Lake Kontrashibuna Backcountry camping sits within Lake Clark National Park & Preserve at approximately 600 feet elevation, surrounded by mountainous terrain rising to over 3,800 feet. Camping requires bush plane access to Port Alsworth followed by a hike to reach the lake area, where temperatures can range from 30-70°F between May and September. Winter access is limited by heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures at this subarctic location.
What to do
Hike Tanalian Mountain: Trek several miles up 3,800 feet in elevation for panoramic views overlooking Lake Clark and Lake Kontrashibuna. "A few miles and 3,800 feet up the trail, you'll receive sweeping views of both Lake Clark and Lake Kontrashibuna. And, very likely, no people," notes a visitor at Lake Kontrashibuna Backcountry camping.
Explore by kayak: Navigate the waters around Thompson Cabin and nearby islands. "This cabin can be combined with Priest Rock public cabin for a kayak tour of Lake Clark. Water taxi and kayak rentals are available from tulchinaadventures.com," explains a camper at Joe Thompson Cabin.
Follow historical routes: Hike the Portage Creek trail from Thompson's cabin to access alpine terrain. "Directly behind the cabin is Portage Creek trail which takes you above tree line in less than 2 hours. This historical route was climbed daily by Joe Thompson as he mined for gold near the summit," reports a visitor.
What campers like
Solitude and remoteness: Visitors appreciate the lack of crowds throughout the region. "Pure solitude: there is no other way to describe our time here. We encountered maybe a handful of other hikers in three days around the Port Alsworth area of Lake Clark National Park," shares a camper at Lake Kontrashibuna Backcountry camping.
Lake access: Waterfront locations provide excellent views and water access. "The location is stunning with views of western Lake Clark. Thompsons cabin is located on the lakeshore and a series of nearby islands provides fun exploring by kayak," notes a visitor at Joe Thompson Cabin.
Comfortable accommodations: Public cabins offer a more comfortable alternative to tent camping. "This spacious warm cabin has amazing views! The cabin is furnished with bunk beds and NRS sleeping mats," writes a visitor to Priest Rock Cabin.
What you should know
Transportation logistics: Bush plane service provides the primary access to Port Alsworth. "Because we didn't want to take the one-day fly-in bear viewing trip here, we coordinated a series of regularly-scheduled bush plane flights with Lake & Pen Air to get the cheapest flights to and from Port Alsworth," explains a visitor.
No designated sites: Backcountry camping requires finding suitable clearings. "There are no designated sites, but some areas that were clearly used for that purpose. Ours was nestled along the lake, with great views and perfect hammock trees for napping."
Lighting conditions: Some cabins have limited natural light. "It is a small log cabin with minimal windows for light so be sure and bring a lantern," advises a camper about the historical Joe Thompson Cabin.
Tips for camping with families
Consider cabin alternatives: For families, public cabins provide more shelter and comfort. "All beds are located in one room, but there is plenty of good tent space near the cabin if anyone felt they needed more space," notes a visitor to Priest Rock Cabin.
Pack complete supplies: No services exist once in the backcountry. "After landing, we hiked with our gear out to Lake Kontrashibuna, past Tanalian Falls, and to Lake Kontrashibuna," explains a camper, highlighting the need to carry everything required.
Use local outfitters: Rental equipment simplifies travel logistics. "Tulchina Adventures provides water taxi services, kayak rentals and camping gear rentals in Port Alsworth," mentions a visitor.
Tips from RVers
No RV access: Port Alsworth and Lake Clark National Park have no road connections. All pet friendly camping near Port Alsworth, Alaska requires boat or air transportation, with no facilities for recreational vehicles.
Alternative transportation: Consider float plane services that can accommodate larger groups and camping gear to access this remote area. Alaska air taxi services typically operate May through September when accessing the Lake Clark region.
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