Upper Russian Lake Cabin

Star3.93
28 reviews
Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, Seward, AK, USA, 99664
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

712 ft

Price

$50 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 1 - Dec 31....

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Seward Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Upper Russian Lake Cabin
$50.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The facility charges $75/night during peak season (May 1 - Sept 30) and $50/night during non-peak season (Oct 1 - Dec 31). Additional fees include a...
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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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Provider
907-288-3178
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What Campers Say

3.93

Mixed Reviews

Based on 28 reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocationlake

"User reviews for Upper Russian Lake Cabin are mixed, with most praising its rustic charm and remote location while noting issues like bear activity, rowboat condition, and occasional overcrowding due to cyclists."

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Campground Map

Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, Seward, AK, USA, 99664

Upper Russian Lake Cabin

Seward Ranger District, 33599 Ranger Station Spur, Seward, AK, USA, 99664

Driving directionsAccess to the cabin is via the Russian Lakes Trail, 9 miles from the Russian Lakes Trailhead on Snug Harbor Road or 12 miles from the Russian Lakes Trailhead located in Russian River Campground. Winter parking is located at mile 9 of Snug Harbor Road, though the last 3 miles are not plowed in winter. Winter parking for Lower Russian Lakes Trailhead is located 1 mile back on the campground road, with the last mile also unplowed. Winter travelers must evaluate avalanche and over-ice conditions. Motorized access is prohibited year-round, and the trail is closed to horse/pack stock from April 1 to June 30.
The cabin is accessible via Russian Lakes Trail, requiring hiking, biking, skiing, horseback, snowmobile, or floatplane travel. Snug Harbor Road's last 3 miles are unplowed during winter, making seasonal access challenging. Motorized access is prohibited year-round.
Nearby places
Seward is the nearest city, but specific distances are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Visitors must bring their own food and supplies, including water, bedding, sleeping pads, cooking utensils, and clothing. Details about the nearest groceries or fuel stations are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Upper Russian Lake Cabin

Experience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Upper Russian Lake. Winter blankets the landscape in snow, creating a crystalline wonderland perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, though temperatures frequently dip below freezing. As summer arrives, the forest awakens under mild temperatures and longer days filled with golden light. Be prepared for Alaska's famously changeable weather any time of year, and note that winter snow and spring thaw can temporarily limit trail access to this remote retreat.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season May–Sept; scenic and active, though salmon/bear activity and crowds occur in summer.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Shoulder season with good scenery and fewer crowds; salmon and bear activity may continue.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 1; variable conditions with lingering snow and mixed reviewer experiences.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.5 / 5

Open through Dec 31 for skiing/snowshoeing but reviews note deep snow, access issues and cold prep needs.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 - September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 1 - Dec 31. Reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance.

About Upper Russian Lake Cabin

Step back in time at Upper Russian Lake Cabin, where the spirit of 1950s Alaska lives on in this lovingly restored trapper's lodge. Nestled deep within the Chugach National Forest, this authentic log cabin beckons adventurers seeking an escape from the modern world. Cast your line into the pristine waters of Upper Russian Lake, paddle along its peaceful shores, or set out on wilderness trails where moose and bears roam freely. Here, in this pocket of untouched backcountry, you'll discover the kind of solitude and natural splendor that has drawn outdoor enthusiasts to Alaska for generations.
Upper Russian Lake Cabin offers rustic, backcountry lodging with bunk space and minimal facilities. It is suitable for groups up to eight people and requires visitors to bring their own amenities.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Three consecutive nights maximum per person from May 15 to Aug. 31.

Amenities available

Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Upper Russian Lake Cabin offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, boating, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling (seasonally), and wildlife viewing. Seasonal hunting opportunities for moose, bears, and wolves are also available.
HikingThe cabin can be accessed via the Russian Lakes Trail, either 9 miles from the Russian Lakes Trailhead on Snug Harbor Road or 12 miles from the Russian Lakes Trailhead located at Russian River Campground. Hiking trails in the area are popular, with some reviewers describing the arduous nature of the trail.
FishingFishing opportunities include Dolly Varden and rainbow trout on Upper Russian Lake. Fishing permits are required, and a rowboat with oars is provided at the cabin. Users have noted issues with the rowboat, such as leaks, which should be addressed.
BikingMountain biking is a popular activity at the site, and some reviewers have noted interactions with cyclists near the cabin.
BoatingA rowboat with oars is provided at the cabin, allowing for boating on Upper Russian Lake. However, some reviews mention that the boat has a large hole, which has been temporarily repaired.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include bears, moose, wolves, and salmon entering the lake. User reviews frequently mention bear sightings and encounters near the cabin.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is common in the area, particularly near the cabin and during salmon season. Visitors must be prepared for wildlife encounters. Snow and avalanche risks affect winter access.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Upper Russian Lake Cabin

Reviews

3.9
28 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Upper Russian Lake Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Upper Russian Lake Cabin are mixed, with most praising its rustic charm and remote location while noting issues like bear activity, rowboat condition, and occasional overcrowding due to cyclists.
Review Summaries
Based on 28 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews emphasize the cabin's historic charm, scenic location, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. 'My favorite cabin of the three on the Russian Lakes Trail. It is the most authentic,...
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Based on 28 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include bear activity near the cabin, issues with the rowboat such as leaks, occasional overcrowding from hikers and cyclists, and the need for signage to prevent uninvited...
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Based on 28 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from reviewers include bringing adequate supplies, being cautious of bear activity, and preparing for the arduous hike to the cabin. 'Beware! Bears near.' - Nathan P.
Based on 28 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest that bear activity is prevalent in warmer months when salmon are present in the river. Winter reviews highlight the need for wood and cold weather preparedness.
Based on 28 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Well maintained backcountry cabin on the shore of upper Russian lake with a stream running right next to it.' - Jonathan T. 'The chairs on the porch are amazing to kick back and relax after the hike...
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Based on 28 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific site reviews highlight interactions near site S04, including issues like overcrowding from cyclists and the need for signage.
Based on 28 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 28 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not directly address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 28 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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