How much does camping cost at Denver Caboose Cabin?

Camping fees at Denver Caboose Cabin are $45/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Denver Caboose Cabin first-come first-served or reservation?

Denver Caboose 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 Denver Caboose Cabin before I book?

Yes! Denver Caboose Cabin has 8 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 Denver Caboose Cabin?

Denver Caboose Cabin is open May 01 to September 30. 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 Denver Caboose Cabin?

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

Can I have a campfire at Denver Caboose Cabin?

Fire policies at Denver Caboose Cabin: Please collect dead/down wood only for use in the fire ring. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Denver Caboose Cabin have?

Denver Caboose 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 Denver Caboose Cabin?

Pets are not allowed at Denver Caboose Cabin. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Denver Caboose Cabin?

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

What activities can I do at Denver Caboose Cabin?

Popular activities at Denver Caboose Cabin include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Denver Caboose Cabin

5 reviews

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Featured in:Forest Camping Alaska

Quick Facts

413 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Tongass National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

413 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Tongass National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Denver Caboose Cabin

$45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $45.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-586-8800

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Denver Caboose Cabin

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Nearby places

Skagway (5.5 miles), Juneau (null distance)

Driving directionsThe cabin is approximately 5.5 miles north of Skagway along the East Fork of the Skagway River. The cabin is beside the railroad tracks at the Denver Glacier Trailhead. Access is via the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad from May 1 through September 30. Make reservations at least 24 hours in advance for train transportation. Rate information and reservations are available by calling the railroad at (800) 343-7373.

Weather at Denver Caboose Cabin

Current alerts(8)

Cabin cannot be reserved when railroad is not operating
Click here for more information about Tongass National Forest
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.
Please pack out all trash and food

Best Time to Camp at Denver Caboose Cabin

Best season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of mild, stable weather (daytime highs typically 50–65°F / 10–18°C, nights around 40–50°F) and very long daylight hours, making glacier hiking and extended wildlife-viewing outings easy and enjoyable. Trailheads, guided glacier trips to Denver Glacier, and the White Pass & Yukon Route railroad operate regularly from May–September, increasing accessibility. Expect peak wildlife activity (salmon runs, bears, eagles) and busier campground bookings in July–August,— Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Best season: summer. May–Sep open; mild temps and long daylight ideal for glacier hikes and wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations between May 1 and September 30; closed during the off-season.

About Denver Caboose Cabin

Denver Caboose Cabin sits along the historic White Pass & Yukon Route railroad corridor near Juneau, offering overnight stays in a refurbished railroad caboose. Managed by Tongass National Forest, this quirky lodging provides access to the Denver Glacier Trail and wildlife viewing in a remote setting. Guests appreciate the solitude after tourist trains stop running, though morning rail traffic resumes early.

The Denver Caboose Cabin is a unique, remote accommodation option available for reservation during the summer months (May 1 to September 30). It is a self-sufficient, rustic lodging experience designed for outdoor enthusiasts.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the best combination of mild, stable weather (daytime highs typically 50–65°F / 10–18°C, nights around 40–50°F) and very long daylight hours, making glacier hiking and extended wildlife-viewing outings easy and enjoyable. Trailheads, guided glacier trips to Denver Glacier, and the White Pass & Yukon Route railroad operate regularly from May–September, increasing accessibility. Expect peak wildlife activity (salmon runs, bears, eagles) and busier campground bookings in July–August,— Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation413 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe East Fork Skagway River flows through dense spruce and hemlock rainforest at 413 feet elevation. The Sawtooth Mountains rise in the distance. Visitors report frequent wildlife sightings: black bears, moose, mountain goats, and eagles, especially during summer salmon runs. The stream near the cabin runs silty, so bring water purification equipment.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe Denver Caboose Cabin itself acts as a unique lodging option, accommodating up to six guests with a layout that includes a double bunk, four single bunks, and an 'observatory penthouse.' However, visitors are required to bring their own bedding, heating oil, and supplies for a self-catered stay.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The cabin can accommodate up to 6 guests.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites available.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov. Train transport must also be reserved in advance via the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad at (800) 343-7373.

Site SizeThe cabin sleeps six people and contains sleeping arrangements with a double bunk and four single bunks. The narrow dimensions of the cabin may feel cramped for larger groups.

PrivacyThe cabin is isolated and offers significant privacy overnight. However, during the day, trains pass by with tourists, reducing privacy during those hours.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring bedding, treated water, and heating oil. Plan hikes to Denver Glacier and consider taking the train to nearby Laughton Glacier for additional exploration.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site: the caboose itself. It has a double bunk and four single bunks. Nathan P. noted the trail to Denver Glacier is beautifully maintained.

Need help booking Denver Caboose Cabin?

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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 and electricity are not provided. Water is available from a nearby stream uphill from the cabin, but visitors should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety tips ). It is recommended that visitors bring their own water supply. The cabin sleeps six people and contains a double bunk and four single bunks. This includes a bunk in the nicknamed "observatory penthouse" that has windows on all sides and an access ladder. Other amenities include a table with benches, an oil heater (#1 stove oil), food preparation space, a campfire ring and an outhouse.

Fire rings

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Denver Caboose Cabin

The Denver Caboose Cabin provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping in a rugged and scenic environment. Key activities include hiking the 4.5-mile trail to Denver Glacier and observing local wildlife such as black bears, moose, and mountain goats. The area is also ideal for photography and enjoying solitude in the Alaskan wilderness.

Wildlife viewing4.5/5Top 22% in Alaska

Frequent sightings of black bears, moose, mountain goats, eagles and salmon runs noted.

Hiking4.0/5

A 4.5-mile trail to Denver Glacier starts at the cabin, with scenic overlooks and glacier access.

A 4.5-mile trail to Denver Glacier starts at the cabin site, following the East Fork of the Skagway River. This trail provides scenic overlooks and opportunities to explore the rugged terrain. However, the trail becomes nearly impassable towards the end, as mentioned in user reviews like Linda M's, who described it as 'almost impassible at the end.' Nathan P also highlighted that the trail is 'beautifully maintained and gets little use.'

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Not sure what to pack?Our complete 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 has an outhouse for visitor use.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

5 reviews

Limited Reviews

Denver Caboose Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with highlights being the cabin's unique structure, solitude, and wilderness experience. Visitors appreciate the proximity to the Denver Glacier Trail and stunning natural surroundings. However, some concerns include the intrusion of tourist trains during the day and the lack of curtains for privacy.

Review Summaries

Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

- Unique experience staying in a refurbished railroad caboose - Proximity to the Denver Glacier Trail - Solitude and peacefulness at night - Opportunities for wildlife viewing - 'The trail is...

Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

- Lack of curtains, reducing privacy during the day when trains pass - Issues with the double bunk setup, as noted by Linda M: 'Instructions inside the cabin gave detailed info on how to convert the...

Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most reviews center around the unique layout and rustic accommodations. Some users, like Nathan P, noted that the cabin's size might feel cramped for larger groups, while Bhreagh D found it spacious...

Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

- Bring water purification equipment due to silt in the nearby stream. - Plan your activities to avoid tourist train schedules if you value privacy. - Bring proper bedding and heating oil for a...

Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The cabin is only open during the summer months, from May 1 to September 30. Visitors appreciate the solitude and wilderness experience, but daytime train activity during peak tourist season can...

Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This stands out as one of the best Alaskan experiences we had. After the last train left we were all alone in Alaska and it was so peaceful.' - Linda M. 2. 'Remote and amazing stay right next to...

Based on 5 reviews