Winstanley Lake Cabin

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Quick Facts

400 ft

Price

$45 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 1 - Dec 31....

Cell

Unknown

Pets

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Real-Time Availability

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January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Winstanley Lake Cabin
$45.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The cabin charges $60 per night during peak season (May 1 - Sept 30) and $45 per night during non-peak season (Oct 1 - Dec 31). Fees do not include...
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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
907-225-2148
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What Campers Say

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Limited Reviews

Based on 0 reviews

Most mentioned

location

"User reviews highlight the cabin's excellent maintenance, beautiful natural surroundings, and the unique remote experience it offers. The cabin's amenities, such as the wood stove, are appreciated for keeping visitors warm and dry."

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Campground Map

Winstanley Lake Cabin

55.4274, -130.8205

Driving directionsThe cabin is located on Winstanley Lake approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland, east of Winstanley Island. The cabin is accessible by float plane or by trail from saltwater (skiff provided at end of trail; please return it to the trail after use). Access by boat involves a 2.5 mile (4 km) hike from saltwater plus a 2.25 mile (3.6 km) row to the cabin. Refer to USGS Ketchikan B-3.
Road access is infeasible as the cabin is remote and only accessible by float plane or boat. Access by boat involves hiking 2.5 miles from saltwater followed by a 2.25-mile row to the cabin. Seasonal limitations exist as the lake surface may freeze in fall, winter, and early spring (making access by float plane impossible). Helicopters are prohibited.
Nearby places
Ketchikan, AK - 33 air miles northeast
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Ketchikan, approximately 33 air miles away. Visitors must bring essentials including food, water, and gear.

Best Time to Camp at Winstanley Lake Cabin

Summer brings a gentle reprieve to this northern paradise, with temperatures hovering comfortably between 48°F and 55°F—perfect for outdoor exploration. Be prepared for the region's legendary rainfall, which nourishes the lush temperate rainforest surrounding the cabin. As autumn arrives, the lake begins its transformation, eventually freezing solid through winter and into early spring, creating a crystalline wonderland that limits access but rewards the hardy few who witness its frozen beauty.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and accessible May–Sept; temps 48–55°F and best recreational opportunities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into fall but accessibility and weather may limit activities.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 1; early season may be wet and variable though accessible.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Site closes to public Jan–Apr; late fall/winter access limited and rugged.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 - Sept 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 1 - Dec 31. Reservations start June 21, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal access alerts due to frozen lake surface (fall/winter/early spring) and prohibition on helicopter use.

About Winstanley Lake Cabin

Deep in the heart of Alaska's wilderness, Winstanley Lake Cabin awaits those seeking true solitude and adventure. Nestled 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan, this remote sanctuary can only be reached by float plane skimming across pristine waters or by boat navigating challenging passages. Set within the breathtaking Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness, the cabin offers an unparalleled gateway to untamed nature, where wildlife roams freely and the modern world feels centuries away.
Winstanley Lake Cabin provides a single, nonelectric log cabin for a remote camping experience. This is not a traditional campground with multiple campsites but rather a singular accommodation.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Standard check-in time not stated.
Check-out
Standard check-out time not stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 7 consecutive nights per reservation.

Amenities available

Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Winstanley Lake Cabin can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, boating, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding wilderness enhances the outdoor experience.
HikingHiking is required to access the cabin. Visitors who arrive by boat must hike 2.5 miles from saltwater to reach the provided skiff, which then requires a 2.25-mile row to the cabin.
FishingThe lake offers fishing opportunities for cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon. Proper fishing permits are required.
BoatingA 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake. Visitors must bring their own life jackets. Rowing to the historic Winstanley Lake Shelter, built in the 1930s, is a popular activity.
Wildlife viewingThe area is home to a diverse variety of wildlife, including mountain goats, black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, moose, and bald eagles. Numerous bird species can also be observed around the lake.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife hazards include bears and moose; visitors are advised to follow bear safety guidelines. Weather hazards include potential extended stays due to poor conditions.
Active AlertsSeasonal access alerts due to frozen lake surface (fall/winter/early spring) and prohibition on helicopter use.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Winstanley Lake Cabin

Reviews

0.0
0 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Winstanley Lake Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's excellent maintenance, beautiful natural surroundings, and the unique remote experience it offers. The cabin's amenities, such as the wood stove, are appreciated for keeping visitors warm and dry.
Review Summaries

What Campers Love

The cabin is described as being "amazing and well taken care of." Its remote location and scenic beauty make it a memorable experience for visitors.

Common Concerns

No significant complaints are documented, although visitors are reminded of the rugged nature of the trip and the need to bring all necessary supplies.

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing appropriate gear such as rain boots, life jackets, and cooking equipment. Packing out all trash is emphasized as a requirement.

Seasonal Insights

During the peak season (May through September), the cabin is readily accessible and provides excellent opportunities for recreational activities. In fall and winter, accessibility may be limited due...
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Camper Quotes

"Stayed dry and warm. The cabin is amazing and well taken care of. Low tide reveals a HUGE beach that is fun for walks and a great place to play games with the group. 1hr15mins from Ketchikan by...
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Site-Specific Reviews

No individual site-specific reviews; the focus is on the cabin as a whole.

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is likely a challenge due to the remote location and rugged terrain.

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences.

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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