About HECKMAN LAKE CABIN
Overview Heckman Lake Cabin is located in the Naha Recreation Area at the end of the Naha River National Recreation Trail. The cabin is open year-round, offering opportunities for sightseeing, relaxation and recreation. The site can be accessed by float plane or by boating into Naha Bay and hiking six miles on the Naha River National Recreation Trail. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation The Naha River provides opportunities to fish for trout and Dolly Varden. There are also steelhead and salmon runs. Guests have use of the cabin's provided 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars, but they must provide their own life jackets. A short shaft motor can be used with the skiff, but one is not provided. The Naha River National Recreation Trail winds downstream along the river through old-growth Sitka spruce and western hemlock rain forest. Sights between Naha Bay and Heckman Lake include Roosevelt Lagoon, Jordan Lake and a waterfall.Facilities This 12-by-14 cabin ( pan-abode style ) has two single and two double bunks, to accommodate up to six people. It is also equipped with a table and benches, wood stove, splitting maul, broom and an outhouse. NOTE: Firewood may be available, but visitors are encouraged to contact the Ketchikan Misty Fjords Ranger District to check the status of the woodshed. Water and electricity are not provided. Water is available from a nearby creek or the lake, but guests should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety tips ). It is recommended that guests bring their own water supply. Other items to pack include sleeping bags, sleeping pads, lanterns or flashlights, cookware, plates, utensils, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and matches, among other necessities. Guests are expected to pack out trash and clean the cabin before leaving ( click here for more cabin details).Natural Features The cabin sits on a low kn
How to Get There
The cabin is located approximately 15 miles from Ketchikan within the Naha Recreation Area. It is located near the outlet of Heckman Lake at the terminus of the Naha Recreation Trail. It is 6 miles up the trail from Naha Bay. Access is by hiking the trail from Naha Bay or by float plane. There is a large dock located at the trailhead. Refer to USGS topographic map for Ketchikan, C-5. In fall, winter and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan Misty Fjords Ranger District for information prior to making reservations during these periods.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
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Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HECKMAN LAKE CABIN
Heading to HECKMAN LAKE CABIN? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HECKMAN LAKE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for HECKMAN LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232952) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HECKMAN LAKE CABIN?
The cabin is located approximately 15 miles from Ketchikan within the Naha Recreation Area. It is located near the outlet of Heckman Lake at the terminus of the Naha Recreation Trail. It is 6 miles up the trail from Naha Bay. Access is by hiking the trail from Naha Bay or by float plane. There is a large dock located at the trailhead. Refer to USGS topographic map for Ketchikan, C-5. In fall, wint…
How do I contact HECKMAN LAKE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.
References & Official Resources