather paints North Young Lake in dramatically different palettes throughout the year. From mid-May through November, the lake shimmers ice-free, inviting paddlers and anglers to explore its depths. Summer brings long daylight hours perfect for adventure, though seasoned visitors know that rain gear is as essential as bear spray in this temperate rainforest. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with snow and ice creating both breathtaking beauty and access challenges that test even experienced wilderness travelers.
ElevationPerched at 320 feet above sea level, the cabin occupies a sweet spot in Admiralty Island's vertical landscape. This modest elevation places you above the coastal fog yet below the harsh alpine zones, creating an ideal microclimate for exploration. The elevation provides stunning vantage points while remaining accessible, though the wilderness setting means weather can shift dramatically—a reminder that Mother Nature rules supreme in this remote corner of Alaska.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside the cabin's weathered door and find yourself immersed in one of Earth's last great temperate rainforests. Towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock create a verdant cathedral overhead, their ancient boughs filtering sunlight into ethereal beams. Just 50 feet away, Young Lake stretches before you, its waters fed by pristine glacier streams that wind through emerald muskeg meadows. In the distance, mist-shrouded peaks pierce the sky, while closer at hand, the old-growth forest harbors secrets in every moss-draped hollow—from hidden waterfalls to the well-worn paths of the island's legendary brown bears.
Geological RegionThe Kootznoowoo Wilderness encompasses a remarkable tapestry of Southeast Alaska's geological wonders. This corner of Tongass National Forest showcases the dramatic interplay between ancient glacial forces and thriving temperate rainforest. Massive spruce and hemlock trees sink their roots into soil enriched by millennia of forest succession, while glacier-carved valleys channel crystal streams through spongy muskeg wetlands. Jagged peaks frame the horizon, their exposed rock faces telling stories of tectonic upheaval and ice age sculpting that created this island paradise where wilderness reigns eternal.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility accommodations are mentioned, and the remote access by float plane suggests limited accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin can sleep up to six guests on wooden bunk beds.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers a secluded and private setting, located under a canopy of old-growth forest, 50 feet from the north end of Young Lake.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsites“Do bring bear protection and rain gear.” – John T. (User Review) Visitors are advised to bring #1 heating oil, rain gear, and safety supplies. Plan for extended stays due to weather conditions.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only site available.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum 10 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six guests per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout under tree canopy near Young Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen: May 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025. Peak season: May 1 to September 30. Non-peak season: October 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not mentioned; cabin is reservable online.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made up to 14 days before the arrival date for cabins. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. No refunds are issued for cancellations made after the check-in date begins.
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
Activities you can enjoy
The Young Lake (North) Cabin offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding Kootznoowoo Wilderness provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Guests can explore primitive trails, fish in the lake for species like cutthroat trout and coho salmon, and utilize a skiff available at the cabin for boating. The lake is ice-free from mid-May through November, making it an ideal spot for summer and fall activities. Wildlife such as bald eagles and black-tailed deer can be observed, along with occasional bear sightings during salmon runs.
Hiking
Several primitive trails are accessible from the cabin, including the Admiralty Cove-Young Lake trail, which is 4.5 miles long and relatively flat but can become strenuous in wet conditions. "Great location, under trees, next to the lake, trails north to Admiralty Cove and south to South Young Lake," one reviewer stated.Fishing
Fishing is a major attraction, with opportunities to catch cutthroat trout, coho salmon, and dolly varden in the lake. One reviewer shared their experience: "We caught salmon and trout from the stream and the lake."Boating
The cabin provides a skiff with oars for use, and visitors can bring an outboard motor (less than 10 horsepower). Personal floatation devices are required. "Good boat with decent oars," one reviewer noted.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, including bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bears. "Great cabin and wonderful location. Be ready for bears as they come close by," advised one user.Winter Activities
The cabin may be inaccessible in winter due to frozen lake surfaces, and no specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible given the availability of a skiff and the lake's setting. However, no explicit details are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Outdoor fire area available. Guests should use firewood responsibly and prevent pest infestations.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, especially during salmon runs (July-August). Rainy conditions can make trails strenuous. Visitors must prepare for emergencies and inclement weather.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4.2 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
Contact the Admiralty Island National Monument at 907-586-8800 for detailed safety precautions before travel. Emergency services are likely based in Juneau.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all trash and leftover food as there are no garbage or recycling facilities at the site. One user noted, "Pack it in-pack it out. Pretty simple."
Proximity to water featuresLocated 50 feet from Young Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention mice attracted to leftover trash and food as an issue. Campers are urged to follow the 'pack it in-pack it out' principle.
Campground Map
ADMIRALITY NATIONAL MONUMENT, JUNEAU, AK, USA
Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is by float plane. It is about a 20-minute flight from Juneau. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal. In fall, winter and early spring the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). The lake is normally ice-free from mid-May through November.
The cabin is accessible only via float plane. Inclement weather conditions can cause delays, and winter access may be difficult due to ice and snow conditions. Visitors should prepare for emergencies and bring supplies to last 2–5 days.Nearby places
Juneau is approximately a 20-minute flight away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in Juneau, which is the nearest city accessible by float plane.
Camper Reviews
4.5
7 reviews
Young Lake (North) Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the secluded and scenic nature of Young Lake (North) Cabin, with a strong emphasis on its well-maintained facilities and excellent recreational opportunities. The cabin is appreciated for its privacy and wilderness setting, though some users noted the high cost of reaching the cabin via float plane and the lack of garbage management.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the cabin for being clean and well-maintained, with highlights like "The cabin was in very good order overall," and "Great cabin and wonderful location." The opportunities...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most frequent complaints included the high cost of float plane access and issues with leftover trash from previous visitors. "Campers, please take all of your trash and leftover food," one user...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing bear protection, rain gear, and extra supplies in case of extended stays due to weather. "Bring your own oars," and "The recommendations for the amount of fuel needed were...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Users visiting in summer and fall reported the best experiences due to ice-free lake conditions and abundant wildlife. Winter access is limited, making it a less favorable time for camping.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cabin seemed dark although there were three windows, but being under the trees keeps some light out." "We hiked up from Admiralty Cove cabin after kayaking from Juneau. It is a very nice cabin...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews pertain to the main cabin site, with positive mentions of its cleanliness and views. "Nice cabin, really appreciate the fly-in cabin opportunity," one reviewer shared.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet-related experiences.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025