Mcdonald Lake Cabin
04 reviews,Cleveland Peninsula, north of Yes Bay.
Mcdonald Lake Cabin
$60.00 - $75.00 / 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
Facility rates: $75 during peak season (May 1 - September 30); $60 during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31). Does not include change fees ($10) or cancellation fees ($10).
About this campground
Escape to the untouched wilderness of McDonald Lake Cabin, where the pristine waters of a remote Alaskan lake meet ancient rainforests teeming with life. This secluded retreat, accessible only by floatplane, promises an authentic backcountry experience surrounded by towering mountains, mirror-like waters, and the raw beauty of America's last frontier. Here, wilderness isn't just a backdrop—it's your closest neighbor.
The McDonald Lake Cabin represents a primitive camping experience with basic facilities and no modern amenities. It is isolated and only accessible by float plane or a 1.5-mile hike.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of American history at this authentic Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) shelter, a testament to the young men who helped shape our nation's wilderness areas during the Great Depression. Built by the hands of the CCC workers who carved trails and constructed shelters throughout Alaska's vast forests, this cabin stands as a living monument to their legacy of conservation and craftsmanship that continues to provide refuge for modern adventurers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the crisp embrace of Alaska's temperate rainforest climate, where temperatures hover around a refreshing 32 degrees on average during cooler months. This moderate coastal environment creates perfect conditions for wildlife viewing and ensures the lush forest remains vibrant year-round, though visitors should prepare for the region's characteristic mist and rainfall that nourish this emerald paradise.
ElevationNestled at the gentle shores of McDonald Lake, the cabin sits at an elevation that perfectly balances accessibility with that coveted sense of mountain seclusion, offering stunning views across the water to the surrounding peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a cathedral of ancient giants, where centuries-old cedar trees stretch skyward alongside towering Sitka spruce, creating a verdant canopy that has sheltered generations of wildlife. This pristine ecosystem serves as home to majestic brown and black bears who fish the streams, while Sitka black-tailed deer move silently through the understory. The interplay of mist-shrouded mountains, crystal-clear lake waters, and the endless green tapestry of old-growth forest creates a landscape that seems pulled from the pages of a fairytale.
Geological RegionLocated deep within the legendary Tongass National Forest—America's largest temperate rainforest—McDonald Lake Cabin sits in one of the planet's most biologically rich ecosystems. This ancient forest, dominated by massive old-growth cedar, Sitka spruce, and Western hemlock, represents one of the last intact temperate rainforests on Earth. The Tongass's 17 million acres of islands, fjords, and mountainous terrain create a geological wonderland where glacially carved valleys meet the sea, and where the forces of nature continue to shape this dramatic landscape just as they have for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific mention of accessibility features. Access to the cabin requires a 1.5-mile hike or arrival by float plane.
Sites SizeThe 12x14-foot cabin is designed to accommodate six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a remote, forested area offering excellent privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring firewood and repair tools, should you encounter equipment problems
Best CampsitesOnly cabin
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Stay Limit
7
Guests Allowed Per Site
6
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNo layout specified.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations allowed for this cabin
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees $10 refund minus the first-night recreation use fee.
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
The McDonald Lake Cabin offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The area is rich in natural beauty and provides opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Hiking
The McDonald Lake Trail, a 1.5-mile path, connects Yes Bay to the cabin. A 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) three-sided shelter is a notable highlight along the trail. Hiking is described as challenging by some visitors. One review mentions, 'The hike to Yes Bay was pretty hard up and down a lot.'Fishing
Steelhead and salmon runs are common up to Wolverine Creek, and the lake offers trout and Dolly Varden. As one reviewer noted, 'Caught pink, cutthroat, and Dolly Varden.' Fishing permits must be obtained from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.Boating
The cabin includes a skiff with oars for lake exploration. Visitors must provide their own life jackets and can use a short-shaft motor, which is not provided. One visitor commented, 'The skiff might have a small leak.'Wildlife viewing
The area is home to Sitka black-tailed deer, black and brown bears, wolves, and a variety of bird species. Otters have also been spotted. A visitor noted, 'Saw bear at the inlet and a family of otters.'Winter Activities
The cabin may be inaccessible in the winter due to frozen lake surfaces, which prevent float plane landings.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing or rowing in the skiff are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood guests.
Hazards
General hazardsBear precautions
Active alertsNo bear or other official alerts equipment malfunction.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 87%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.5 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District, contact: 907-225-2148.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingVisitors are expected to pack out all their trash, gear, and food as there are no trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water features,lake
Common complaintsLeaks complaints firewood guests
HostManaged remote.
Campground Map
,Cleveland Peninsula, north of Yes Bay.
Driving directionsAccess is by float plane or boat. There is a 1.5-mile hike by trail from Yes Bay Lodge at saltwater. Refer to USGS Ketchikan D-6. In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land).
Accessible only by float plane or boat, with a 1.5-mile hike needed from Yes Bay Lodge. Road access is not applicable as the site is extremely remote.Nearby places
Ketchikan - 50 miles
Nearby supplies
Supplies would need to be obtained in Ketchikan prior to arrival. There are no facilities near the cabin for supplies.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Mcdonald Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of McDonald Lake Cabin highlight both the unique charm of the site and the logistical challenges it presents. Many users appreciated the cabin's remote location and scenic beauty, while others pointed out maintenance issues and the need for better planning. The lack of guaranteed firewood and minor equipment problems were recurring themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the cabin's beautiful location, the availability of a skiff for boating, and the abundant fishing opportunities. One review stated, 'Arriving by float plane with Carlin Air was...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints included the unreliable supply of firewood, issues with the skiff's condition, and the cabin's darkness after skylights were removed. Users mentioned, 'There was very little...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra firewood, a headlamp, and all essential supplies due to the cabin's remote location. One visitor advised, 'Take headlamps even for daytime activities inside the cabin.'
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter accessibility can be challenging due to frozen lake surfaces, and visitors are advised to check with the ranger district before booking during this season. Summer reviews highlight fishing and...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Arriving by float plane with Carlin Air was amazing.'
- 'Caught pink, cutthroat, and Dolly Varden.'
- 'There was very little firewood.'
Based on 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Most reviews focused on the cabin and its immediate surroundings. Specific site-related comments were about the skiff's condition, the need for better maintenance, and the beauty of the location.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews mentioned experiences with pets.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025