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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN

Coffman Cove, Alaska · Ketchikan Gateway County · Campground

Overview Winstanley Island Cabin is located on Winstanley Island approximately 30 air miles east of Ketchikan. The cabin offers saltwater recreation and wildlife viewing opportunities and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska. The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane, boat or kaya…

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About WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN

Overview Winstanley Island Cabin is located on Winstanley Island approximately 30 air miles east of Ketchikan. The cabin offers saltwater recreation and wildlife viewing opportunities and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska. The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane, boat or kayak, 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 A number of scenic attractions can be reached by boat or kayak from Winstanley Island Cabin, including Walker Cove, Chickamin River, Smeaton Bay, New Eddystone Rock and the Behm Canal. Rudyerd Bay is a good day trip for adventurous sea kayakers. Local tide tables should be consulted before any boating excursion. Hiking trails to freshwater streams and lakes and various hunting areas are accessible by boat, including Winstanley Lake (#743), Checats (#704), Ella (#70), Manzanita (#721) and Nooya Lake (#724). Saltwater fishing is possible around the cabin.Facilities The 12x14-ft. ( pan-abode style ) cabin accommodates up to 6 people with 2 single bunks and 2double bunks. Other amenities include a table with benches, cooking counter, food storage, broom and dustpan. A wood stove is provided for heat, along with a splitting maul. An outhouse is located nearby. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed.A mooring buoy is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The cabin reservation does not give exclusive use of the buoy. More than one vessel is allowed to use the buoy if the first party there agrees. Drinking water is not available at the cabin. Visitors should bring their own water supply, but water is also available from a nearby creek and 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,

How to Get There

The 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.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

👔 What to Wear

  • 👕
    Long-sleeve shirt
    Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
  • 🧥
    Light shell or windbreaker
    Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
  • 👖
    Hiking pants or convertible
    Layer for variable conditions.
  • 🥾
    Trail runners or low boots
    Comfortable, broken in.

🎒 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 WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN

Heading to WINSTANLEY ISLAND 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 WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN?

No central reservation system listed for WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232988) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN?

The 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…

How do I contact WINSTANLEY ISLAND CABIN?

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