Winstanley Island Cabin

4.35

9 reviews

, Ketchikan/Misty, AK, USA

Scenic Views

Quick Facts

128 ft

Price

$60 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 1 - Decembe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

128 ft

Price

$60 - $75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 1 - Decembe...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Winstanley Island Cabin

$60.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Facility rates are $75 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30) and $60 per night during non-peak season (October 1 - December 31)....

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

907-225-2148

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What Campers Say

4.35

Recommended

Based on 9 reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlocation

"User feedback highlights the cabin's excellent maintenance and suitability for adventurers seeking solitude and rugged beauty. Reviews also note the enjoyable beach area and accessibility challenges."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

, Ketchikan/Misty, AK, USA

Winstanley Island Cabin

, Ketchikan/Misty, AK, USA

Driving directionsThe cabin is located on saltwater approximately 30 air miles east of Ketchikan on Winstanley Island on the east side of the Behm Canal between Rudyard and Smeaton Bays. The cabin is accessible by float plane or boat. A mooring buoy is provided at the site. Refer to USGS map Ketchikan B-3. Please consult local tide tables before departing for the cabin. This cabin is in a designated Wilderness area, and access by helicopter is illegal.

Accessible only by float plane, boat, or kayak. It is remote and requires advanced navigation planning.

Nearby places

Ketchikan: 30 miles (approximately 1 hr 15 min by boat)

Nearby supplies

Supplies are available in Ketchikan, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel. Visitors must bring essentials as there are no services on-site.

Best Time to Camp at Winstanley Island Cabin

The weather here paints its own dramatic story, with misty mornings giving way to silver-lined afternoons in true Pacific Northwest fashion. Summer visitors are treated to nature's most generous gift - nearly 18 hours of glorious daylight, with the sun rising at 4 AM and not setting until 9:29 PM. These long days come dressed in nature's finest rainwear, as the region receives its signature precipitation (averaging 1.49 inches during peak weeks). The cool temperatures and frequent cloud cover create an ethereal atmosphere that transforms the landscape into something from a fairytale, where mist dances between towering peaks and raindrops create countless ripples on the calm waters.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Peak season May–Sep; favorable weather and accessibility make summer the best time to visit.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Open through December; fall offers solitude and scenery but weather and access begin to decline.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Opens May 1; late spring (May) is start of season with improving weather and activity access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Winter access and usability limited by tides and weather; facility closed part of winter (Jan–Apr).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 1 - September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 1 - December 31 annually

About Winstanley Island Cabin

Deep within the pristine Misty Fiords Monument Wilderness, Winstanley Island Cabin stands as your gateway to one of Alaska's most spectacular and untouched landscapes. This remote sanctuary, reachable only by float plane, boat, or kayak, offers an authentic wilderness experience for up to six adventurous souls. Here, you'll find yourself immersed in a world where bald eagles soar overhead, whales breach in the distance, and the only sounds are nature's symphony. The rustic cabin comes equipped with cozy bunks, a warming wood stove, and essential amenities, providing just enough comfort while keeping you connected to the raw beauty surrounding you. Whether you're casting a line into the rich saltwater fishing grounds, paddling through the mirror-like waters of Rudyerd Bay, or hiking through ancient forests, every moment promises discovery and wonder.

Winstanley Island Cabin offers primitive camping in a cabin setting, ideal for small groups looking for a remote and wilderness experience.

Weather and SeasonsThe weather here paints its own dramatic story, with misty mornings giving way to silver-lined afternoons in true Pacific Northwest fashion. Summer visitors are treated to nature's most generous gift - nearly 18 hours of glorious daylight, with the sun rising at 4 AM and not setting until 9:29 PM. These long days come dressed in nature's finest rainwear, as the region receives its signature precipitation (averaging 1.49 inches during peak weeks). The cool temperatures and frequent cloud cover create an ethereal atmosphere that transforms the landscape into something from a fairytale, where mist dances between towering peaks and raindrops create countless ripples on the calm waters.

ElevationPerched at the edge of the world where land meets sea, the cabin sits at sea level along the scenic Shoalwater Pass, offering intimate access to both marine wonders and towering wilderness.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a panorama that defies description - jagged mountain peaks pierce through morning mist while ancient forests of towering spruce, hemlock, and cedar cascade down to meet the crystalline waters of Shoalwater Pass. This extraordinary setting serves as nature's amphitheater, where humpback whales perform their acrobatic displays, orcas patrol the deep channels, and brown bears amble along distant shorelines. Overhead, bald eagles ride the thermals while moose browse in hidden meadows. Every view from the cabin frames a masterpiece of untamed wilderness, where the interplay of forest, mountain, and sea creates moments of breathtaking beauty that will forever change how you see the natural world.

Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic geography of Shoalwater Pass on the eastern shores of Behm Canal, the cabin occupies a front-row seat to the geological wonders of Misty Fiords Monument Wilderness. This spectacular region showcases nature's architectural prowess, where ancient geological forces have carved rugged mountain peaks that rise dramatically from sea level, creating a landscape of stunning vertical relief. The surrounding temperate rainforest - a living tapestry of spruce, hemlock, and cedar - cloaks these granite sentinels in emerald green, while deep fjords and protected waterways weave between the mountains like nature's own highways, inviting exploration and promising adventure at every turn.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 guests per cabin.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin located remotely with a nearby outhouse and a mooring buoy accessible.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilitySame-day reservations are permitted for this cabin; walk-up availability not applicable due to remote location.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before the arrival date but incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before the arrival date) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee in addition to the cancellation fee.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly stated, and the remote location makes the cabin challenging to access.

Site SizeThe cabin is 12x14-ft in size and accommodates up to 6 people.

PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a remote wilderness area, offering high privacy.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring sufficient firewood, water treatment supplies, rain gear, and navigation tools. Plan trips around tides and consult tide tables.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations

Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Winstanley Island Cabin offers a range of recreational activities suitable for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Popular activities include saltwater fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and hunting.

HikingHiking trails to freshwater streams and lakes are accessible by boat, including Winstanley Lake (#743), Checats (#704), Ella (#70), Manzanita (#721), and Nooya Lake (#724).

FishingSaltwater fishing is possible around the cabin. "Fishing is part of the experience here, but no specific details about species or fishing quality are provided."

BoatingBoating and kayaking are popular activities. Scenic attractions accessible by boat or kayak include Walker Cove, Chickamin River, Smeaton Bay, New Eddystone Rock, and the Behm Canal. "Rudyerd Bay is a good day trip for adventurous sea kayakers."

Wildlife viewingThe Misty Fiords Monument Wilderness supports diverse wildlife, including mountain goats, bears, moose, bald eagles, Dall's porpoise, orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, and harbor seals. "Stayed dry and warm... Beautiful wildlife viewing opportunities."

Beach activitiesThe nearby beach offers excellent opportunities for walks and group games during low tide. "Low tide reveals a HUGE beach that is fun for walks and a great place to play games with the group."

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include encounters with wildlife like bears and moose, challenging weather conditions, and navigation difficulties due to tides. Water from nearby creeks must be treated before usage.

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 PolicyA wood stove is provided, but firewood must be brought by visitors. The supplied firewood is for stove use only.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services are in Ketchikan.

Trash & RecyclingVisitors are expected to pack out their trash, gear, and food. There are no designated trash or recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesLocated directly on Shoalwater Pass near Behm Canal, with opportunities for saltwater fishing and kayaking.

Weather at Winstanley Island Cabin

Reviews

4.4

9 reviews

Recommended

Winstanley Island Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User feedback highlights the cabin's excellent maintenance and suitability for adventurers seeking solitude and rugged beauty. Reviews also note the enjoyable beach area and accessibility challenges.

Review Summaries

Based on 9 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the cabin's cleanliness and comfort, its remote and scenic location, and the recreational opportunities nearby. "The cabin is amazing and well taken care of."

Based on 9 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues raised include the non-functional and potentially dangerous wood stove. "The wood stove is not operable and needs to be removed and replaced."

Based on 9 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are advised to bring firewood, a sharp axe, and rain gear due to the area's unpredictable weather. "Bring firewood or a sharp axe."

Based on 9 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summers are most popular due to favorable weather and accessibility. Winter may pose challenges due to tides and weather conditions, limiting usability.

Based on 9 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Stayed dry and warm. The cabin is amazing and well taken care of." "Outstanding experience. There is a great beach with good access with the exception of low tide." "Excellent launching point for...

Based on 9 reviews