How much does camping cost at Shipley Bay Cabin?

Camping fees at Shipley Bay Cabin range from $25/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

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

Shipley 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 Shipley Bay Cabin before I book?

Yes! Shipley Bay Cabin has 6 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 Shipley Bay Cabin?

Shipley 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 Shipley Bay Cabin?

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

How many campsites does Shipley Bay Cabin have?

Shipley 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 Shipley Bay Cabin?

Pets are not allowed at Shipley 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 Shipley Bay Cabin?

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

What activities can I do at Shipley Bay Cabin?

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

Shipley Bay Cabin

2 reviews

SHIPLEY BAY CABIN, PO BOX 19001

Featured in:Fishing Camping Alaska

Real-Time Availability

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Quick Facts

2,592 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 01 - Decemb...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Thorne Bay Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,592 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 01 - Decemb...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Thorne Bay Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Shipley Bay Cabin

$25.00 - $25.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $25.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-828-3304

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

SHIPLEY BAY CABIN, PO BOX 19001

Shipley Bay Cabin

SHIPLEY BAY CABIN, PO BOX 19001

Nearby places

Thorne Bay (null miles, null travel time)

Driving directionsShipley Bay Cabin is accessible by float plane or one-hour boat ride from El Capitan dock. Fog, high winds, and low tides can make landing at the cabin difficult. A mooring buoy in the bay is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Mooring of more than one vessel is allowed if the first party there agrees. Guests are advised to check Sitka tide table information and refer to USGS map Petersburg A-5.

Weather at Shipley Bay Cabin

Best Time to Camp at Shipley Bay Cabin

Best season: summer. Summer offers the mildest, most reliable weather (typically daytime highs 50–65°F / 10–18°C) and the easiest access by floatplane or boat, making it ideal for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Salmon runs, whale and sea otter sightings, long daylight hours and calmer seas peak June–August, while morning fog and afternoon winds remain the main weather quirks. Because Shipley Bay is remote, crowds stay light even in summer, so you get peak wildlife/activity opportunities without the busy-van Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: January, February, March, April

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

June–Aug: calmer seas, long daylight, salmon runs and whale migration; best access window.

Planning Tips

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

About Shipley Bay Cabin

Shipley Bay Cabin sits on Prince of Wales Island in Tongass National Forest, accessible only by floatplane or boat. Operated by the Thorne Bay Ranger District, this remote rental cabin offers vault toilets and a wood stove, with a trail leading to Shipley Lake for fishing and wildlife viewing. Guests regularly spot bears, wolves, sea otters, and whales during summer salmon runs.

The Shipley Bay Cabin provides a unique and primitive camping experience. It’s suitable for small groups looking for remote, rugged accommodations.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the mildest, most reliable weather (typically daytime highs 50–65°F / 10–18°C) and the easiest access by floatplane or boat, making it ideal for fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Salmon runs, whale and sea otter sightings, long daylight hours and calmer seas peak June–August, while morning fog and afternoon winds remain the main weather quirks. Because Shipley Bay is remote, crowds stay light even in summer, so you get peak wildlife/activity opportunities without the busy-van Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: January, February, March, April

Elevation2592 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin overlooks a rocky beach that shifts with the tides, bordered by grassy tidal flats where shorebirds and waterfowl gather. Shipley Creek flows on one side, Shipley Bay on the other. Bald eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, black bears, wolves, sea otters, and whales all appear regularly. On clear days, 2,592-foot Mount Francis stands visible in the distance. Reviews mention abundant wildlife: "We saw many bears, several wolves and the sea life was abundant." The trail to Shipley Lake exists but hasn't been maintained, making access difficult without machete work.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin itself serves as the primary lodging, with space for 4-6 people. No other accommodations are available on-site.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are specified.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 7 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The cabin sleeps 4-6 guests.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe cabin's remote location and requirement for either a float plane or boat for access may not make it readily accessible to individuals with physical disabilities. No specific accessibility adaptations are mentioned.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates a maximum of 4-6 guests, with dimensions of 12 feet by 14 feet.

PrivacyThe site is secluded, located on a low bluff between Shipley Creek and Shipley Bay, offering privacy and a scenic surrounding.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesCarry good maps and tools for orienteering on the rugged trail to Shipley Lake. Bring extra supplies lasting 2-5 days due to potential weather-related delays.

Need help booking Shipley 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

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Amenities available

Shipley Bay Cabin is a primitive, pre-cut 12x14-foot cedar log cabin in southeastern Alaska with very basic amenities. The cabin includes wooden bunkbeds (without mattresses) accommodating 4-6 people, a table, benches, a small stove for heating, and an outdoor toilet. Additional features include a cooking counter, a fire extinguisher, and a broom. Notably, the cabin lacks running water and electricity. Guests must bring their own water, which can be sourced from a nearby stream and treated for safety, as well as other essentials like food, sleeping gear, cooking equipment, and lighting.

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Shipley Bay Cabin offers a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. The area provides opportunities for anglers to catch various fish species, while hikers and wildlife enthusiasts can explore the natural terrain.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our 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 site includes an outdoor toilet.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

2 reviews

Limited Reviews

Shipley Bay Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the breathtaking natural beauty of the area, abundant wildlife, and opportunities for fishing and hiking. However, complaints have been raised about the lack of trail maintenance and the difficulty of accessing certain areas.

Review Summaries

Based on 2 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciate the serene and scenic location, noting, 'The cabin is in a beautiful area, lots of wildlife and has been fixed up since last year.' Another reviewer mentioned, 'The area is...

Based on 2 reviews

Common Concerns

Several users expressed frustration over the poorly maintained trail to Shipley Lake. One reviewer noted, 'The "trail" to Shipley Lake from the cabin has not been brushed out in years. We spent 3...

Based on 2 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific complaints about the trail maintenance to Shipley Lake suggest that hiking from the cabin to the lake is particularly challenging. The mooring buoy in the bay receives positive mentions for...

Based on 2 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing ample supplies, including bio-bricks for the stove and extra equipment for navigating unmaintained trails. They also stress the importance of being prepared for potential...

Based on 2 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The best time to visit appears to be during the warmer months when fishing is ideal, and snow and ice are less likely to impede access. However, mid-summer may see challenges with overgrown trails.

Based on 2 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'The cabin is in a beautiful area, lots of wildlife and has been fixed up since last year.' - 'The "trail" to Shipley Lake from the cabin has not been brushed out in years. We spent 3 days brushing...

Based on 2 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews about accessibility are available. However, the remote location and rugged terrain suggest limited access for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 2 reviews