Helm Creek Cabin
04 reviewsHelm Creek 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
Cabin fee is $80.00 in peak season and $65.00 during the non-peak season.
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About this campground
Discover a hidden coastal sanctuary where the rhythmic pulse of the tides meets the untamed wilderness of Alaska's remote shores. This secluded campground offers an authentic escape into nature's raw beauty, where each day brings new discoveries along the pristine waterfront and every evening promises spectacular sunsets over the peaceful bay waters.
The Helm Creek Cabin offers a single accommodation type, centered around the rustic cabin experience. It does not have provisions for tent or RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient tidal lands have sustained indigenous communities for thousands of years, serving as vital harvest grounds for shellfish, seaweed, and salmon. The confluence of Helm Creek and the saltwater bay created a natural gathering place where traditional knowledge was passed down through generations, and the rhythms of the tides still guide life along these shores today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic coastal climate where morning mists roll across the tidal flats and afternoon sun breaks through maritime clouds. Spring awakens with migrating birds and blooming wildflowers, while summer brings long days perfect for exploration. Fall paints the landscape in golden hues as salmon return to nearby streams, and winter transforms the area into a serene wonderland of frost-kissed shores and dramatic storm watching opportunities.
ElevationPerched at sea level where land meets water, the campground offers intimate access to the ever-changing intertidal zone. From your campsite, watch as the tides transform the landscape twice daily, revealing expansive mudflats teeming with marine life at low tide and bringing the ocean to your doorstep when waters rise. The gentle slope toward the water provides perfect vantage points for wildlife viewing and beachcombing.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the calls of eagles soaring above Helm Creek's pristine waters as they flow into the protected bay. The surrounding tidal flats create a living tapestry of marine ecosystems, where herons stalk through shallow pools and seals surface in deeper channels. Dense coastal forests frame the campground, their emerald canopy sheltering diverse wildlife while ancient cedars and hemlocks stand sentinel over this pristine meeting place of forest, creek, and sea.
Geological RegionNestled on the remote eastern shore of Helm Bay where freshwater meets the sea, this unique geological setting showcases the powerful forces that shaped Alaska's coastline. The adjacent saltwater tidal flats reveal millennia of sediment deposits from Helm Creek, creating rich mudflats that support an intricate web of marine life. This dynamic landscape, carved by glaciers and refined by countless tides, offers visitors a front-row seat to observe ongoing geological processes in one of North America's most pristine coastal environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified in the source material. Due to its remote location and required self-sufficiency, the site might be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 12x14 ft. in size, accommodating up to six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers privacy as it is situated in a remote and secluded area along the east shore of Helm Bay.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
7days
Guests Allowed Per Site
6people
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
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 Creek Cabin offers a variety of activities, focusing on outdoor recreation and wildlife experiences. Crabbing and saltwater fishing are popular, with opportunities to catch salmon, halibut, and red snapper in Helm Bay. Helm Lake provides trout and Dolly Varden fishing, though there is no trail access to the lake. Sea kayaking is another option, and the area is ideal for wildlife viewing, with potential sightings of bears, deer, goats, and marine mammals.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities include crabbing and saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut, and red snapper in Helm Bay. Trout and Dolly Varden fishing are possible in Helm Lake; however, there is no trail to the lake. "Local tide tables should be consulted before taking a boat out on the bay."Boating
Boating is accessible, with a mooring float available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors are encouraged to consult tide tables for safe navigation.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goats, seals, whales, and other marine mammals often seen in the area. "This area is home to black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and mountain goats. Seals, whales, and other marine mammals may be seen in Helm Bay."Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the cabin is open year-round, suggesting potential for snow-related recreation.Water Sports
Sea kayaking is mentioned as a recreational activity in Helm Bay, dependent on conditions.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 73%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6.5 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 would be accessible from Ketchikan.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere are no on-site trash or recycling facilities. Visitors must pack out all trash and litter, as stated in the rules and guidelines.
Campground Map
Driving directions"The cabin is located on the east shore of Helm Bay near the mouth of Helm Creek. It is about 24 miles from Ketchikan, west of the Clover Pass area. The cabin is accessible by float plane, kayak or boat, and a buoy is located directly in front of the cabin. Please consult Local tide tables in advance."
Accessible by float plane, kayak, or boat due to wilderness remoteness.Nearby places
Ketchikan, AK: approximately 24 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Helm Creek Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Helm Creek Cabin highlight its natural beauty and the basic but functional state of the facilities. Positive experiences often emphasize the scenic location, wildlife, and the wood stove, while negatives reflect on maintenance issues and the lack of firewood.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive mentions from user reviews include: "Nice cabin with a great beach," "Beautiful area, the cabin is in good shape," and "Plenty of beach area at low tide for kids." The wood stove and scenic...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of firewood, with one user stating, "As usual the cost is high and the firewood non-existent." Another noted that the site was messy upon arrival, saying, "The camp...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
User tips include preparing to bring your own firewood and cleaning supplies to ensure the cabin is ready for use. Visitors also recommend being cautious of tides and wildlife.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews do not provide detailed seasonal trends, but the cabin's year-round availability and the specific mention of certain wildlife suggest that the experience may vary with seasons.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice cabin with a great beach." (KURT M, 11/20/2021); "Beautiful area, the cabin is in good shape and the wood stove works." (LAURA F, 8/31/2022); "Plenty of beach area at low tide for kids." (ZACH...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews point specifically to the Helm Creek Cabin. The beach and wood stove are highlighted as positive aspects, while maintenance issues and the lack of firewood are consistent complaints.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews address accessibility features or experiences related to disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly discuss pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025