Forest Service cabins near Kupreanof, Alaska provide rustic accommodations in the Tongass National Forest, accessible primarily by float plane or boat. These cabins typically accommodate 6-8 people with wooden bunks, a table, and a wood or oil stove for heat. Weather conditions vary significantly with summer highs averaging 65°F and winter lows often below freezing. Winter access requires additional planning as ice and snow may impact travel routes.
What to do
Glacier viewing: From Cascade Creek Cabin, visitors can access Thomas Bay Glacier within a moderate day hike. The surrounding area features old-growth forest and multiple waterfalls.
Fishing opportunities: Salt Chuck East Cabin provides excellent coho salmon fishing from July through September. Castle River Cabin offers proximity to productive fishing grounds where anglers report catching Dolly Varden and cutthroat trout using light tackle.
Wildlife observation: The area surrounding Breiland Slough Cabin hosts numerous wildlife species. Visitors should bring binoculars for spotting harbor seals, eagles, and black bears that frequent the shoreline.
What campers like
Scenic isolation: Beecher Pass Cabin offers complete solitude with views of Frederick Sound and the Coast Mountains. The cabin sits on a rocky point with unobstructed water views.
Traditional construction: The log cabin structures maintain their rustic character while providing basic shelter. Castle Flats Cabin features hand-hewn logs and traditional joinery techniques that demonstrate Forest Service craftsmanship.
Wood stove comfort: Most cabins include a reliable wood or oil stove as the primary heat source. Ravens Roost Cabin offers an efficient heating system that quickly warms the interior space during cold weather.
What you should know
Access logistics: Most cabins require water transportation or float plane service from Petersburg. Costs for float plane service typically range from $300-500 round trip depending on distance and weight.
Required supplies: Pack all essential gear including sleeping bags, cooking equipment, water containers, water purification methods, toilet paper, and garbage bags. Food should be stored properly to prevent wildlife encounters.
Reservation system: Cabins must be reserved through Petersburg Lake Cabin or the recreation.gov website, with fees ranging from $45-$75 per night. Bookings open six months in advance and popular cabins fill quickly during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Age considerations: Cabins best suit families with children aged 5 and older due to remote locations and limited emergency services. Bring games, cards, and nature guides for entertainment during inclement weather.
Safety precautions: Pack comprehensive first aid kits including prescription medications. All family members should wear appropriate flotation devices during water transit to cabins.
Weather preparation: Even summer months can bring significant rainfall and temperature fluctuations. Towers Arm Cabin visitors should pack multiple clothing layers and waterproof outer garments for all family members regardless of season.
Tips from RVers
Limited options: No cabin sites accommodate recreational vehicles. RV camping near Kupreanof requires ferry transport to Petersburg or Wrangell where limited hookup sites exist.
Alternative arrangements: RV travelers typically secure vehicles at Petersburg transportation facilities before arranging water transit to cabins. Storage rates average $15-25 daily for secured parking.
Planning sequence: Book cabin reservations before arranging transportation logistics. Allow 3-4 days between transport arrangements and cabin access dates to accommodate potential weather delays.
