Josephine Lake Cabin
01 reviewP.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK, 99921, USA
Quick Facts
1,800 ftPrice
$25 - $30/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open May 1, 2025 thr...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
1,800 ftPrice
$25 - $30/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Open May 1, 2025 thr...
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Josephine Lake Cabin
$25.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary by season: $30 per night during peak season (May 1 - Sept 30), and $25 per night during non-peak season (Oct 1 - Dec 31)....
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider907-826-3271
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 1 reviews
Most mentioned
lake
"The reviews are mixed, with one review specifically citing significant maintenance issues at the cabin. The overall sentiment leans negative due to these problems, despite the natural beauty of the setting."
Fees & Passes at Josephine Lake Cabin
$25 - $30/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Cancellation: Cancellations made less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first nig...
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Tongass National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Josephine Lake Cabin
Mother Nature rules supreme at Josephine Lake, where seasonal transformations create dramatically different experiences throughout the year. Winter blankets the landscape in snow and ice, creating a pristine wonderland that challenges even seasoned adventurers with difficult access conditions. As temperatures drop, the lake surface freezes solid through fall, winter, and early spring, preventing float plane landings. Mid-summer emerges as the golden window for visitors, when wildflowers paint the meadows and perfect conditions invite outdoor exploration.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 01, 2025 - September 30, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open May 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.
About Josephine Lake Cabin
Perched at 1,800 feet above sea level on Prince of Wales Island, Josephine Lake Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. This remote sanctuary in southeastern Alaska transforms visitors into explorers, offering pristine fishing waters, rugged hiking trails, and prime wildlife viewing opportunities. When mid-summer arrives, the alpine landscape bursts into a spectacular wildflower display, while kayakers glide across crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering peaks.
Josephine Lake Cabin provides a unique remote camping experience with limited facilities. It is best suited for visitors seeking solitude and a rugged environment.
Historical SignificanceHidden treasures lie beneath the rugged terrain surrounding Josephine Lake, where quartz and epidote crystals tell ancient geological stories. The area's mining heritage lives on through both active and idle claims that dot the nearby landscape, remnants of Alaska's prospecting past. While these claims on private lands remain off-limits to modern-day treasure seekers, they add an intriguing layer of history to this remote wilderness destination.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Josephine Lake, where seasonal transformations create dramatically different experiences throughout the year. Winter blankets the landscape in snow and ice, creating a pristine wonderland that challenges even seasoned adventurers with difficult access conditions. As temperatures drop, the lake surface freezes solid through fall, winter, and early spring, preventing float plane landings. Mid-summer emerges as the golden window for visitors, when wildflowers paint the meadows and perfect conditions invite outdoor exploration.
ElevationAt 1,800 feet elevation, Josephine Lake Cabin occupies a true alpine paradise where the air grows thin and the views grow spectacular. This lofty perch places visitors in the heart of Alaska's rugged high country, where the landscape transforms into a world of stunted trees, rocky outcrops, and sweeping vistas that stretch to distant horizons.
Natural Features and SceneryJosephine Lake's pristine waters mirror the dramatic peaks that rise to 4,000 feet, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and sky. The cabin rests on the shoreline of this cold, crystalline alpine lake, where rugged terrain gives way to patches of hardy vegetation clinging to life in the thin mountain air. Stunted trees bend against prevailing winds, while mid-summer transforms the harsh landscape into a painter's palette of vibrant wildflowers that carpet the meadows in brilliant hues.
Geological RegionDeep within the vast Tongass National Forest, Josephine Lake Cabin claims its place on Prince of Wales Island, where southeastern Alaska's raw beauty reaches its zenith. This alpine wonderland showcases nature's extremes - from snow-crowned peaks soaring to 4,000 feet to valleys carved by ancient glaciers. The rugged terrain supports a unique ecosystem where stunted trees and specialized alpine vegetation thrive despite harsh conditions, creating a landscape that transforms dramatically with the seasons. When mid-summer arrives, wildflower blooms soften the rocky expanses, offering a fleeting glimpse of gentleness in this otherwise untamed wilderness.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information available regarding accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin sleeps up to six people, and additional space around the cabin is rugged and undeveloped.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a remote, isolated setting, offering a high degree of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe cabin accommodates up to six people. It is recommended to bring extra supplies for 2-5 days due to potential weather delays.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 12 p.m.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 p.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 6 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is a single primitive cedar log structure measuring 12 x 12 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1, 2025 through December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are available for this cabin, but walk-up availability is unlikely due to its remote nature.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee. Late cancellations or changes are not possible after the scheduled check-in date. No refunds are issued for early departures.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Josephine Lake Cabin offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities. 'Hiking, hunting, and wildlife viewing are popular pastimes for visitors to the cabin.' Although there are no fish in Josephine Lake, boating or kayaking provides a peaceful setting for wildlife observation. Visitors are also encouraged to explore the alpine terrain, particularly in mid-summer when wildflowers are in bloom.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in the area, with alpine terrain and mid-summer displays of wildflowers. There is no mention of marked trails or their difficulty levels.Boating
Boating or kayaking is encouraged on Josephine Lake. 'An aluminum skiff with oars is available for use,' but visitors must bring their own personal flotation devices.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as a key attraction, with abundant species such as Sitka black-tailed deer and black bears. Visitors are cautioned to follow bear safety protocols.Winter Activities
Winter access can be challenging due to snow and ice, and visitors may experience extended stays due to inclement weather. There is no indication of specific winter recreation activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking are supported, but visitors must bring their own equipment.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests must bring their own cook stoves and fuel. Wood stoves and open fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are not specified in provided materials.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area has abundant wildlife, including black bears. Guests should be familiar with bear safety protocols. Rugged terrain and inclement weather conditions pose additional risks.
Weather at Josephine Lake Cabin
36
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Thunderstorm
Precipitation: 1.6%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 93%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 11.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Thunderstorm
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are accessible from Craig, AK, approximately 28 air miles away. Contact the Craig Ranger District at 907-826-3271 for safety precautions.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01, 2025 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recycling'All garbage and food must be packed out.' There are no on-site trash or recycling facilities available.
Proximity to water featuresSituated on the shores of Josephine Lake, providing opportunities for kayaking and wildlife viewing.
Common complaints"The door was broken. The roof leaked. The oil leaked and we were afraid to start the stove for fear of burning the cabin down. Lake Josephine was gorgeous, but this cabin is not something they should be charging for. What a joke." - User Review by William L.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK, 99921, USA
Driving directionsAccess to Josephine Lake Cabin is by float plane only. The trip is 28 air miles from Craig and 38 air miles from Ketchikan. Guests must walk 75 yards uphill from the lake, which sits at an elevation of 1,800 feet. Refer to USGS maps Craig A-2 and B-2 for more information. Visitors should be aware that in fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible to float planes due to a frozen lake surface. Check with air charter companies on the status of the lake surface if reserving the cabin before June. Inclement weather conditions may cause extended stays during any time of the year and winter access can be difficult due to snow and ice conditions.
The site is remote and accessible only by float plane. Seasonal challenges such as frozen lake surfaces (fall through early spring) and snow and ice conditions in winter may make access difficult. Guests must arrange their own transportation and safety.Nearby places
Craig (28 air miles), Ketchikan (38 air miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Craig, AK, approximately 28 air miles from the cabin.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
1 reviews
Josephine Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews are mixed, with one review specifically citing significant maintenance issues at the cabin. The overall sentiment leans negative due to these problems, despite the natural beauty of the setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The natural surroundings, including the 'gorgeous' view of Lake Josephine and the remote, alpine terrain, are praised by visitors.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The cabin has significant maintenance issues, including a 'broken door,' 'leaking roof,' and a malfunctioning oil stove. One reviewer expressed concerns about the safety of using the stove.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to prepare for a rugged experience, bring all the necessary supplies, and check weather conditions in advance.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that summer is the most favorable time for visits, as mid-summer features wildflowers and better weather conditions. Winter access can be difficult, and extended stays due to...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Lake Josephine was gorgeous, but this cabin is not something they should be charging for. What a joke.'
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews are available regarding particular sites or areas within the campground.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no reviews available concerning pet policies or experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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0 review
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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