Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak)

4.65

7 reviews

HOONAH RANGER DISTRICT, 430 A AIRPORT ROAD, P.O. BOX 135, Hoonah, AK 99829, USA

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Alaska

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$55 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season is from ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Hoonah Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

69 ft

Price

$55 - $70/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season is from ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Hoonah Ranger District site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak)

$55.00 - $70.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates are $70 per night from April 15 to November 29, and non-peak rates are $55 per night from November 30 to December 31. Rates do not...

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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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

907-945-3631wdick@fs.fed.us

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What Campers Say

4.65

Top-Rated

Based on 7 reviews

"User reviews generally praise Kennel Creek Cabin for its spaciousness, well-maintained facilities, and scenic location. Visitors enjoy the wood stove and the hunting and fishing opportunities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

HOONAH RANGER DISTRICT, 430 A AIRPORT ROAD, P.O. BOX 135, Hoonah, AK 99829, USA

Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak)

HOONAH RANGER DISTRICT, 430 A AIRPORT ROAD, P.O. BOX 135, Hoonah, AK 99829, USA

Driving directionsKennel Creek Cabin is approximately 19 air miles southeast of Hoonah, Alaska, on the south shore of Freshwater Bay. Access is by vehicle, float plane, or boat. Total distance by gravel road is 27 miles. By road, travel south from Hoonah past the airport. When the road turns to gravel, drive 2 miles to the 'T' intersection, turn right toward Freshwater Bay. Drive 25 miles on National Forest System road 8502/8508, veer left at all 'Y' intersections. The cabin is located at the end of a short access road on your left. Road maps are available at the Hoonah Ranger District office during weekday business hours.

Automobile access is unavailable during winter months. Roads include gravel surfaces, and conditions may depend on weather and seasonal closures. Visitors are encouraged to check road conditions with the Hoonah Ranger District.

Nearby places

Hoonah (27 miles by gravel road, approximately 19 air miles southeast).

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are in the City of Hoonah, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel options. Exact locations of stores and fuel stations are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak)

Experience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Kennel Creek, where weather patterns paint an ever-changing canvas across Freshwater Bay. Winter brings crystalline beauty with freezing temperatures and snow-dusted evergreens, while spring and fall deliver the region's characteristic mix of misty rain and unexpected sunshine. Summer visitors enjoy the longest days and mildest conditions, though wise travelers always pack layers for Alaska's famously unpredictable weather. The sweetest weeks for camping typically arrive when moderate temperatures coincide with clear skies and low humidity – perfect conditions for wildlife watching and outdoor adventures. Moderate winds off the bay keep bugs at bay while adding a soundtrack of rustling forest canopy.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer reviews emphasize hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing; peak season activity.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall offers berry picking and hunting; good wildlife activity though weather cools.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Open from April 15; spring offers anadromous fish runs and good whale/marine life viewing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Top 22% in AK

Winter aesthetics noted (snowshoeing/snowmobiling) but site has limited winter openness and access.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15 to November 29.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season is from April 15 to December 31. Peak season runs from April 15 to November 29, and non-peak season is November 30 to December 31.

About Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak)

Nestled on the pristine south shore of Freshwater Bay, Kennel Creek Cabin offers an authentic Alaskan wilderness experience within the vast Tongass National Forest. This rustic cedar log retreat serves as your gateway to untamed nature, where the only sounds are rushing streams and distant whale songs. While the cabin provides shelter and basic comforts, adventurers should arrive self-sufficient, ready to embrace the primitive charm of Alaska's backcountry. Whether you're casting lines for salmon, tracking brown bears through ancient forests, or simply watching eagles soar above snow-capped peaks, this year-round sanctuary delivers the raw beauty that defines Southeast Alaska. Note that seasonal road conditions may require alternative access during winter months.

Kennel Creek Cabin operates as a single primitive cabin catering to small groups seeking a remote wilderness experience.

Weather and SeasonsExperience Alaska's dramatic seasonal transformations at Kennel Creek, where weather patterns paint an ever-changing canvas across Freshwater Bay. Winter brings crystalline beauty with freezing temperatures and snow-dusted evergreens, while spring and fall deliver the region's characteristic mix of misty rain and unexpected sunshine. Summer visitors enjoy the longest days and mildest conditions, though wise travelers always pack layers for Alaska's famously unpredictable weather. The sweetest weeks for camping typically arrive when moderate temperatures coincide with clear skies and low humidity – perfect conditions for wildlife watching and outdoor adventures. Moderate winds off the bay keep bugs at bay while adding a soundtrack of rustling forest canopy.

Natural Features and SceneryWake to a panorama that captures the essence of Southeast Alaska's wild grandeur. From your cabin doorstep, gaze across the shimmering waters of Freshwater Bay to distant peaks crowned with eternal snow. The surrounding old-growth forest creates a living cathedral of towering evergreens, their ancient branches draped in moss and mist. Just steps away, Kennel Creek tumbles toward the bay, its clear waters a highway for spawning salmon that draw bears, eagles, and wolves to nature's feast. This remarkable ecosystem pulses with life – from breaching whales in the bay to Sitka black-tailed deer ghosting through the understory, while river otters play along the shoreline and mink hunt among the tide pools.

Geological RegionPerched on Chichagof Island in the heart of the Alexander Archipelago, Kennel Creek Cabin sits within the world's largest temperate rainforest – the magnificent Tongass. This 17-million-acre wilderness represents one of Earth's last intact temperate rainforest ecosystems, where thousand-year-old trees tower above salmon-rich streams and fjord-like bays carve deep into mountainous terrain. The island's rugged coastline and pristine watersheds create ideal habitat for Southeast Alaska's legendary wildlife, from coastal brown bears to all five species of Pacific salmon. Here, where the Pacific Ocean meets ancient forests, visitors discover an ecosystem virtually unchanged since the last ice age retreated 10,000 years ago.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in times are not explicitly mentioned.

Check-out

Check-out times are not explicitly mentioned.

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Cabin accommodates up to 8 people.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin site with a sleeping loft, main floor, and deck. Includes accessible facilities like a vault toilet and picnic area.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided regarding walk-up or first-come, first-served availability.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled at any time before the scheduled arrival date for a refund, minus a $10 cancellation fee, any reservation fees, and any change fees. Late cancellations subtract the first night's use fee. Late cancellation penalties apply starting from 14 calendar days before check-in for cabins. Contact on-site personnel for additional cancellation options.

AccessibilityThe main deck, vault toilet, and picnic table are wheelchair accessible, making the facility friendly for visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeThe cabin itself is 16 x 22 feet, providing ample indoor space. Outdoor facilities, including the picnic area, expand the usable space further.

PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, surrounded by dense evergreen forest, offering privacy and a tranquil environment.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesConsider bringing additional sleeping arrangements like folding cots for comfort. Visitors should plan to bring sufficient firewood, as none is provided.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Kennel Creek Cabin offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation including hunting, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Seasonal activities like berry picking and whale watching can also enhance the visitor experience.

HikingThe Bear Paw Lake Trail system, located approximately 4 miles northwest of the cabin, provides excellent hiking opportunities.

FishingBoth freshwater and saltwater fishing are available at Kennel Creek Cabin. Nearby Kennel Creek is an anadromous fish stream, and fishing permits and seasons can be verified through the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

BoatingA gravel beach in front of the cabin is suitable for landing and launching small boats. There is also a boat ramp and dock facility nearby. Visitors are advised to consult tide tables for safety.

Wildlife viewingThe area is abundant in wildlife, including brown bears, deer, whales, shorebirds, and small mammals. Guests should familiarize themselves with bear safety precautions.

Beach activitiesThe gravel beach allows for activities such as beachcombing and small boat launches.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears frequent the area, making it essential to follow safety guidelines. Seasonal road closures and adverse weather conditions can make access difficult. Tide tables must be consulted for boating safety.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in the designated fire ring. Firewood is not provided, and visitors must bring their own.

Emergency ServicesHoonah Ranger District (430 Airport Road, Hoonah, AK). Contact phone: 907-945-3631.

Trash & RecyclingNo dumpsters are provided at the site. Visitors are required to pack out all trash and clean the cabin before departure.

Water FeaturesCabin is approximately 200 yards from Kennel Creek, which flows into Freshwater Bay. The area includes a gravel beach suitable for small boats and a nearby boat ramp and dock.

Camp HostNo onsite campground host is mentioned.

Weather at Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak)

Reviews

4.7

7 reviews

Top-Rated

Kennel Creek Cabin (Ak) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally praise Kennel Creek Cabin for its spaciousness, well-maintained facilities, and scenic location. Visitors enjoy the wood stove and the hunting and fishing opportunities.

Review Summaries

Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

The cabin's wood stove and large food preparation table receive frequent compliments. Other positives include the scenic surroundings and wildlife sightings.

Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers noted the lack of upstairs bunks and challenges related to firewood supply. Negative tide issues were also mentioned for boat access.

Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are advised to bring sufficient firewood, as it is not provided. Tide tables should be consulted for boating safety. Bear safety precautions are also recommended.

Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews often highlight snowshoeing and snowmobiling opportunities, while summer reviews focus on hunting, fishing, and wildlife viewing.

Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Very cool spot with great views and a nice cabin. The float dock is in good shape.' - Andy Stone 2. 'Love the cabin and the wood stove... It would be nice to have small bunks upstairs.' - Matt...

Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 01: Positive reviews highlight the cabin's spaciousness and the heat provided by the wood stove. One reviewer mentioned the bear safety of hanging game from the upper deck.

Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as wheelchair-accessible vault toilets and deck have been praised by users. No negative accessibility-specific comments were found.

Based on 7 reviews