Petersburg Borough / Tongass National Forest

Castle River Cabin

Open — Open year-round for reservations through Recreation.gov. Currently in non-peak season with $25 per night rates through April 30.

About

Castle River Cabin offers a secluded experience in the coastal rainforest of southeastern Alaska on Kupreanof Island. The modified A-frame cabin is situated inside a large tide flat at the mouth of Castle River on the west side of Duncan Canal, surrounded by predominantly flat-to-rolling old-growth forest and muskeg. The cabin accommodates up to six guests with two double bunks and a sleeping loft, and features a wood stove for heat, wooden table and benches, counter space, a deck, and a woodshed with axe and maul. A pit-type outhouse is located nearby. Access is tide-dependent and requires careful planning. A 16-foot tide is needed for direct boat or float plane access from Petersburg or Wrangell. At lower tides, visitors must hike up to 2 miles across sometimes muddy tide flats to reach the cabin. Alternatively, visitors can access the nearby Castle Flats Cabin (requiring a 13-15 foot tide) and hike an easy half-mile trail to Castle River Cabin. The Castle River Trail connects both cabins and continues upstream a half-mile to a rowboat with oars for exploring the area. The location provides excellent opportunities for fishing steelhead trout in spring, trout through summer and fall, and coho salmon in late summer. The area supports diverse wildlife including moose, deer, black bears, waterfowl, and grouse, with hunting available in designated seasons. Visitors must be self-sufficient, bringing their own bedding, cooking utensils, food, water, and safety equipment. Firewood is provided for the stove but not guaranteed.

Directions

Located 16 air miles or 30 water miles from Petersburg at the mouth of Castle River on the west side of Duncan Canal on Kupreanof Island. Access by float plane or boat only. A 16-foot tide is required for direct access; at lower tides, expect up to a 2-mile hike across tide flats. Alternative access via Castle Flats Cabin with a half-mile trail connection.

Nearby Campgrounds