Helm Bay Cabin

Star4.65
9 reviews
Fishing

Quick Facts

56 ft

Price

$65 - $80/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Tongass National Forest 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
Helm Bay Cabin
$65.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rates are $80 per night for the cabin, while non-peak season rates are $65 per night. Additional fees may apply for reservation changes...
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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
907-225-2148
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What Campers Say

4.65

Top-Rated

Based on 9 reviews

Most mentioned

location

"Helm Bay Cabin has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its scenic setting, excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities, and the rustic but functional facilities. Some criticisms focus on the lack of provided firewood."

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Campground Map

Helm Bay Cabin

55.6283, -131.9772

Driving directionsThe cabin is approximately 24 miles from Ketchikan or 12 miles from the Clover Pass area, located on the west end of Helm Bay. It is accessible by float plane, kayak, or boat, with a state-maintained floating dock near the cabin. Refer to USGS topographic map for Ketchikan, C-6, and consult local tide tables.
The cabin is located in a remote area and can only be accessed by float plane, kayak, or boat. Accessibility may be affected by weather conditions or tides. The floating dock is available on a first-come-first-served basis.
Nearby places
Ketchikan - 24 miles, Clover Pass area - 12 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely located in Ketchikan, approximately 24 miles away. Specific details about grocery stores or fuel stations are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Helm Bay Cabin

This coastal paradise showcases Alaska's dramatic seasonal personality. Summer months from May through September paint the landscape in vibrant greens under generally mild conditions, making it prime time for outdoor adventures. As autumn arrives, expect nature's full force with frequent rain showers that nourish the temperate rainforest. Winter transforms the cabin into a snow-kissed hideaway, where moderate to heavy snowfall blankets the surrounding forest in pristine white. Pack layers and rain gear year-round—the weather here changes as quickly as the tides.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

May–Sept is peak season; summer popular for fishing, crabbing and bay exploration.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Site open in non-peak season Oct–Dec but fewer reviews and potentially rougher weather.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring leads into peak season; improving weather and fishing but variable conditions early spring.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but no winter-specific feedback; likely harsh coastal winter conditions.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round. Peak season is May 1 through September 30, and non-peak season is October 1 through December 31.
  • Current Alerts: High levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) have been reported in the area.

About Helm Bay Cabin

Nestled on the pristine west shore of Helm Bay, this charming 16-by-20 ft. pan-abode cabin offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience. The three-room retreat, sheltered behind Forss Island, welcomes adventurers with its rustic appeal and modern comforts including a cozy wood stove and covered deck perfect for morning coffee. Whether you arrive by float plane skimming the water's surface, paddle in by kayak, or motor up by boat, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where old-growth rainforests meet the sea. Days here unfold with the rhythm of the tides—cast for salmon, drop crab pots in the bay, or explore hidden coves by kayak as eagles soar overhead.
Helm Bay Cabin offers a rustic lodging experience, tailored for those seeking a remote getaway in Alaska.
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 7 nights.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Helm Bay Cabin is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for fishing, crabbing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
FishingHelm Bay is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, including salmon, halibut, and red snapper. Consult tide tables for optimal fishing times.
BoatingBoating is a popular activity here, with a floating dock available on a first-come, first-served basis. Visitors can use kayaks, boats, or float planes to reach the site.
Wildlife viewingWildlife in the area includes black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goats, seals, whales, and other marine mammals.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe area is remote and wild, with potential hazards including bears, tides that affect accessibility, and high levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP). Weather conditions may also impact safety.
Active AlertsHigh levels of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP) have been reported in the area.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Helm Bay Cabin

Reviews

4.7
9 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Helm Bay Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Helm Bay Cabin has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its scenic setting, excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities, and the rustic but functional facilities. Some criticisms focus on the lack of provided firewood.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests highlight the excellent fishing and crabbing opportunities in Helm Bay. The cabin's scenic location and functional setup also receive praise.
Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

A recurring complaint is the lack of firewood at the site, despite the presence of a wood stove.
Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing firewood, cookware, and sleeping pads. One user suggested that providing shared cookware and vinyl-covered mattresses would enhance the experience.
Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer appears to be the most popular season for visits, with guests engaging in fishing, crabbing, and exploring the bay. There is no mention of winter-specific feedback.
Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Stayed here in 1999. Great cabin, awesome fishing and crabbing.' - Mark Watt 2. 'This particular cabin is one of the largest in this region.' - Mark Christensen 3. 'Thank goodness we brought our...
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Based on 9 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The site-specific reviews for Helm Bay Cabin (notably campsite K06) highlight the cabin's spacious setup and proximity to a freshwater stream. Complaints about missing firewood are consistent.
Based on 9 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is not specifically reviewed, though the remote location and need for self-sufficiency likely limit accessibility options.
Based on 9 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No pet-related reviews or policies are explicitly mentioned.
Based on 9 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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