Helm Bay Cabin
4.656 reviewsHelm Bay Cabin
$65.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $80 per night for the cabin, while non-peak season rates are $65 per night. Additional fees may apply for reservation changes ($10) and cancellations ($10 plus forfeiture of the first night's fee).
About this campground
Nestled on the pristine west shore of Helm Bay, this charming 16-by-20 ft. pan-abode cabin offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. The three-room retreat, sheltered behind Forss Island, welcomes adventurers with its rustic appeal and modern comforts including a cozy wood stove and covered deck perfect for morning coffee. Whether you arrive by float plane skimming the water's surface, paddle in by kayak, or motor up by boat, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where old-growth rainforests meet the sea. Days here unfold with the rhythm of the tides—cast for salmon, drop crab pots in the bay, or explore hidden coves by kayak as eagles soar overhead.
Helm Bay Cabin offers a rustic lodging experience, tailored for those seeking a remote getaway in Alaska.
Historical SignificanceWhile the cabin itself may be relatively modern, it sits within the traditional territories of Alaska's indigenous peoples who have called these waters home for thousands of years. The surrounding landscape tells its own timeless story through ancient forests and abundant marine life.
Weather and SeasonsThis coastal paradise showcases Alaska's dramatic seasonal personality. Summer months from May through September paint the landscape in vibrant greens under generally mild conditions, making it prime time for outdoor adventures. As autumn arrives, expect nature's full force with frequent rain showers that nourish the temperate rainforest. Winter transforms the cabin into a snow-kissed hideaway, where moderate to heavy snowfall blankets the surrounding forest in pristine white. Pack layers and rain gear year-round—the weather here changes as quickly as the tides.
ElevationPerched at sea level where forest meets ocean, the cabin offers an intimate connection with Helm Bay's tidal rhythms. Watch the water rise and fall from your deck, revealing new beachscapes with each tide cycle.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock create a emerald cathedral around your cabin retreat. At low tide, a secret beach emerges like magic, inviting exploration among tide pools and driftwood sculptures. This pristine ecosystem pulses with life—black bears fish along the shoreline while their larger brown bear cousins roam the forest depths. Sitka black-tailed deer bound through the underbrush, mountain goats navigate distant cliffs, and the bay itself becomes a stage for seals playing in the shallows and whales breaching in deeper waters. Every window frames a National Geographic moment waiting to happen.
Geological RegionThe cabin occupies a spectacular position where ancient forests meet the sea on Helm Bay's western shore. Protected by Forss Island, this unique location features expansive saltwater tide flats that transform throughout the day, revealing a dynamic ecosystem where the temperate rainforest of Sitka spruce and western hemlock has thrived for centuries. The interplay between land and sea creates diverse habitats that support an incredible array of Pacific Northwest wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features, and the remote location suggests limited accommodations for those with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 16-by-20 feet and includes three rooms in a pan-abode style.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is surrounded by old-growth rainforest, offering significant privacy and separation from other areas.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring your own firewood, cookware, and water supply. Consult tide tables for boating activities.
Best CampsitesThere is only one campsite—the Helm Bay Cabin itself.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 8 people.
Groups
No group camping options are mentioned for this site.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin has three rooms (pan-abode style) and a covered deck. Nearby floating dock is available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season is May 1 through September 30, and non-peak season is October 1 through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe floating dock is maintained by the state and is available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations made less than 14 days before arrival. Late cancellations for one-night reservations will forfeit the entire amount paid.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Helm Bay Cabin is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Fishing
Helm Bay is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, including salmon, halibut, and red snapper. Consult tide tables for optimal fishing times.Boating
Boating is a popular activity here, with a floating dock available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can use kayaks, boats, or float planes to reach the site.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goats, seals, whales, and other marine mammals.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically detailed, but the cabin is open year-round, suggesting potential for off-season exploration in the snowy months.Water Sports
Sea kayaking is mentioned as a possible activity, making the site suitable for non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests are required to bring their own firewood. Campfires are not discussed.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is remote and wild, with potential hazards including bears, tides that affect accessibility, and high levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). Weather conditions may also impact safety.
Active alertsHigh levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) have been reported in the area.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely located in Ketchikan, approximately 24 miles away. Specific details about hospitals or ranger stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash. No dedicated trash or recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near a large saltwater tide flat and adjacent to a creek. Helm Bay is accessible directly from the cabin.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the lack of firewood at the cabin and the absence of basic cookware and supplies.
HostHost information is not provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsThe cabin is approximately 24 miles from Ketchikan or 12 miles from the Clover Pass area, located on the west end of Helm Bay. It is accessible by float plane, kayak, or boat, with a state-maintained floating dock near the cabin. Refer to USGS topographic map for Ketchikan, C-6, and consult local tide tables.
The cabin is located in a remote area and can only be accessed by float plane, kayak, or boat. Accessibility may be affected by weather conditions or tides. The floating dock is available on a first-come-first-served basis.Nearby places
Ketchikan - 24 miles, Clover Pass area - 12 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely located in Ketchikan, approximately 24 miles away. Specific details about grocery stores or fuel stations are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.7
6 reviews
Helm Bay Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Helm Bay Cabin has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its scenic setting, excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities, and the rustic but functional facilities. Some criticisms focus on the lack of provided firewood.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests highlight the excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities in Helm Bay. The cabin's scenic location and functional setup also receive praise.
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
A recurring complaint is the lack of firewood at the site, despite the presence of a wood stove.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing firewood, cookware, and sleeping pads. One user suggested that providing shared cookware and vinyl-covered mattresses would enhance the experience.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer appears to be the most popular season for visits, with guests engaging in fishing, crabbing, and exploring the bay. There is no mention of winter-specific feedback.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Stayed here in 1999. Great cabin, awesome fishing and crabbing.' - Mark Watt
2. 'This particular cabin is one of the largest in this region.' - Mark Christensen
3. 'Thank goodness we brought our...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The site-specific reviews for Helm Bay Cabin (notably campsite K06) highlight the cabin's spacious setup and proximity to a freshwater stream. Complaints about missing firewood are consistent.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is not specifically reviewed, though the remote location and need for self-sufficiency likely limit accessibility options.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No pet-related reviews or policies are explicitly mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025