Shrode Lake Cabin

3.65

9 reviews

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

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

59 ft

Price

$50 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Glacier Ranger District, Chugach National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

59 ft

Price

$50 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Glacier Ranger District, Chugach National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Shrode Lake Cabin

$50.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Rates are seasonal: $60 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30) and $50 per night during non-peak season (October 1 - April 30)....

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

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-783-3242/null

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What Campers Say

3.65

Mixed Reviews

Based on 9 reviews

Most mentioned

viewspeacefullocationlake

"User reviews of Shrode Lake Cabin highlight its scenic beauty and peaceful setting but also note challenges such as poorly functioning kerosene heaters, unmarked trails, and inaccessible outhouse signage. The cabin offers a memorable backcountry experience but requires thorough preparation."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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

Shrode Lake Cabin

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

Driving directionsAccess by float plane is 45 minutes from Anchorage and 55 minutes from Cordova. By boat, the trip is 25 miles from Whittier into Long Bay, followed by a one-mile hike on a trail to reach the lake. The trailhead at Long Bay is tidal-dependent and best accessed at high tide with a small boat. For the Three Fingers Trailhead, guests must navigate a two-mile hike to the cabin, including a significant river crossing (Shrode River). Numerous rock hazards exist in the channel and lagoon. Boats are not provided by the Forest Service.

The cabin is extremely remote and inaccessible via the road system. Access varies depending on the season and mode of transportation. Float plane access may be unavailable during fall, winter, spring, and early summer due to frozen lake surfaces. Tidal conditions and rock hazards also affect boat access.

Nearby places

Anchorage (~45 minutes by float plane), Cordova (~55 minutes by float plane), Whittier (~25 miles by boat plus hiking trails).

Nearby supplies

/null

Best Time to Camp at Shrode Lake Cabin

Each season paints Shrode Lake in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing enthusiasts, though icy conditions can make access challenging. As spring awakens the wilderness, skiing opportunities persist while nature begins its annual renewal. Summer brings prime fishing and hiking conditions, though snow often lingers stubbornly until July, creating stunning contrasts of white peaks against emerald forests. Throughout the year, Alaska's famously mercurial weather keeps visitors on their toes, with freezing temperatures possible even as wildflowers bloom, making every day an adventure in adaptation.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is ideal for fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing; peak season May–Sep with many positive summer reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Late-summer salmon runs extend into fall; quieter season but cooler weather and fewer visitors.

Spring(Mar-May)

2.5 / 5

Heavy snow and difficult access in spring; reviewers warn careful planning is required.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 11% in AK

Open year-round; dramatic snowy scenery and skiing possible though access is harder and icy.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 - September 30 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Reservations are available seasonally: peak season (May 1 - September 30) and non-peak season (October 1 - April 30).
Current Alerts: /null

About Shrode Lake Cabin

Deep in the wilderness of Prince William Sound, Shrode Lake Cabin awaits those seeking a true backcountry escape. This remote year-round sanctuary challenges visitors to disconnect from the modern world and embrace Alaska's raw beauty. Whether you arrive by float plane gliding across pristine waters, navigate by boat through winding channels, or trek along rugged hiking trails, the journey itself becomes part of the adventure. With minimal amenities and maximum isolation, this rustic retreat demands careful preparation but rewards the intrepid with an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience few ever witness.

Shrode Lake Cabin offers a rustic cabin rental for visitors seeking a remote backcountry experience. It does not provide traditional tent or RV camping.

Historical Significance/null

Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Shrode Lake in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing enthusiasts, though icy conditions can make access challenging. As spring awakens the wilderness, skiing opportunities persist while nature begins its annual renewal. Summer brings prime fishing and hiking conditions, though snow often lingers stubbornly until July, creating stunning contrasts of white peaks against emerald forests. Throughout the year, Alaska's famously mercurial weather keeps visitors on their toes, with freezing temperatures possible even as wildflowers bloom, making every day an adventure in adaptation.

Elevation/null

Natural Features and SceneryPerched on the northeastern shore of Shrode Lake, the cabin offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater. The surrounding landscape weaves together a tapestry of spongy muskeg meadows and towering evergreen forests, all framed by majestic mountain peaks that pierce the Alaskan sky. This pristine wilderness serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife characters: massive black bears lumber through the understory, graceful Sitka black-tailed deer browse at forest edges, waterfowl paint patterns across the lake's mirror surface, and bald eagles soar overhead, their distinctive calls echoing across the water.

Geological RegionThe cabin sits at the heart of Prince William Sound's spectacular geological mosaic, where freshwater lakes nestle like jewels among saltwater bays and inlets. This unique ecosystem showcases Alaska's diverse terrain, from the springy muskeg bogs that carpet valley floors to dense evergreen forests climbing mountain slopes. The surrounding peaks stand as ancient sentinels over this wildlife paradise, where black bears fish for salmon, Sitka black-tailed deer navigate forest paths, waterfowl raise their young in protected coves, and bald eagles rule the skies. This convergence of land and water creates one of Alaska's most biodiverse and visually stunning regions.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

12:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum 7 nights per visit
maximum of 7 nights total within rolling 30 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Accommodates up to six people.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin facility with an outhouse located at a distance uphill.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityCabin is exclusively available via reservation; no walk-up availability mentioned.

Cancellation PolicyGuests may cancel reservations before scheduled arrival. A $10 fee applies, with additional fees for late cancellations, including forfeiture of the first night's fees. Late cancellations for cabins occur less than 14 days prior to arrival.

AccessibilityNo explicit accessibility features are mentioned. Challenging accessibility due to river crossings and lack of marked trails under certain conditions.

Site SizeThe cabin itself measures 16 x 16 feet and accommodates up to six people.

PrivacyThe cabin is located in a secluded area providing high privacy, surrounded by natural muskeg and evergreen forests.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesReviews recommend planning for secondary exit plans due to weather changes, bringing extra fuel for the heater, and consulting tide tables for boating.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Shrode Lake Cabin provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, hunting, and winter recreation activities. The area offers a backcountry experience with both marked and unmarked trails requiring route-finding skills.

HikingHiking options include a one-mile trail to Long Bay, a half-mile hike to Jack Lake (no designated trail), and primitive trails to Three Fingers Cove requiring river crossings and route-finding skills. User reviews reported difficulty locating trails and suggest better markers.

FishingFishing opportunities include sockeye salmon in mid-July, pink salmon from mid-July to mid-August, and silver salmon in late August. Dolly Varden trout can be fished in Shrode Lake. Saltwater fishing is available in Long Bay and the lagoon.

BoatingA small rowboat and oars are provided by the Forest Service, but guests must bring personal flotation devices. Tide tables are essential for navigation due to rock hazards in the lagoon. Canoeing, kayaking, and packrafting are possible.

Wildlife viewingWildlife such as black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, waterfowl, and bald eagles can be observed in the area. The cabin overlooks Shrode Lake and surrounding mountains, providing ideal viewing spots.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRiver crossings (Shrode River) can be hazardous due to high water levels, requiring the use of packrafts or similar gear. Wildlife such as black bears requires precautions. Weather changes can extend stays unexpectedly.

Active Alerts/null

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

Fire PolicyNo specific fire policies mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are /null

Emergency ServicesThe Glacier Ranger District Office in Girdwood can be contacted at (907) 783-3242. For air taxi services, contact providers in Anchorage or Cordova.

Trash & RecyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and leave the cabin clean. No recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated on Shrode Lake, near Long Bay, which is separated by a lagoon.

Camp Host/null

Weather at Shrode Lake Cabin

Reviews

3.7

9 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Shrode Lake Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Shrode Lake Cabin highlight its scenic beauty and peaceful setting but also note challenges such as poorly functioning kerosene heaters, unmarked trails, and inaccessible outhouse signage. The cabin offers a memorable backcountry experience but requires thorough preparation.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Scenic views of Shrode Lake and surrounding mountains; peaceful and secluded location; provision of a rowboat and oars; hunting and fishing opportunities; wildlife encounters including black bears...

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Poorly functioning kerosene heater with insufficient heat; lack of trail markings making navigation difficult; absence of outhouse signage leading to accessibility issues; challenging river crossings.

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra kerosene (1-2 gallons per day recommended); consult tide tables before boating; pack markers or flags for trail navigation in snowy conditions; prepare for cold temperatures and potential...

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter and spring months feature heavy snowfall, making access difficult and requiring careful planning. Summer months are ideal for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Many reviews highlight...

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The kerosene heater is worthless. It radiates almost no heat whatsoever." - Ian W. "Wonderful cabin with new outhouse and rowboat to use. Beautiful spot!" - Paul S. "Spent a week at the cabin, temps...

Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site G03 received mixed feedback regarding trail access and heater functionality. Scenic beauty and wildlife sightings were praised.

Based on 9 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility challenges were noted due to unmarked trails and river crossings, particularly in snowy conditions. Users recommended better signage and route markers.

Based on 9 reviews

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