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Helm Bay Cabin
Open

Open year-round. Reservations available via Recreation.gov. Peak season rates ($80/night) apply May 1 through September 30; off-peak rates ($65/night) October 1 through April 30. Check-in and check-out at 12:00 PM.

Tongass National Forest

Harbor Mountain Forest Order Closure Sitka Ranger District

Occupancy and Use Prohibitions TONGASS NATIONAL FOREST Sitka Ranger DistrictOrder No. 10-05-31-26-10Pursuant to 16 U.S.C. § 551 and 36 C.F.R. § 261.53 (e)(f), the following acts are prohibited on the National Forest System (“NFS”) within the administrative boundaries of the Tongass National…

Tongass National Forest

Cube Cove Road Closure Forest Order Admiralty Island National Monument

The order is necessary to ensure public health and safety. As part ofan aquatic restoration project, explosive material will be transported and staged along themainline road before being deployed at multiple sites throughout the Lake Kathleen and PeanutLake drainages. The closure is intended to…

Tongass National Forest

Back Loop Bridge Trailhead Emergency Closure Mendenhall Glacier Recreation Area JRD

Pursuant to 36 CFR 261.50 (a) & (b), the following acts are prohibited on the Tongass National Forest, Juneau Ranger District as depicted on the map attached as Attachment 1.This order will be rescinded no later than July 25, 2026. For the protection of public health and safety due to…

About

Helm Bay Cabin offers a true Alaskan wilderness experience in the heart of the Tongass National Forest's Inside Passage. This 16x20 ft three-room Pan-Abode log cabin, built in 1978, sits at sea level adjacent to a large saltwater tide flat surrounded by old-growth rainforest. The cabin accommodates up to 8 guests with four single bunks and two double bunks, and includes a wood stove, table with benches, and a covered front deck. The area is renowned for excellent crabbing and saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut, and red snapper. A beach emerges in front of the cabin at low tide, and sea kayaking opportunities abound. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, mountain goats, seals, and whales frequenting the area. Guests must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water (or treating creek water), firewood, sleeping bags, cooking gear, food, toilet paper, and all other supplies. All trash must be packed out. A state-maintained floating dock is available nearby on a first-come, first-served basis. Consult tide tables before boating in Helm Bay.

Directions

Located on the west shore of Helm Bay behind Forss Island, approximately 24 miles from Ketchikan or 12 miles from the Clover Pass area. Accessible by floatplane, boat, or kayak only. A state-maintained floating dock is located offshore near the cabin. Refer to USGS topographic map Ketchikan C-6 and consult local tide tables.

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

Helm Bay Cabin
Dining Area
Bunk Area
Helm Bay from the Cabin
Kitchen Area, Entrance, and Stove
Helm Bay Cabin

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