Karta Lake Cabin

Star4.30
16 reviews
KARTA LAKE CABIN, PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

194 ft

Price

$35 - $55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 01, 2025. C...

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
Karta Lake Cabin
$35.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly rates vary by season. During peak season (May 01 - September 30, 2025), the nightly rate is $55. During non-peak season (October 01 -...
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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
907-828-3304
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What Campers Say

4.30

Satisfactory

Based on 16 reviews

3 Google reviews

"User reviews suggest mixed experiences, with positive feedback on the scenic setting, wildlife, and improved amenities like the wood stove, offset by concerns about trail maintenance and availability of supplies."

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Campground Map

KARTA LAKE CABIN, PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA

Karta Lake Cabin

KARTA LAKE CABIN, PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA

Driving directionsKarta Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane or boat and trail from Karta Bay. By boat, the cabin is approximately 10 miles from Hollis, and an additional 1.5 miles by trail from Karta Bay. The cabin is located approximately 34 air miles from Ketchikan. Be aware that in fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible to float planes due to a frozen lake surface. Access by helicopter is illegal. Inclement weather conditions may cause extensions of trips during any time of the year, so guests should bring extra supplies to last 2-5 days.
The cabin can only be reached by float plane or boat and trail. Seasonal weather conditions such as frozen lake surfaces in fall, winter, and early spring may limit accessibility. Snow and ice conditions make winter access challenging.
Nearby places
Hollis (10 miles by boat), Ketchikan (34 air miles)
Nearby supplies
Bio bricks can be purchased in Ketchikan or on Prince of Wales Island. Visitors must bring all food, water, and supplies as none are provided at the site.

Best Time to Camp at Karta Lake Cabin

Summer brings the gentle warmth of the Alaskan coast, with temperatures hovering between a refreshing 55°F and a pleasant 67°F—perfect for long days of exploration without the sweltering heat found elsewhere. Morning mists rise from the lake as moderate rainfall keeps the forest lush and vibrant. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a crystalline wonderland, though ice and snow can make the journey here a true adventure in itself.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5

Peak season May–Sep; pleasant 55–67°F, best time for hiking, fishing and boating.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Shoulder season good for fishing and solitude but weather cools and trails may be rough.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring opens May 1; anglers and hikers visit but trails and supply issues noted early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Snow/ice limit accessibility; site is primarily used in warmer months and may be closed or difficult in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 01, 2025 - September 30, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 01, 2025. Closed December 31, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal access restrictions due to frozen lake surfaces from fall to early spring. Visitors should prepare for possible trip extensions due to inclement weather.

About Karta Lake Cabin

Escape to the edge of the world at Karta Lake Cabin, where a rustic cedar log retreat awaits in the heart of Prince of Wales Island's pristine wilderness. Nestled within the vast Tongass National Forest of southeastern Alaska, this remote sanctuary offers adventurers an authentic Alaskan experience where ancient forests meet crystal waters, and the only sounds are the splash of jumping salmon and the haunting call of trumpeter swans echoing across the lake.
Karta Lake Cabin offers primitive camping in a pre-cut cedar log cabin, emphasizing self-sufficiency and wilderness immersion.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
12 p.m.
Check-out
12 p.m.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Karta Lake Cabin offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating in a remote and scenic wilderness setting. Activities are suited for individuals seeking solitude and engagement with nature.
HikingHiking opportunities include the 5-mile Karta River Trail, which connects Karta Bay to Salmon Lake, offering access to fishing spots and scenic views. However, reviews indicate the trail may require maintenance.
FishingFishing is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch rainbow and cutthroat trout, Dolly Varden, and various salmon species. Visitors may need to consult local fishing regulations, including potential catch-and-release policies.
BoatingAn aluminum skiff with oars is available for exploring the lake, although visitors must bring their own personal flotation devices.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, including wolves, black bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, trumpeter swans, and other waterfowl. Wildlife viewing is a highlight of the experience.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include black bears, challenging weather conditions, and icy trails during winter.
Active AlertsSeasonal access restrictions due to frozen lake surfaces from fall to early spring. Visitors should prepare for possible trip extensions due to inclement weather.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Karta Lake Cabin

Reviews

4.3
16 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Karta Lake Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews suggest mixed experiences, with positive feedback on the scenic setting, wildlife, and improved amenities like the wood stove, offset by concerns about trail maintenance and availability of supplies.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews

What Campers Love

The cabin setting is described as 'beautiful' and 'one of my favorite places in the world.' Several users praised the new wood stove for heating.
Based on 16 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the lack of provided firewood and the need for trail maintenance. One reviewer described the trail as 'in need of serious work.'
Based on 16 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies, as the cabin lacks amenities like firewood, potable water, and lighting. Preparation for potential weather delays and extra supplies is advised.
Based on 16 reviews

Seasonal Insights

In warmer months, visitors enjoy fishing and hiking, although some complained about the trail conditions. Winter visitors should be prepared for snow and ice, which may limit accessibility. Sockeye...
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Based on 16 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful area! One of my favorite places in the world. Trail needs some serious work though.' - Paul B 2. 'Although we were a little late for sockeye or early run silvers, we did have beautiful...
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Based on 16 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsite T05, Loop AREA KARTA LAKE CABIN, received feedback suggesting mixed experiences, with positive notes on its scenic appeal and improved heating facilities.
Based on 16 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features are not specifically mentioned in reviews, and the primitive nature of the cabin and trail conditions may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 16 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not explicitly addressed in the available information.
Based on 16 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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