How much does camping cost at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

Camping fees at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) 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 Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) first-come first-served or reservation?

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) 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 Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) before I book?

Yes! Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) has 5 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 Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) 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 Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) have?

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) 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 Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

Pets are not allowed at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak). This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What activities can I do at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

Popular activities at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)

Q: Can I have a campfire at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

Fire policies at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak): 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.

3 reviews

P.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping Alaska

Real-Time Availability

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Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The cabin is open fo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$25/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

The cabin is open fo...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)

$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) 826-3271

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

P.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921, USA

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)

P.O. BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921, USA

Nearby places

Ketchikan (50 air miles, approximately 1-hour floatplane travel time)

Weather at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)

Current alerts(8)

All garbage and food must be packed out
Learn more about Tongass National Forest
Recreating in Alaska can present both obvious and hidden dangers; please be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for extended stays due to occasionally poor weather
Same day reservation are available for this cabin

Best Time to Camp at Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)

Best season: summer. Summer delivers the clearest weather window and reliable access—daytime highs typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (7–18°C) with long daylight hours—making it the best time for hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is unfrozen by mid-June through early September, so water-based activities and backcountry approaches are safest and most productive, and wildflowers and subalpine meadows are at their peak. Crowds are still light compared with mainland Alaska lodges, but, Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: January, February, March, April

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Mid-June to early Sept is prime: lake thawed, wildflowers, floatplane access and pleasant days.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The cabin is open for reservations from May 1 to December 31, 2025. Access may be limited when the lake is frozen (October to mid-June).

About Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)

Black Bear Lake Cabin sits in the foothills of Tongass National Forest near Craig, Alaska, operated by the U.S. Forest Service. This remote backcountry rental offers primitive access to hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in a rugged Southeast Alaska setting. The cabin operates seasonally during peak summer months when the lake is ice-free and trails are passable.

Black Bear Lake Cabin is a primitive camping facility that offers a remote and minimalistic experience. It supports individual and small group stays.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer delivers the clearest weather window and reliable access—daytime highs typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (7–18°C) with long daylight hours—making it the best time for hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The lake is unfrozen by mid-June through early September, so water-based activities and backcountry approaches are safest and most productive, and wildflowers and subalpine meadows are at their peak. Crowds are still light compared with mainland Alaska lodges, but, Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: January, February, March, April

Elevation1700 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin sits 20 yards from a cold, crystalline lake surrounded by old-growth forest and rugged alpine terrain. Peaks rise toward 4,000 feet above the water. Dense stands of centuries-old trees give way to subalpine meadows at higher elevations. Black bears fish along the shoreline. Sitka black-tailed deer leave tracks across the landscape. The setting is classic southeastern Alaska rainforest: wet, green, and largely untouched.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin is a primitive lodging option with minimal amenities. It includes a wood stove, cooking counter, shelves, and an external toilet. Visitors must bring all necessary supplies, including sleeping bags, food, water, and lighting.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Visitors may stay up to 7 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 people can stay in the cabin.

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 through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe cabin requires a floatplane for access and a 20-yard walk from the lake to the cabin. Due to its remote location and rugged terrain, accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not specified.

Site SizeThe cabin measures 12x12 feet and can sleep up to six people.

PrivacyLocated 20 yards from the lake, surrounded by rugged alpine terrain and old-growth forest, the site offers significant privacy.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring essential items such as food, water, fire starter, cooking utensils, sleeping gear, and personal flotation devices. Treat water from the lake before use.

Best CampsitesThere's one site: the cabin itself. Wooden bunkbeds and a wood stove. That's it. Reviews mention the steep terrain, so factor that into your planning.

Need help booking Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Water is not available at the cabin; visitors must bring their own for drinking, cooking and cleaning, or treat any water from natural sources

Lodging and accommodations

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Black Bear Lake Cabin provides unique recreational opportunities like fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, boating, and hunting in the Tongass National Forest.

Hiking

Fishing

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 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.

Fire PolicyDon'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.

Trash & Recycling"All garbage and food must be packed out," indicating that there are no trash or recycling facilities on-site.

Cell Coverage"This facility is located in an extremely remote and wild area." Cell phone service is not mentioned and is likely unavailable due to its remote location.

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

3 reviews

Limited Reviews

Black Bear Lake Cabin (Tongass National Forest, Ak) has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

The cabin is appreciated for its serene and remote setting, but its steep terrain can be challenging.

Review Summaries

Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

"Very steep terrain but enjoyed our stay. Would go again." The remote location and scenic surroundings are highly praised.

Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of amenities such as running water and electricity may deter some visitors.

Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews tend to focus on the overall cabin experience rather than specific sites.

Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors should prepare for the steep terrain and bring all necessary supplies, including treated water and personal floatation devices.

Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

From mid-June to September, the lake is ice-free, making it accessible to floatplanes and ideal for summer activities.

Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Very steep terrain but enjoyed our stay. Would go again."

Based on 3 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No pet-related reviews are available.

Based on 3 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a backcountry experience in Southeast Alaska and can handle steep terrain and primitive conditions.

Skip if

You need vehicle access, developed amenities, or prefer flat, easy hiking terrain.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

3.6

(10)

Harris River Campground

PO BOX 500, CRAIG, AK 99921

Harris River Campground is a U.S. Forest Service site on Prince of Wales Island near Craig, offering free primitive camping along a salmon stream in the Tongass National Forest. The very small campground features spacious, private sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and access to hiking trails. Visitors come for fishing during summer salmon runs, wildlife viewing (including bears along the river), and boating, with the ferry terminal a short drive away.