Coghill Lake Cabin

5 reviews

145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129, Girdwood, AK, 99587, USA

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

75 ft

Price

$50 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

75 ft

Price

$50 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Coghill Lake Cabin

$50.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season nightly rate (May 1 - September 30): $60. Non-peak season nightly rate (October 1 - April 30): $50. Fees do not include taxes or...

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-783-3242

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

"User reviews highlight the remote and scenic nature of the cabin, emphasizing its wilderness location and rugged access. Positive sentiments focus on the simplicity of the cabin and the breathtaking views, while complaints mention overgrown trails and limited fishing success."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129, Girdwood, AK, 99587, USA

Coghill Lake Cabin

145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129, Girdwood, AK, 99587, USA

Driving directionsAccessible via float plane (50 minutes from Anchorage or 60 minutes from Cordova). The lagoon has enough water to taxi a plane near the boardwalk by the cabin. Alternatively, it can also be accessed via a primitive and brushy three-mile trail from Port Wells.

The cabin is not accessible via the road system. Float planes provide access, and there is also a challenging three-mile hiking trail, which is described as primitive and heavily overgrown.

Nearby places

Anchorage (50-minute floatplane flight), Cordova (60-minute floatplane flight)

Nearby supplies

Guests must bring all necessary supplies, including water, kerosene for heating, and food. No nearby supply stations are explicitly mentioned.

Best Time to Camp at Coghill Lake Cabin

Each season paints Coghill Lake in dramatically different hues, offering visitors unique experiences throughout the year. Summer arrives with endless daylight and temperatures that coax wildflowers from the meadows, though the warmth also awakens clouds of insects and transforms trails into tunnels through verdant, thick brush. As autumn's golden touch spreads across the landscape, temperatures begin their descent, and by winter, the lake may freeze into a glittering expanse of ice—sometimes grounding floatplanes until spring's thaw. Spring brings renewal but maintains winter's chill, creating a landscape of stunning contrasts where ice meets emerging greenery. Savvy visitors plan accordingly, knowing that each season offers its own rewards and challenges.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Peak season: endless daylight, berry picking and active salmon runs noted in reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Colorful fall foliage and strong scenic value in autumn are highlighted.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Seasonal transition with variable access; fishing ramps up later in spring/early summer.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

2.0 / 5

Open year-round but frozen lake and access issues reduce winter usability.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season: May 1 - September 30. Non-peak season: October 1 - April 30.
Current Alerts: “Potable water is not available. Boil or treat natural sources. Inclement weather may cause extended stays. Check ahead for freezing lake surface conditions.”

About Coghill Lake Cabin

Escape to the untamed beauty of Prince William Sound at Coghill Lake Cabin, where pristine wilderness meets serene waterfront living. Perched on the southwest shore of crystalline Coghill Lake, this remote sanctuary offers adventurers a year-round gateway to Alaska's raw magnificence. Whether you arrive by floatplane, watching the landscape unfold beneath you, or conquer the challenging three-mile trail through ancient forests, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where glaciers gleam on distant peaks and old-growth conifers whisper stories of the wild. This isn't just a cabin—it's your personal basecamp for exploring one of Alaska's most spectacular hidden corners.

Coghill Lake Cabin is a primitive-type camping facility primarily for backcountry and wilderness enthusiasts. Access is remote, either by floatplane or a challenging three-mile hike.

Historical SignificanceCoghill Lake Cabin stands as a testament to America's commitment to preserving wild places, nestled within the carefully protected Nellie Juan - College Fiord Wilderness Study Area. This designation ensures that the timeless character of this landscape—unchanged for millennia—remains intact for future generations to discover and cherish. Here, visitors step into a living museum of natural history, where every glacier-carved valley and ancient tree tells the story of Alaska's enduring wilderness heritage.

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Coghill Lake in dramatically different hues, offering visitors unique experiences throughout the year. Summer arrives with endless daylight and temperatures that coax wildflowers from the meadows, though the warmth also awakens clouds of insects and transforms trails into tunnels through verdant, thick brush. As autumn's golden touch spreads across the landscape, temperatures begin their descent, and by winter, the lake may freeze into a glittering expanse of ice—sometimes grounding floatplanes until spring's thaw. Spring brings renewal but maintains winter's chill, creating a landscape of stunning contrasts where ice meets emerging greenery. Savvy visitors plan accordingly, knowing that each season offers its own rewards and challenges.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details await documentation, visitors will experience the gentle undulations of Alaska's coastal terrain, where land meets water in perfect harmony.

Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself on the deck of Coghill Lake Cabin, where nature's grand theater unfolds in every direction. The cabin commands sweeping views across a tranquil lagoon, its glassy waters connected to the main lake by a hidden passage that beckons exploration. Behind this aquatic foreground, the mighty Chugach Mountains rise like ancient sentinels, their peaks adorned with gleaming glaciers that catch the changing light throughout the day. Old-growth conifers frame this spectacular vista, their emerald boughs providing both shelter and a sense of timeless permanence. Rolling hills carpet the landscape in gentle waves, creating intimate valleys and scenic overlooks that invite wandering. This is a place where every sunrise brings new discoveries and every sunset paints the mountains in shades of alpenglow.

Geological RegionThe Nellie Juan - College Fiord Wilderness Study Area cradles Coghill Lake Cabin in one of the Chugach National Forest's most geologically fascinating regions. Here, the earth's ancient forces have sculpted a masterpiece of rolling hills and glacier-carved valleys, where dense conifer forests give way to serene waterways. The shallow lagoon system represents thousands of years of geological patience, as glacial sediments and forest streams created this unique aquatic ecosystem. Towering above it all, the Chugach Mountains showcase Alaska's ongoing geological drama, their glaciers continuing the slow, powerful work of shaping tomorrow's landscapes. This dynamic terrain offers visitors a front-row seat to witness how ice, water, and time collaborate to create one of North America's most stunning wilderness areas.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

12:00 PM night of rental until 12:00 PM the following day.

Check-out

12:00 PM the following day.

Stay Limit

Maximum of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to six guests per cabin.

Groups

Group camping is not explicitly mentioned or supported.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin with a pit toilet, boardwalk, and lagoon access.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityCabin is fully reservable. No information on walk-up availability.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations within 14 days of reservation incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservation dates cost $10. Late cancellations (day before check-in) forfeit the first night’s fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified for Coghill Lake Cabin.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six guests inside its 16x16-foot A-frame structure.

PrivacyThe site is isolated and remote, offering a high level of privacy. It is surrounded by rolling hills and conifer trees, next to a shallow lagoon.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring foam sleeping pads or a bedroll, as none are provided. Carry extra supplies for 2-5 days due to potential weather delays.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

The Coghill Lake Cabin provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hunting, boating, berry picking, hiking, and wildlife viewing. These activities are highly seasonal and remote, requiring preparation and skill.

HikingHiking opportunities include a rugged three-mile trail from Port Wells to the cabin. This trail is primitive, brushy, and requires route-finding skills. Hikers should be prepared for challenging terrain and thick vegetation.

FishingSalmon fishing is excellent in the lakeshore and lagoon. Sockeye fishing runs from mid-June to July, pink and chum in July and August, and Coho salmon in August and September. Dolly Varden trout fishing is good from May through October. The Coghill River, connecting the lagoon to College Fiord, is another prime spot for sockeye fishing. One user review noted poor Coho fishing success despite heavy daily efforts.

BoatingA small rowboat and oars are provided for guests by the Forest Service, requiring guests to bring personal flotation devices. The lagoon is shallow and float planes may only taxi during high water conditions.

Wildlife viewingThe area surrounding Coghill Lake Cabin is rich in wildlife, including Sitka black-tailed deer, bald eagles, waterfowl, and river otters. The black bear population in the area is notable, and visitors are urged to practice proper bear safety.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsFrequent black bear sightings, thick brush, and rugged terrain on the trail. Weather can cause unexpected delays, and visitors must be prepared for extended stays.

Active Alerts“Potable water is not available. Boil or treat natural sources. Inclement weather may cause extended stays. Check ahead for freezing lake surface conditions.”

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Fire PolicyFirewood must be purchased locally and burned on-site.

Emergency ServicesContact the local Forest Service Ranger District at (907) 783-3242 to check for any emergency assistance.

Trash & RecyclingVisitors must pack out all trash and food as no trash or recycling facilities are provided.

Water FeaturesThe cabin is next to a shallow lagoon connecting to Coghill Lake. Floatplanes can land on the lagoon during high water conditions.

Camp HostUnstaffed. For assistance, contact the main office at (907) 783-3242.

Weather at Coghill Lake Cabin

Reviews

0.0

5 reviews

Limited Reviews

Coghill Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the remote and scenic nature of the cabin, emphasizing its wilderness location and rugged access. Positive sentiments focus on the simplicity of the cabin and the breathtaking views, while complaints mention overgrown trails and limited fishing success.

Review Summaries

Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the overall condition of the cabin and the stunning natural surroundings, including glaciers, mountains, and streams. The kerosene heater is especially appreciated for warming the cabin...

Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include overgrown trails and limited success in Coho salmon fishing. One user remarked, "The last half of the trail to the cabin is pretty overgrown," and another noted, "Coghill is...

Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a bed roll as foam sleeping pads are not provided. Plan for 1-2 gallons of kerosene per day for the heater, and pack extra supplies for inclement weather. GPS coordinates are useful for finding...

Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight berry picking and active fishing seasons, while colder months introduce challenges with accessibility due to frozen lake surfaces.

Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Spectacular glaciers, soaring peaks, colorful fall foliage, and beautiful streams—it was a great place to experience Alaska." "The kerosene heater warms the cabin up quick and is a great help in...

Based on 5 reviews