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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

WINSTANLEY LAKE CABIN

Coffman Cove, Alaska · Ketchikan Gateway County · Campground

Overview Winstanley Lake Cabin is located on the mainland on the shore of its namesake lake approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan. The cabin offers recreational and wildlife viewing opportunities and makes an excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska. The cabin is remote and accessible only by f…

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About WINSTANLEY LAKE CABIN

Overview Winstanley Lake Cabin is located on the mainland on the shore of its namesake lake approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan. The cabin offers recreational 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 or boat, depending on conditions. Access by boat involves a 2.5 mile hike from saltwater plus a 2.25 mile row to the cabin. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.Recreation A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. Visitors can row to the historic Winstanley Lake Shelter at the end of the lake, which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s. Anglers can fish for cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon in the lake. Hunting is possible for Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goat, black bear and brown bear with the proper permits.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, and wood stove. An outhouse is located nearby. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed. Drinking water and electricity are not available. Visitors must bring their own water supply, but water is also available from the lake 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, 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 before leaving. Click here for more cabin details and maps. Natural Features The cabin is located within the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness. It is backed b

How to Get There

The 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 salt water plus a 2.25 mile (3.6 km) row to the cabin. Refer to USGS Ketchikan B-3. 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. 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 LAKE CABIN

Heading to WINSTANLEY 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 WINSTANLEY LAKE CABIN?

No central reservation system listed for WINSTANLEY LAKE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232990) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to WINSTANLEY LAKE CABIN?

The 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 salt water plus a 2.25 mile (3.6 km) row to the cabin. Refer to USGS Ketc…

How do I contact WINSTANLEY LAKE CABIN?

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