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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

PATCHING LAKE CABIN

Ward Cove, Alaska · Ketchikan Gateway County · Campground

Overview Patching Lake Cabin sits on the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River 20 miles from Ketchikan, Alaska. The cabin is open year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska with its recreation options and abundant wildlife. The cabin is remote and accessible only…

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About PATCHING LAKE CABIN

Overview Patching Lake Cabin sits on the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River 20 miles from Ketchikan, Alaska. The cabin is open year-round and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska with its recreation options and abundant wildlife. The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane, depending on conditions. This primitive cabin has no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone coverage. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation Boating, fishing and hunting are popular activities at this cabin. Resident cutthroat trout are available in Patching and Chamberlain Lakes, but there is no access trail to Chamberlain Lake from the cabin. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website. A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. The skiff can use a short shaft motor, which is not provided.Facilities The 12x14-ft. ( pan-abode style ) log cabin accommodates 6 people with 2 single and 2 double bunks. Other amenities include a table and benches, a cooking counter, food storage, broom, splitting maul, and an outhouse. A wood stove is provided for heat. NOTE: Firewood may be available, but visitors are encouraged to contact the Ketchikan Misty Fjords Ranger District to check the status of the woodshed. Drinking water is not available at the cabin. Visitors must bring their own water supply, but water is also available from a nearby creek, but should be treated before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety ). Visitors should also bring sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking gear, lanterns or flashlights, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter. Rain gear and boots are recommended. Visitors are expected to pack out their trash, gear and food and clean the cabin befo

How to Get There

Approximately 20 miles north of Ketchikan, Alaska, on the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River. Access is by float plane only. Refer to USGS 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

  • 👕
    Moisture-wicking T-shirt
    Light color, breathable.
  • 🩳
    Lightweight shorts or pants
    Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
  • 🧢
    Brimmed sun hat
    Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners
    Breathable mesh uppers.

🎒 What to Pack

  • 💧
    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 PATCHING LAKE CABIN

Heading to PATCHING 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 PATCHING LAKE CABIN?

No central reservation system listed for PATCHING LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232957) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to PATCHING LAKE CABIN?

Approximately 20 miles north of Ketchikan, Alaska, on the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River. Access is by float plane only. Refer to USGS 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 reservation…

How do I contact PATCHING LAKE CABIN?

You can reach the park at phone: 907-225-2148.