Cabin accommodations near Auke Bay, Alaska are scattered throughout the Tongass National Forest and managed primarily by the U.S. Forest Service. The forest cabins sit at elevations between 250 and 2,000 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45-65°F. Winter access to many cabins requires cross-country skiing or snowshoeing through deep snow, while summer trails often traverse muskegs and forested terrain.
What to do
Kayaking and boating: From Mendenhall Lake Campground, visitors can explore the lake via kayak with views of the glacier. "Explore the lake via kayak, hike the short park trails, explore the far side of the lake - this is a great spot just minutes from the Juneau Airport," notes Josiah P. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Hiking to waterfalls: Multiple trails lead to scenic waterfalls within walking distance of cabin sites. "After setting up camp you can explore the trail to get close to the glacier and see beautiful waterfalls!" recommends Sierra S. who visited Mendenhall Lake.
Wildlife observation: Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage. "We had a black bear next to our campground eating grass one evening," reports James B. at Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, highlighting the importance of wildlife awareness.
What campers like
Glacier views: Many cabins offer direct sightlines to nearby glaciers. "This beautiful site is not only spectacular but conveniently close to town," writes Sierra S. about Mendenhall Lake.
Relative privacy: Most cabin sites provide separation between camping areas. "The tent sites were nicely separated, giving you that feeling that you're further away than you really are," shares Krista R. about her experience at Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Reliable facilities: Many cabins maintain basic amenities despite their remote setting. "Clean bathrooms and big trash cans that got emptied while we were there for 4 nights," notes Bradee A. about Peterson Lake Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking through Recreation.gov or the Juneau Ranger District. "Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August," warns Josiah P. regarding Mendenhall Lake.
Heating options: Cabin heating systems vary significantly. At Blue Mussel Cabin, "Primary heat at the cabin is kerosene with an emergency woodstove," explains Josiah P. in a separate review.
Water availability: Water sources can be unreliable at many cabins. "Be sure to bring enough water for the night because the creek by the cabin is currently dried up," advises Stephanie S. about Blue Mussel Cabin.
Cell service limitations: Communication options are restricted at most cabins. "Absolutely no cell service," reports James B. about Eagle Beach, with similar conditions at most forest cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Choose accessible cabins: For families with younger children, select cabins with shorter approach trails. "It was a wonderful campground! Right on the lake overlooking the Mendenhall Glacier. The bugs are manageable. The campground is clean and well organized," recommends Angie W. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Pack extra supplies: Family groups should bring additional provisions. "This campground has one site with a picnic table and a fire ring. However you can camp anywhere that there is parking," notes Tanya B. about Peterson Lake Campground, highlighting the need for self-sufficiency.
Bear safety education: Teach children proper wilderness safety protocols. "Great place for the family, bears do frequent the area so keep site clean," advises James L. from Mendenhall Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most forest cabin areas lack RV hookups or have size restrictions. "There are some sites not completely in the trees. We were able to get good solar and Starlink service," shares James B. about Eagle Beach options.
Dump station planning: No dump stations exist at most cabin sites. "There is no trash service. No dump site," continues James B. about Eagle Beach facilities.
Weather considerations: RV travelers should monitor road conditions, especially in shoulder seasons. "We were in Juneau with our pickup camper for a couple of weeks. We stayed three nights in the campground. $20 per night," adds James B., providing cost information for budgeting.
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