Forest Service cabins near Tenakee Springs, Alaska offer remote wilderness accommodations throughout Tongass National Forest. These rustic structures require significant advance planning, with many accessible only by boat or floatplane. Winter visitors face additional challenges including snow accumulation on cabin roofs and frozen lakes that may prevent float plane landings.
What to do
Explore Mendenhall Glacier trails: Mendenhall Lake Campground provides direct access to multiple hiking options with varying difficulty levels. "Half way up nugget falls trails there are a few cut through's to the lake where you can find nice private beaches," notes visitor Fain H. The East Glacier Trail offers more seclusion than the heavily trafficked Photo Point and Nugget Falls trails.
Kayak wilderness waters: Visitors staying at Mendenhall Lake Campground can bring or rent kayaks to explore the lake and get closer 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," advises Josiah P.
Wildlife observation: Forest Service cabins provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, though proper precautions are necessary. At Moser Island Cabin, visitors should "be on the lookout for bears, there was multiple signs of them so don't leave anything outside," according to Billy B. Mendenhall Lake area also offers opportunities to spot mountain goats, eagles, and salmon depending on the season.
What campers like
Seclusion from cruise ship crowds: The Tongass National Forest cabins provide alternatives to busier tourist areas. "Mendenhall Campground is right on Mendenhall Lake and keeps you away from the crowds that come into the ranger station and visitor center. Best way to avoid the cruise ship crowds is to go early or late," advises Fain H.
Fishing opportunities: Several cabins offer excellent access to fishing. Near Moser Island Cabin, "there is great crabbing across the bay and decent shrimping within a 10 minute boat ride," according to Billy B. Many cabins are strategically placed near productive fishing locations throughout the Tongass.
Glacier views: The campgrounds near Juneau provide spectacular glacier viewing opportunities. "It was a wonderful campground! Right on the lake overlooking the Mendenhall Glacier," writes Angie W. about Mendenhall Lake Campground, adding "The campground itself is located near tons of hiking trails, kayaking/rafting opportunities, and the Glacier viewing center is nearby."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential for cabin stays. For Mendenhall Lake Campground, "you must reserve a spot online in advance & spots tend to fill up quickly in July & August," notes Josiah P. Most Forest Service cabins require booking through Recreation.gov, often months ahead for peak summer periods.
Transportation logistics: Many cabins require boat or floatplane access with specific landing requirements. Billy B. reports that Moser Island Cabin "takes little under 2 hours by boat" from Sitka, and advises "There is one mooring buoy to tie up to so bring a raft to get to shore."
Limited amenities: Forest cabins have minimal facilities. "The campsite has flush toilets and a shower house, as well as some covered shelters," reports Lindsay B. about Mendenhall Lake Campground, but most remote cabins lack these amenities. Billy B. advises cabin visitors to "Bring all your own camping gear" and notes that "There is also a little wood stove inside the cabin to help warm it up at night."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety education: Teaching children proper bear safety is essential when staying at Tongass cabins. "Great place for the family, bears do frequent the area so keep site clean," advises James L. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Insect management: Mosquitoes and other biting insects can affect comfort levels, especially for children. "The bugs are manageable," notes Angie W. about Mendenhall Lake Campground, suggesting that standard insect repellents are typically sufficient.
Water transportation: For boat-access cabins, ensure children have appropriate flotation devices. The Moser Island Cabin requires "a raft to get to shore" from the mooring buoy, according to Billy B., so families need to plan accordingly for safe shore access.
Tips for RVers
Limited RV facilities: Few cabins accommodate RVs, with Mendenhall Lake Campground being one exception. "I don't think there were any RVs, not sure if it was an off week or the road here is too much," notes Justin S. about Mendenhall Lake Campground, suggesting access may be challenging even where technically allowed.
Site selection strategy: When RV camping is possible, waterfront sites offer the best experience. "This campground is very well designed, almost all of the sites are along the water. Many have amazing views but all are within the trees," reports Justin S. about Mendenhall Lake Campground.
Utility considerations: Even at developed campgrounds, hookups may be limited. While Mendenhall Lake Campground lists water and electric hookups as available, RVers should confirm specific site amenities when booking, as many Alaska campgrounds have restricted services.
