Cabin accommodations in the Gustavus area require preparation and self-sufficiency for a true Alaskan wilderness experience. Located on the northern shore of Icy Strait, this region features temperate rainforest terrain with summer temperatures typically ranging 50-65°F. Winter access to backcountry cabins often requires skiing or snowshoeing through challenging conditions when trails become snow-covered.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Mendenhall Lake Campground, visitors should maintain clean campsites as "bears do frequent the area," according to James L. The campground's proximity to glaciers creates unique viewing opportunities.
Water exploration: Kayaking provides excellent access to remote cabins and viewpoints. "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.
Glacier hiking: Multiple trails connect to viewing areas with varied difficulty levels. "There's way more seclusion on the East Glacier trail and the Trail of time which are both longer," explains Fain H., adding that "Half way up nugget falls trails there are a few cut through's to the lake where you can find nice private beaches."
What campers like
Proximity to wilderness with conveniences: St. James Bay State Marine Park offers a balance of accessibility and remoteness. "The recreational use of St. James Bay is extremely high. The bay, easily accessed by small boat from the Amalga Harbor boat launch, Auke Bay, or Juneau, is a popular area for wildlife viewing, photography, waterfowl and big game hunting, sport fishing, boating, kayaking, and camping," explains Josiah P.
Seasonal advantages: Summer stays provide extended daylight hours for activities. "The average temperatures in the summer are in the 60's, rare highs hitting 80, which I was blessed to experience," notes one camper about St. James Bay State Marine Park.
Natural settings: Peterson Lake Campground provides flexible camping options. "This campground has one site with a picnic table and a fire ring. However you can camp anywhere that there is parking. This is on a well-maintained road and would be great to bring a kayak," shares Tanya B.
What you should know
Water availability: Water sources near cabins can be unreliable depending on seasonal conditions. One visitor to Blue Mussel Cabin advises to "bring enough water for the night because the creek by the cabin is currently dried up."
Access limitations: Many cabins require planning for alternative transportation methods. "Summer access by foot or boat (can haul onto a rocky beach). The foot trail begins at Point Bridget State Park Trailhead parking area at Mile 39 Glacier Highway. The trail is 3.4 miles to the cabin," notes Josiah P. about Blue Mussel Cabin.
Communication constraints: Cell service is minimal to nonexistent at many locations. Eagle Beach State Recreation Area has "absolutely no cell service," according to James B., though some sites allow for satellite connectivity: "There are some sites not completely in the trees. We were able to get good solar and Starlink service."
Weather preparedness: Temperature fluctuations and precipitation can occur rapidly. Pack "warm clothing and quality rain gear, as inclement weather can set in quickly and last for days," advises a St. James Bay camper.
Tips for camping with families
Select accessible cabin locations: John Muir Cabin provides a rewarding hike that's manageable for families. "The cabin at the end is cozy and the views of the mountains are spectacular. You do not want to miss this. The boardwalks over the muskegs and the flora and fauna are unreal," shares Katie K.
Schedule around cruise ship traffic: Popular areas can become crowded during peak hours. "Best way to avoid the cruise ship crowds is to go early or late," recommends Fain H., noting that "Photo point trail and Nugget Falls trail are a must and have the heaviest foot traffic from 10am to 2pm."
Plan for wildlife encounters: Bear safety protocols should be followed rigorously. At Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, "There is a large amount of bear activity in area. We had a black bear next to our campground eating grass one evening," reports James B.
Tips from RVers
Limited facilities: Peterson Lake Cabin and surrounding areas typically lack full hookups or dump stations. Basic maintenance happens periodically: "We fixed the gutter outside and repainted the propane tank. Performed trail maintenance where needed and fixed the dock on the lake," notes a Forest Service worker who stayed at Peterson Lake Cabin.
Space constraints: Most cabin areas aren't suitable for larger rigs. Peterson Lake campground offers "4 spots with picnic tables and fire pits. Clean bathrooms and big trash cans that got emptied while we were there for 4 nights," according to Bradee A., but spaces remain limited.
Reservation requirements: Many sites fill quickly during peak season. For Mendenhall Lake Campground, "Before you go: you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August," advises Josiah P.
