How much does camping cost at John Muir Cabin?

Camping fees at John Muir Cabin range from $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is John Muir Cabin first-come first-served or reservation?

John Muir 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 John Muir Cabin before I book?

Yes! John Muir Cabin has 9 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 John Muir Cabin?

John Muir 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 John Muir Cabin?

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

Can I have a campfire at John Muir Cabin?

Fire policies at John Muir Cabin: 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.

How many campsites does John Muir Cabin have?

John Muir 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 John Muir Cabin?

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

What amenities are available at John Muir Cabin?

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

What activities can I do at John Muir Cabin?

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

John Muir Cabin

4.72

25 reviews

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Top 15% in AKWinter

Scenic Views

Featured in:Primitive Camping Alaska

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,550 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Juneau Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,550 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Juneau Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

John Muir Cabin

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

John Muir Cabin

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road

Nearby places

Juneau (13 miles northwest), travel time depends on hiking conditions.

Weather at John Muir Cabin

Current alerts(7)

Cabin is open to public as a warming shelter from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Click here for more information about Tongass National Forest
Please pack out all trash and food
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

Best Time to Camp at John Muir Cabin

Best season: summer. Summer offers the clearest trails, longest daylight, and the warmest temperatures (typically daytime highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s°F / 12–18°C) making approaches to the 1,550 ft cabin easier and safer. Wildflower meadows and subalpine vistas are at their peak in July and August, and hiking, wildlife viewing (mountain goats, birds, and occasional bears at lower elevations), and glacier/landscape photography are most rewarding. Crowds remain moderate compared with lowland Juneau hotspots—you’ll享 Peak months: July, August, June, September

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer easiest access; trail clear, wildflowers peak; meadow is buggy though.

Planning Tips

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

About John Muir Cabin

John Muir Cabin sits at 1,550 feet in the Tongass National Forest foothills above Juneau, accessible only by trail. Operated by the Juneau Ranger District, this remote rental cabin offers propane heat, vault toilets, and sweeping views of Auke Bay and surrounding peaks. Visitors hike in for wildlife viewing and subalpine solitude during the summer season.

The John Muir Cabin provides a unique backcountry camping experience within a rustic cabin setting. It is accessible by hiking, skiing, or snowshoeing and offers a secluded environment in a subalpine meadow.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the clearest trails, longest daylight, and the warmest temperatures (typically daytime highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s°F / 12–18°C) making approaches to the 1,550 ft cabin easier and safer. Wildflower meadows and subalpine vistas are at their peak in July and August, and hiking, wildlife viewing (mountain goats, birds, and occasional bears at lower elevations), and glacier/landscape photography are most rewarding. Crowds remain moderate compared with lowland Juneau hotspots—you’ll享 Peak months: July, August, June, September

Elevation1550 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin occupies a natural balcony overlooking the Gastineau Channel region. From this perch, views stretch across Juneau's waterfront to Auke Bay, out to Admiralty Island, and up to the Chilkat Mountains and distant ice fields. The subalpine meadow blooms with wildflowers in July and August. Mountain goats roam the higher slopes. The setting changes constantly as weather moves through. Sun giving way to mist, then clearing again to reveal new layers of peaks and coastline. In winter, everything goes white and quiet.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe John Muir Cabin is a chalet-style log cabin providing basic lodging accommodations. It is designed to accommodate up to 10 people with double bunks and a propane furnace. Visitors must bring their own supplies, including food and water.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 2 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The cabin accommodates up to 10 people comfortably.

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 at Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe cabin includes a ramp leading to the vault toilet, providing some accessibility for visitors.

Site SizeThe cabin is approximately 15'x12', with space to sleep about 10 people.

PrivacyThe site offers a quiet and secluded environment, surrounded by subalpine meadows and picturesque views.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommended for groups of up to 10. Bring water treatment supplies, winter gear like snowshoes, and bug spray for summer visits.

Need help booking John Muir Cabin?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

This 15'x12' chalet-style log cabin has two double bunks on the first floor and two bunks that can sleep six on the second floor. Other amenities include a table with benches, wood stove, broom and dustpan, snow shovel, propane furnace and a ramp and hardened trail to the vault toilet. Propane is provided. Water, firewood and electricity are not provided.

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The area around the John Muir Cabin offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. The cabin is located along the Auk Nu Trail, which connects to Auke Mountain and provides access to Spaulding Meadows. Winter activities include excellent cross-country skiing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy observing brown and black bears, bald eagles, and other wildlife species.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

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 ToiletsNo flush toilets are available; a vault toilet is provided and accessible via a hardened trail.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.7

25 reviews

Top-Rated

John Muir Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for the John Muir Cabin are overwhelmingly positive, with most reviewers praising the warmth, cleanliness, and scenic location of the cabin. Some common themes include the quality of the propane furnace, incredible views, and the well-maintained trail leading to the cabin.

Review Summaries

Based on 25 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praised the warmth provided by the propane furnace, the sturdy and spacious design of the cabin, and the breathtaking views of Juneau, Auke Bay, and surrounding peaks. Many...

Based on 25 reviews

Common Concerns

Some visitors mentioned challenges such as the need for better instructions for using the propane stove, slippery trail conditions due to rain, and the tannic water supply. One reviewer noted that...

Based on 25 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most reviews specifically mention the cabin itself (J04) as a highlight of the experience. The spiral staircase and elevated second floor are noted as unique features.

Based on 25 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing crampons or microspikes for winter hikes, packing tape to seal small gaps in window screens, and filling water bottles at streams along the trail instead of relying on the...

Based on 25 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews emphasize the need for crampons and preparation for icy conditions. Summer reviews highlight the presence of bugs in the meadow and the beauty of the hike. Fall reviews caution about...

Based on 25 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The propane stove was awesome, and the view was incredible!" - Sydney H. "The cabin was super-clean, toasty warm, and buffeted the 30 knot winds and driving rain well." - Sally S. "Amazing views and...

Based on 25 reviews

Accessibility Features

The ramp to the vault toilet is noted as a helpful feature, but the trail's slippery conditions could pose challenges for visitors with mobility concerns.

Based on 25 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a heated backcountry cabin with panoramic views and don't mind a steep hike in.

Skip if

You need vehicle access or want to stay longer than two nights.

Nearby Campgrounds

Juneau Ranger District, 8510 Mendenhall Loop Road, JUNEAU, AK 99801, USA

Peterson Lake Cabin sits in the Tongass National Forest near Juneau, accessible by trail through Southeast Alaska's temperate rainforest. The US Forest Service operates this remote rental cabin with a skiff for lake access, vault toilet, and propane heat. Visitors hike in to fish, watch wildlife during salmon runs, and explore historical remnants around the lake.