Camping opportunities near Craig, Alaska center around rustic cabin rentals operated by the U.S. Forest Service on Prince of Wales Island. Most sites require advance planning due to their remote nature and limited accessibility. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with high precipitation throughout the year, making summer months the most popular time to visit this temperate rainforest environment.
What to do
Fishing access: Harris River Campground provides excellent freshwater fishing opportunities directly from the campsite. Katie K. reported, "Bring your fishing pole! The river is gorgeous. Come here, catch some fish, and go relax."
Beach exploration: The beaches surrounding Point Amargura Cabin offer extensive shoreline for beachcombing. Visitor Shawna M. appreciated that the cabin includes a "hammock for relaxation and plenty of beach to comb!"
Crabbing: Twelvemile Cabin offers productive crabbing opportunities right from the shore. According to Katie R., you can enjoy "great crabbing in bay directly in front of cabin. All you need is a Canoe and a crab pot!"
What campers like
Privacy: The boat-access requirement for many cabins ensures seclusion and tranquility. At Control Lake Cabin, Shawna M. noted, "You have to take a boat (small rowboat) from the road to the cabin. It's secluded and great for a group of people to get away."
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. Katie K. advises visitors to Twelvemile Cabin to "make sure you look UP because the night sky is amazing."
Outdoor gathering spaces: Some cabins feature additional outdoor amenities for socializing. Barbara F. appreciated that Twelvemile Cabin has an "outdoor fire ring and bench" which she called "a bonus!"
What you should know
Transportation requirements: Most cabins require specific transportation planning. Point Amargura Cabin is "only accessible by boat, so you can see visitors coming," according to Shawna M.
Accessibility considerations: Some cabins have been designed with accessibility features. Katie R. noted that Twelvemile Cabin has "a gradual, wheelchair-accessible gravel path" that "leads to a roomy, light cabin, done in local cedar."
Facility variations: Amenities differ significantly between locations. Polk Camp offers more extensive facilities than most forest service cabins. Katie R. explains it "has running hot and cold water... A shower and sinks, but no toilet due to septic regulations."
Tips for camping with families
Sleeping arrangements: Plan accordingly for family-sized groups. Polk Camp "sleeps as many as you want: 3 bedrooms with one bunk rack each," according to Katie R.
Extra sleeping space: Larger groups can utilize tent spaces around some cabins. Katie K. noted that at Twelvemile Cabin, "the mossy growth on the ground makes for good tent camping if you have more people than can fit in the cabin."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe native wildlife safely. Katie K. mentioned that at Harris River, despite "quite a few downed trees that distracted from the natural beauty," they "had a wonderful stay" with opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal operation: Most RV facilities operate on a limited seasonal schedule. Log Cabin RV Park and Resort in nearby Klawock is only open from April 1 to September 30, requiring careful trip planning.
Amenity availability: Unlike the rustic cabins, some RV parks offer additional services. Log Cabin RV Park and Resort provides showers, toilets, trash service, and allows pets and campfires.
Road access: Many Forest Service roads require high-clearance vehicles. When visiting cabin sites or campgrounds, prepare for unpaved, potentially rough driving conditions, especially after rain.