How much does camping cost at Paulson Bay Cabin?

Camping fees at Paulson Bay Cabin are $50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Paulson Bay Cabin first-come first-served or reservation?

Paulson Bay Cabin accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Paulson Bay Cabin before I book?

Yes! Paulson Bay Cabin has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Paulson Bay Cabin?

Paulson Bay Cabin is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Paulson Bay Cabin?

Paulson Bay Cabin does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Paulson Bay Cabin?

Fire policies at Paulson Bay Cabin: Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by purchasing firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Paulson Bay Cabin have?

Paulson Bay Cabin has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Paulson Bay Cabin?

Pets are not allowed at Paulson Bay Cabin. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Paulson Bay Cabin?

Paulson Bay Cabin offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Paulson Bay Cabin?

Popular activities at Paulson Bay Cabin include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Paulson Bay Cabin

4.24

22 reviews

145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129

Featured in:Beach Camping Alaska Summer Camping Alaska Primitive Camping Alaska

Quick Facts

66 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

66 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Paulson Bay Cabin

$50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Provider

907-783-3242

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Campground Map

145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129

Paulson Bay Cabin

145 Forest Station Road, P.O. Box 129

Nearby places

Anchorage: 40 minutes (float plane), Cordova: 60 minutes (float plane), Whittier: 18 miles (boat).

Driving directionsTo access the cabin by float plane: it is 40 minutes from Anchorage and 60 minutes from Cordova. By boat, the trip is 18 miles from Whittier. Note: the Bay is not obvious because the mouth is partially obscured by five small islands. Beware of submerged rock ledges between islands and off coastal points. Check local tide tables ahead of time to determine the best arrival and departure times.

Weather at Paulson Bay Cabin

Current alerts(9)

! USERS MUST SUPPLY THEIR OWN HEATING OIL ! 1-2 gallon(s) a day is the recommended amount but plan appropriately for cooler temps in Winter, Spring and Fall.
A Forest Order (10-04-00-14-47) that limits occupying/renting a public use rental cabin for more than seven consecutive days by any group or person
Click here for more information about Chugach National Forest
Fee changes in effect. This facility will now charge the same fee year-round.

Best Time to Camp at Paulson Bay Cabin

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable, visitor-friendly conditions: milder temperatures (typically 45–65°F / 7–18°C), long daylight (up to ~18–20 hours), and the calmest seas for boating and kayaking. This is when fishing and marine wildlife viewing are at their peak — salmon and halibut fisheries, humpback and orca activity, and abundant seabirds — and trails and boat access are most dependable. Expect the highest visitation from late June through August, so reserve the cabin and water transport in Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Best season: long daylight, calm seas, peak salmon runs and easier access for boating/kayaking.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Paulson Bay Cabin

Paulson Bay Cabin is a remote U.S. Forest Service rental in Chugach National Forest, accessible only by boat or floatplane from Girdwood. The single cabin sits on a coastal site with panoramic views of Prince William Sound, attracting visitors for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Summer brings long daylight hours, calm seas, and peak salmon runs.

Paulson Bay Cabin is a remote, primitive lodging option accessible only by float plane or boat. It caters to wilderness campers seeking solitude and adventure.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable, visitor-friendly conditions: milder temperatures (typically 45–65°F / 7–18°C), long daylight (up to ~18–20 hours), and the calmest seas for boating and kayaking. This is when fishing and marine wildlife viewing are at their peak — salmon and halibut fisheries, humpback and orca activity, and abundant seabirds — and trails and boat access are most dependable. Expect the highest visitation from late June through August, so reserve the cabin and water transport in Peak months: July, August, June, May Avoid: December, January, February

Elevation66 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin overlooks Paulson Bay from a perch at 66 feet elevation, where mountains carved by ancient glaciers drop toward the sound's rich marine waters. Spongy muskeg spreads across the terrain between rocky peaks and the beach below. Black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and bald eagles move through the area regularly. In the water, sea otters float in kelp beds while orcas and Dall's porpoises pass through the bay. The coastline here shows the ongoing conversation between tectonic forces and ice: rugged headlands meeting sheltered coves where land and sea blur together.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin is a 12x14 foot structure equipped with basic amenities like wooden bunks, an oil drip stove, and a composting toilet. It sleeps up to six people and serves as a rustic lodging option in an isolated area.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are noted.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

7nights per stay
cumulative maximum of 7 nights within any rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy is six guests per cabin.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov. Changes or cancellations are subject to fees.

Site SizeThe cabin has limited space but accommodates up to six guests. It is described as small for groups but perfect for two people.

PrivacySecluded environment due to its remote location on the bluff above the beach.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose low tide for easier access to stairs. User reviews suggest bringing dry firewood and plenty of kerosene for the stove.

Best CampsitesThe cabin works well for two people but feels tight with more. Reviews mention it's small for groups but cozy for couples. The wood stove can be temperamental, so bring 1-2 gallons of kerosene per day and patience. The outhouse doors warp and don't close properly. High tide or strong winds sometimes complicate beach access via the steps from the bluff.

Need help booking Paulson Bay Cabin?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Water and electricity are not available. Guests must bring their own supply of drinking water or treat water from nearby natural sources.

Fire rings

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Paulson Bay Cabin

Paulson Bay Cabin provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and hunting, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts. "Fishing is good for chum and pink salmon, usually from late July through August. Guests can also catch shrimp and bottom fish. Hunting for bear and waterfowl is available in season with the proper permits." Kayaking is popular but requires consulting tide reports due to submerged rock ledges.

Wildlife viewing4.5/5Top 22% in Alaska

Water Sports4.5/5Top 4% in Alaska

Fishing4.0/5

Beach activities4.0/5Top 23% in Alaska

Beachcombing, observing salmon and bears on the shore directly below the bluff are common activities.

Hiking3.0/5

Easy hiking with minimal brush; 0.75 mi route to a creek from the cabin.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Remote, low-light location implies good dark skies, though long summer daylight limits viewing season.

Photography4.5/5Spectacular coastal panoramas, wildlife and glacier-carved mountains provide strong photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The cabin includes a composting toilet that requires users to add peat after use.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Paulson Bay Cabin

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From Booking Sources

4.2

22 reviews

Satisfactory

Paulson Bay Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews praise the cabin's views, proximity to wildlife, and opportunities for recreation such as kayaking and fishing. However, they also highlight maintenance issues, including a temperamental kerosene stove and warped outhouse doors.

Review Summaries

Based on 22 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently mention the cabin's spectacular views, abundant wildlife, and unique location. "Paulson Bay cabin was amazing! We went to Alaska to visit my husband's cousins and they suggested the...

Based on 22 reviews

Common Concerns

Maintenance issues such as a warped outhouse door and unreliable kerosene stove are recurring complaints. "Kerosene stove was temperamental, no lime in the outhouse and the door did not close...

Based on 22 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site G06 is mentioned frequently, with users highlighting its views, proximity to wildlife, and small size. "Holds less people and has less flat room than Pigot Bay cabin, but I think I like this one...

Based on 22 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring kerosene for the stove (1-2 gallons/day recommended), pack your own drinking water or filtration system, and pre-arrange logistics with a boat charter. "We brought 2 gallons and that was plenty...

Based on 22 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight clear weather and wildlife viewing, while winter reviews emphasize the need for additional heating fuel and preparation for inclement weather.

Based on 22 reviews

Camper Quotes

"We stayed for 2 nights at the cabin and had the most perfect weather - sun, blue skies, and calm waters." "Cabin was awesome, only downside is it extremely hard to get a reservation." "Saw 4...

Based on 22 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features.

Based on 22 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews mention pets or pet policies.

Based on 22 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Paulson Bay Cabin

$50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-783-3242

Go if

You want a true backcountry experience with marine access and don't mind tide-dependent landings.

Skip if

You need road access, modern amenities, or guaranteed all-weather boat landings.

Nearby Campgrounds

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

Shrode Lake Cabin is a remote Forest Service rental in Chugach National Forest near Girdwood, accessible only by floatplane or a challenging overland route. Operated by the Glacier Ranger District, this single cabin sits on the shore of Shrode Lake with a provided rowboat for fishing and exploring. Visitors come for solitude, wildlife viewing (black bears, bald eagles), and backcountry fishing during the summer season when the lake is ice-free.

Paulson Bay Cabin

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Paulson Bay Cabin

Campground Map

Weather at Paulson Bay Cabin

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Paulson Bay Cabin

Planning Tips

About Paulson Bay Cabin

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Paulson Bay Cabin?

Amenities available

Things to do at Paulson Bay Cabin

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Go if

Skip if

Featured in these camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Paulson Bay Cabin

Current alerts(9)

Best Time to Camp at Paulson Bay Cabin

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Paulson Bay Cabin?

Amenities available

Things to do at Paulson Bay Cabin

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews