Helm Bay Cabin
Open — Open year-round for reservations. The cabin is accessible by float plane, boat, or kayak depending on conditions, with tides affecting access.
Regional Order No. 10-01 - Marijuana - Simple Possession
Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50(a), the following acts are prohibited on the Tongass and Chugach National Forests: Possessing, storing or transporting parts of a cannabis plant, whether growing or not; the seeds thereof; the resin extracted from any part of such plant; including and not limited to proc
Regional Order No. 10-00-00-04-01 - Occupancy and Use - Alcohol
TONGASS and CHUGACH NATIONAL FORESTS Regional Office Juneau, Alaska Order No. 10-00-00-04-01REGIONAL ORDEROccupancy and Use
Regional Order No. R-10-96-01 - Forest Development Roads and Trails
R-10 SUPPLEMENT 7700-96-1 7730EFFECTIVE 5/17/96 Page 10 of 117731.14 - EXHIBIT 01ORDER NO. R-10-96-01FOREST DEVELOPMENT ROADS AND TRAILSALASKA REGION
Flood Advisory issued December 29 at 4:11PM AKST until December 30 at 8:45AM AKST by NWS Juneau AK
Heavy rain fall Sunday and overnight night has increased runoff into stream and rivers. * WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues. * WHERE...Ward Lake near areas near the Ward Lake recreational area. * WHEN...Until 845 AM AKST Tuesday. * IMPACTS...Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - At 409 PM AKST, gauge reports indicated heavy rain across the advisory area. Minor flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly, especially near Ward Lake. - For Lake Connell Dam: At 3:00pm the stage was 253.25 feet. Flood Stage is 252.0 feet.
About
Helm Bay Cabin is a rustic three-room Pan-Abode log cabin constructed in 1978, located on the west shore of Helm Bay behind Forss Island in the Tongass National Forest. This 16x20-foot retreat sits at sea level adjacent to a large saltwater tide flat, surrounded by old-growth rainforest of Sitka spruce and western hemlock. The cabin accommodates up to eight people with four single bunks and two double bunks, and features a covered deck, table and benches, wood stove, and an outhouse. A beach is revealed at low tide, offering stunning views of Helm Bay and the gentle forested slopes beyond. The area is renowned for excellent crabbing and saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut, and red snapper. Sea kayaking is also popular in the protected waters. Wildlife includes black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goats, and marine mammals such as seals and whales. Guests must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water, sleeping bags, cooking gear, and all supplies. A state-maintained floating dock is available on a first-come, first-served basis near the cabin. Located approximately 24 miles from Ketchikan or 12 miles from the Clover Pass area, the cabin is accessible only by float plane, boat, or kayak. Tides affect access to the cabin, so consultation of tide tables is essential. This remote wilderness location demands proper preparation for Alaska's weather conditions and wildlife encounters, making it ideal for experienced outdoor enthusiasts seeking solitude in the Inside Passage.
Directions
Located approximately 24 miles from Ketchikan or 12 miles from the Clover Pass area on the west shore of Helm Bay behind Forss Island. Accessible by float plane, boat, or kayak with a state-maintained floating dock near the cabin. Refer to USGS topographic map Ketchikan C-6 and consult local tide tables before traveling.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $65 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (907) 225-2148 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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