Shuyak Island State Park Public Use Cabins

Shuyak Island State Park comprises most of the island's 48,000 acres, with a few small privately owned parcels scattered about. The park is part of the unique Kodiak Archipelago coastal forest system, which contains only one tree species: Sitka spruce. Besides a virgin Sitka spruce forest, the park includes miles of rugged coastline, beaches and protected waterways. If you visit Shuyak, you may either camp or rent one of the four public use cabins. Groceries and other supplies must be purchased before you arrive on Shuyak. There is a state park contact station on Big Bay for possible assistance if necessary. They may be able to provide communication to the mainland, but only in an emergency. Visitors should be as self-sufficient as possible; assistance could be hours or days away. The Shuyak experience is one of the wilderness. Those who have planned their trip carefully find the greatest rewards.

Several air charters provide float plane service to the park and the four public use cabins located on the remote island. Once you arrive on the island, no visitor services are available. Weather at Shuyak Island is generally cool and moist. Average annual precipitation is about 75 inches and summertime temperatures range from the low 40's to the mid 60's. Poor weather can delay flights to and from the park so all visitors are encouraged to pack extra food and supplies in case they get weathered in.

• Cancellations made within 14 days of arrival WILL NOT be refunded. Cancellations made at least 15 days prior to arrival can receive a refund (does not include transaction/cancellation fees).
• Weather - Shuyak Island is at the tip of the Kodiak Archipelago and is subject to severe and unpredictable weather. Sea conditions can deteriorate rapidly: large swells, rough seas, high winds, and heavy surf occur frequently in open waters. The inner bays are generally protected, but in either area in these waters hypothermia can set in within minutes. Generally, rainfall averages about 4-6 inches per month in the summertime, with temperatures ranging from the low 40's to the mid-60's (Fahrenheit). Always be ready for rain and soft wet ground/be prepared to stay dry and warm.
• Bears - Kodiak brown bear (Ursus arctos) are found on Shuyak Island. Be prepared for bear encounters. Respect the bears, give them the right of way and make a lot of noise (some hikers put bells on their packs and carry whistles to alert bears to their presence). Use caution, avoid surprise encounters, and follow all bear safety ettiquette. Do not leave any food items outside of cabins or otherwise accessible to bears. Discard fish and animal entrails in ocean or deep fast moving water.
• Carry signaling devise in case of an emergency (orange cloth/flares/etc.).
• Carry first aid items, flashlight (particularly in winter), snack and a fire starter.
• Surface water should be boiled or treated before drinking.
• Please help protect shorebirds by keeping dogs under control at all times; do not allow dogs to disturb or chase birds or other wildlife.
• Always tell a friend, relative, or park ranger (486-6339) where you are going and when you expect to return.
• Fireworks and explosives are prohibited.
• Disturbing or damaging natural objects prohibited.