Steamer Bay Cabin
04 reviewsWRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 51, WRANGELL AK, AK 99929
Steamer Bay Cabin
$45.00 - $45.00 / 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 reservation fee is $45 per night throughout the year with no discounts available for Golden Age or Golden Passports. There is an additional $10 change fee for modifying dates and $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival result in forfeiture of the first night's fee.
About this campground
Nestled on the northwest corner of Etolin Island, Steamer Bay Cabin offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience within the vast Tongass National Forest. This charming 20-by-20 modified A-frame structure rests on a pristine gravel beach where the forest meets the sea. Here, towering mountains frame your view while ancient rainforest surrounds you with its emerald embrace. The cabin serves as your gateway to exceptional saltwater fishing adventures and serene paddling excursions through some of Alaska's most untouched coastal waters.
Steamer Bay Cabin provides a singular, remote, and rustic camping experience, focused on cabin lodging without modern facilities. It is perfect for small group retreats into nature.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings a gentle climate to Steamer Bay, with temperatures dancing between 54°F and 67°F under skies that shift between misty rain and brilliant sunshine. The region's high humidity creates an almost mystical atmosphere as clouds drift through the forest canopy. While rain is a frequent companion, patient visitors are rewarded with spectacular clear days when the entire landscape seems to sparkle. Late summer emerges as the prime season for anglers, when salmon runs peak and the weather often delivers its most stable conditions.
Natural Features and ScenerySteamer Bay captivates visitors with its dramatic blend of mountain peaks and temperate rainforest, where towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock create a living cathedral. The landscape transforms from dense forest to grassy estuary, revealing tidal flats that shimmer at low tide and rocky shorelines sculpted by centuries of Pacific storms. This rich ecosystem supports an incredible array of wildlife—brown and black bears fish along the streams, porcupines amble through the underbrush, and Sitka black-tailed deer graze in forest clearings. Offshore, lucky observers might spot whales breaching in the distance, playful porpoises riding the wake of passing boats, and the majestic Roosevelt elk that call these islands home.
Geological RegionEtolin Island stands as a masterpiece of Southeast Alaska's geological heritage within the Tongass National Forest. This mountainous island showcases the region's signature landscape—ancient peaks clothed in temperate rainforest dominated by massive Sitka spruce and western hemlock. The terrain weaves together diverse ecosystems, from spongy muskeg meadows that have accumulated over millennia to weathered gravel beaches shaped by relentless tides. Grassy estuaries provide vital habitat where freshwater meets the sea, while expansive tidal flats and rugged rocky shorelines create a dynamic coastal environment that changes dramatically with each tide cycle.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is fully accessible, featuring a wheelchair ramp from the beach to the cabin.
Sites SizeCabin dimensions are 20-by-20 feet, designed to sleep up to seven people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a remote area, ensuring high privacy and seclusion for guests.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring firewood, drinking water, or a water treatment system. Consider tide tables for safe boating and arrival.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starting from 10:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out before midnight.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights from May 1 to September 30, and 10 consecutive nights from October 1 to April 30.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 7 guests can be accommodated.
Groups
The cabin can accommodate up to seven people and features additional space around the site for pitching tents if needed, according to user reviews.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with accessible ramps. Wrap-around deck on three sides.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and up to 180 days in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; all reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 14 days before arrival with a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations during this time.
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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Steamer Bay Cabin offers a variety of recreational opportunities, taking advantage of its location near saltwater and the natural beauty of Etolin Island. Activities include fishing, crabbing, clamming, abalone harvesting, beachcombing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Hiking and general exploration of the surrounding rainforest and tidal flats are also popular.
Hiking
The surrounding area can be explored on foot, offering opportunities to discover the dense Sitka spruce and western hemlock rainforest, grassy estuaries, and tidal flats.Fishing
Steamer Bay is ideal for saltwater fishing, with King salmon available from May through July, silver salmon in August and September, and halibut from June through September. Nearby Porcupine Creek offers opportunities to catch Dolly Varden and pink salmon from July through August.Boating
Boating is a popular activity, supported by the mooring buoy available for guest use. Tide tables are recommended for safe navigation.Wildlife viewing
Brown and black bears, porcupines, deer, waterfowl, porpoises, whales, and other marine life are commonly seen around the cabin. Roosevelt elk, introduced to Etolin Island, also thrive in the region.Beach activities
The gravel beach and nearby rocky shorelines offer excellent opportunities for beachcombing and exploring tide pools.Winter Activities
Specific winter activities such as cross-country skiing or snowshoeing are not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are popular, given the cabin's proximity to saltwater. Guests are advised to check tide tables before venturing out.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed; guests must provide their own firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsHigh levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning reported in the area. Rocky shorelines pose challenges for anchoring boats. Wildlife hazards include bears.
Active alertsEuropean Green Crab invasions suspected in Tongass National Forest.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 81%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
Wrangell, AK is the nearest town for emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingGuests are expected to pack out all trash and clean the cabin before leaving. On-site trash facilities are not available.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on a gravel beach overlooking Steamer Bay and Clarence Strait, with freshwater available from a nearby stream.
Common complaintsTides can drain up to 100 feet from the cabin front door, making anchoring challenging.
Campground Map
WRANGELL RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 51, WRANGELL AK, AK 99929
Driving directionsSteamer Bay Cabin is located on the northwest corner of Etolin Island on the east side of Steamer Bay. The cabin is accessible by boat or float plane only and is 27 miles by boat or 25 miles by air from Wrangell. Use caution when anchoring the boat due to the rocky shoreline. Check local tide tables to determine the best time for arrival and departure, ideally at high slack tide. There is a mooring buoy anchored in the bay for cabin guests only.
Accessible only by boat or float plane. Distance is 27 miles by boat or 25 miles by air from Wrangell. Anchoring boats may be challenging due to rocky shorelines.Nearby places
Wrangell: 27 miles by boat or 25 miles by air.
Nearby supplies
Wrangell, AK, 25-27 miles away, has grocery stores, fuel, and other supplies needed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Steamer Bay Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews overwhelmingly praise Steamer Bay Cabin for its spacious design, stunning natural surroundings, and opportunities for outdoor recreation. Guests highlight the remoteness and tranquility of the site, making it an ideal getaway.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the spacious A-frame cabin design, beautiful views of Clarence and Stikine Straits, ample opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking, and the presence of...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints revolve around the lack of provided firewood and the dilapidated condition of the mooring buoy, which may require caution during use.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing a chainsaw for sourcing firewood, consulting tide tables for safe boating, and ensuring the cabin is cleaned before departure. Packing portable water or treatment supplies...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
User reviews suggest peak enjoyment during the summer months when fishing opportunities and wildlife sightings are at their best.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"One of our family's favorite cabins. The large A-frame style has TONS of room compared to the usual Forest Service cabin." (Josiah H., 2021) "Beautiful setting. Nice gravel beach. Cabin was very...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight the spaciousness of the cabin, with one guest noting that it can easily accommodate 8-10 people if tents are pitched outside. The mooring buoy and views of the straits...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The cabin's wheelchair ramp is specifically noted as a valuable feature, making it accessible for guests with disabilities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025