Wilson Narrows Cabin
03 reviews: null
Wilson Narrows Cabin
$45.00 - $60.00 / 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 (May 1 - September 30, 2025) fee is $60. Non-peak season (October 1 - December 31, 2025) fee is $45.
About this campground
Deep within the untamed wilderness of Misty Fiords National Monument lies Wilson Narrows Cabin, a rustic sanctuary accessible only by the thrilling journey of a float plane landing on pristine waters. This year-round wilderness retreat strips away modern conveniences—no electricity hums through its walls, no plumbing disrupts the natural silence, and cell towers are a distant memory. Here, adventurers embrace the raw beauty of Alaska's backcountry, arriving prepared with provisions and gear for an authentic off-grid experience where weather patterns and wildlife set the daily rhythm.
Wilson Narrows Cabin primarily caters to cabin lodging and remote wilderness experiences. It does not support tent or RV camping, emphasizing its purpose as a rustic cabin rental.
Historical SignificanceWilson Narrows Cabin stands as a gateway to one of America's most treasured landscapes—Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. This protected expanse represents millions of years of geological artistry and serves as a living museum of ecological diversity, where ancient forests and pristine waters tell the story of a landscape shaped by ice, time, and the persistent forces of nature.
Weather and SeasonsThe wilderness truly comes alive from May through September, when warmer temperatures transform the landscape into an outdoor paradise. During these golden months, float planes can reliably deliver adventurers to this remote outpost, where long daylight hours invite endless exploration and the surrounding waters beckon with their summer clarity.
ElevationInformation about specific elevation is not available for this wilderness location.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to mirror-like reflections of towering peaks in the glassy surface of Wilson Lake, a stunning glacial masterpiece carved from ancient bedrock. Dense evergreen forests cascade down mountainsides, creating a verdant amphitheater where mountain goats navigate impossible cliffs and Sitka black-tailed deer emerge at twilight. Both black and brown bears roam these wild corridors, while overhead, a symphony of bird calls fills the air—from soaring eagles to chattering songbirds—making every moment a wildlife photographer's dream.
Geological RegionNestled along the shores of Wilson Lake in Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness, the cabin sits in a landscape sculpted by massive glaciers over millennia. These ancient rivers of ice carved deep valleys between rugged mountain peaks, leaving behind a dramatic tableau where sheer granite walls plunge into crystalline waters. The surrounding evergreen forests cling to steep slopes, creating a timeless panorama that showcases the raw power of geological forces that shaped Southeast Alaska.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features were not explicitly mentioned in the source material.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 12x14 ft and accommodates up to six occupants.
Sites PrivacyVisitors often report a high level of privacy due to the remote location and limited human presence. One user noted, "Had the whole lake to myself."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring firewood, life jackets for the provided aluminum skiff, and essential items like water and rain gear.
Best CampsitesNot applicable; single cabin rental.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not provided.
Check-out
Not provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is up to 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin accommodates up to 6 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin situated on the south end of Wilson Lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but peak season runs May 1 - September 30, and non-peak season October 1 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; cabin rental requires advance reservation.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee apply for cancellations less than 14 days before check-in. Additional penalties may apply for late cancellations and no-shows.
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
Wilson Narrows Cabin offers various recreational activities centered around its remote and scenic wilderness. "Wilson Lake is an angler's paradise, offering excellent cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon fishing." Visitors can also row around the lake in a provided 14-foot aluminum skiff. Wildlife viewing opportunities include mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bears, with birdwatching also being popular.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities include cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and kokanee salmon. "Wilson Lake is an angler's paradise," and the lake outlet provides particularly good fishing conditions. A user review confirmed, "Fishing was great, and we had a wonderful time."Boating
A 14-foot aluminum skiff is provided for boating, although visitors must bring their own life jackets. User reviews suggest bringing a small outboard motor for better exploration of the lake.Wildlife viewing
The area offers abundant wildlife, including mountain goats, Sitka black-tailed deer, black bears, and brown bears. Birdwatching is also popular. Official sources include links to bear safety information.Winter Activities
Winter camping may be challenging due to frozen lake conditions, making float plane access impossible.Water Sports
Basic boating with the provided skiff is the main water-based activity; advanced water sports were not discussed.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Bring your own firewood for the wood stove as supplied firewood cannot be guaranteed. Campfire use not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include wildlife (black and brown bears), cold temperatures, and inaccessible terrain during frozen lake conditions.
Active alertsMay be inaccessible during fall, winter, and early spring due to frozen lake surfaces.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 84%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1 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
Contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for updates on accessibility. Emergency services are likely based in Ketchikan.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out all trash and food and clean the cabin before leaving, ensuring wildlife safety and environmental preservation.
Proximity to water featuresLocated on the south end of Wilson Lake, which allows fishing and boating activities. A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention a lack of firewood, poor cabin maintenance (e.g., broken window, outhouse conditions).
HostNot specified.
Campground Map
: null
Driving directionsAccessible by float plane only. Located approximately 44 air miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland, north of Wilson Arm. The cabin sits on the south end of Wilson Lake. Helicopter access is illegal. In fall, winter, and early spring, frozen lake surfaces may prevent float plane landings. Refer to USGS map Ketchikan B-2 and C-2.
Accessible exclusively via float plane. Helicopters are prohibited due to designated Wilderness area rules. The lake can freeze, rendering it inaccessible during fall, winter, and early spring.Nearby places
Ketchikan is approximately 44 air miles away.
Nearby supplies
Visitors must bring their own essentials, including firewood, drinking water, food, and gear. Supplies are not provided at the cabin or nearby.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Wilson Narrows Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight both the beauty and challenges of Wilson Narrows Cabin, including excellent fishing and breathtaking scenery contrasted by maintenance issues like full outhouse facilities and occasional cabin disrepair.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the exceptional fishing opportunities, the provided skiff, and the remote, serene location. "Had the whole lake to myself," reported one visitor.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints included broken cabin windows, absence of firewood, and poorly maintained outhouse facilities.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a small outboard motor for better lake exploration and additional firewood for colder weather. Visitors emphasized the importance of thorough preparation given the cabin's remote and rustic...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visits may face access challenges due to frozen lake surfaces preventing float plane landings. Peak season reviews (summer) are generally more favorable, with better weather enhancing the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Fishing was great, and we had a wonderful time." "The cabin was a mess when we arrived to find a broken window and no firewood." "Had the whole lake to myself."
Based on 3 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
User Kristel M on 9/21/2020 reported maintenance issues like a broken window and full outhouse but praised fishing and lake beauty.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressed accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically discussed pet policies or experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025