Red Bay Lake Cabin

Star0
3 reviews
PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

108 ft

Price

$35 - $55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season: May 1 -...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Thorne Bay Ranger District 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
Red Bay Lake Cabin
$35.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates vary based on season: $55 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30), $35 per night during non-peak season (October 1 -...
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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

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 3 reviews

1 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocation

"User reviews highlight the cabin's natural beauty and peaceful setting, alongside challenges such as boat maintenance issues and insufficient firewood supplies. The cabin is praised for its cozy interior and breathtaking views."

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Campground Map

PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA

Red Bay Lake Cabin

PO BOX 19001, THORNE BAY, AK 99919, USA

Driving directionsRed Bay Lake Cabin is accessible by float plane or a vehicle/hiking/boating combination. The trailhead to access the cabin is approximately a 3.5-hour drive from Hollis or 2 hours from Thorne Bay on Forest Road #20. From the trailhead, the 3/4 mile hike proceeds on a boardwalk through large cedar trees to a boat provided by the Forest Service on the lake. Visitors must then row 1.5 miles to reach their final destination. By plane, Red Bay Lake is located 40 air miles from Wrangell, 55 miles from Craig, and 84 miles from Ketchikan. Note that winter access may be difficult due to frozen lake surfaces.
Access requires a combination of driving, hiking, and boating. The trailhead is 3.5 hours from Hollis or 2 hours from Thorne Bay. Roads are generally accessible, but winter snow and ice conditions may pose challenges.
Nearby places
Hollis (3.5-hour drive), Thorne Bay (2-hour drive), Wrangell (40 air miles), Craig (55 air miles), Ketchikan (84 air miles).
Nearby supplies
Supply locations are not explicitly mentioned
general preparation guidelines suggest visitors should bring food, water, and all necessary amenities, as none are available at the cabin.

Best Time to Camp at Red Bay Lake Cabin

Summer brings gentle warmth to this northern paradise, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of colors before winter's grip takes hold, often sealing the lake beneath a sheet of ice that can make access impossible through early spring. The unpredictable Alaskan weather adds to the adventure—wise travelers pack extra provisions, knowing that nature here operates on its own schedule and may extend their wilderness sojourn unexpectedly.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer brings gentle warmth and is the peak season (May–Sep) for outdoor activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Autumn offers color and scenery but late-season visits report wet wood and facility issues.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 1; spring can be wet and transitional but offers emerging wildlife and scenery.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Site is effectively closed/very difficult for most winter months; winter access is problematic.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 - September 30 (peak season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season: May 1 - December 31; peak seasons are from May 1 to September 30.
  • Current Alerts: Winter access may be difficult due to frozen lakes. Inclement weather can cause extended stays; guests should bring supplies to last 2-5 days.

About Red Bay Lake Cabin

Escape to the wild heart of Alaska at Red Bay Lake Cabin, where adventure begins with your journey to get there. Tucked away on Prince of Wales Island within the vast Tongass National Forest, this remote wilderness retreat beckons those seeking true solitude. Whether you arrive by the thrilling splash of a float plane landing on pristine waters or embark on an epic combination of driving, hiking, and boating, your destination promises an authentic Alaskan experience surrounded by towering peaks and ancient forests.
The Red Bay Lake Cabin is a primitive facility tailored for wilderness enthusiasts. It is ideal for small groups seeking solitude and adventure in an untouched Alaskan setting.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 7 consecutive nights allowed.

Amenities available

Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Red Bay Lake Cabin provides a range of outdoor activities in a pristine wilderness setting. Popular pursuits include fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, and boating. The cabin's remote location enhances the solitude and immersive natural experience.
HikingHiking opportunities include the 3/4 mile Red Bay Lake Trail, which features a scenic boardwalk winding through large cedar trees. This trail leads to a row boat at the north end of the lake and offers access to the cabin. The hike is described as moderately challenging and highly scenic.
FishingFishing is a major attraction at Red Bay Lake Cabin, with opportunities to catch coho, pink, chum, sockeye salmon, steelhead, cutthroat trout, and Dolly Varden. The nearby Red Bay Creek drainage is ideal for sport fishing. A user review noted catching a large silver salmon in the lake.
BoatingThe cabin is equipped with an aluminum skiff and oars for boating activities. Guests may bring a long shaft motor for convenience. User reviews highlight issues with boat maintenance, including damaged oars and water accumulation in the boat.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is abundant, with chances to see loons, eagles, Sitka black-tailed deer, and black bears. The area’s old-growth forest and lakeside location promote diverse wildlife encounters.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bears are present; visitors should follow bear safety protocols. Snow and icy conditions may make travel hazardous. Slippery decks and stairs have been noted in user reviews.
Active AlertsWinter access may be difficult due to frozen lakes. Inclement weather can cause extended stays; guests should bring supplies to last 2-5 days.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Red Bay Lake Cabin

Reviews

0.0
3 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Red Bay Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's natural beauty and peaceful setting, alongside challenges such as boat maintenance issues and insufficient firewood supplies. The cabin is praised for its cozy interior and breathtaking views.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the cabin's secluded location, scenic views, and comfortable wood stove, which provides warmth during cold weather. The cabin's skylights are appreciated for their ability...
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Based on 3 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent issues include poorly maintained boat oars, insufficient firewood (often wet), and slippery decks and stairs. Some reviewers caution future visitors to prepare for these challenges.
Based on 3 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing tools to fix the boat oars, extra firewood, and supplies to handle wet conditions. It is also advised to exercise caution due to slippery decks and stairs.
Based on 3 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that late-season visits often experience challenges related to wet firewood and damaged facilities. Winter access can be particularly difficult due to snow and ice.
Based on 3 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Absolutely beautiful and peaceful. If you want to visit the cabin, be prepared to row the boat." – Daniel Pankratz 2. "We had to empty the boat full of water and fix the oars! Be prepared for...
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Based on 3 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific remarks focus on the cabin's interior and equipment. For example, the wood stove is described as cozy, while the skylights and sleeping arrangements are appreciated for their...
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Based on 3 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility challenges include the need to hike 3/4 mile and row across the lake, which may be difficult for individuals with physical limitations.
Based on 3 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies are not addressed in the available reviews or official sources.
Based on 3 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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