Winstanley Lake Shelter Site

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No advance reservations for the shelter site.

About

Winstanley Lake Shelter Site is a historic three-sided shelter constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s, located approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland east of Winstanley Island. Situated at 400 feet elevation within the pristine Misty Fjords National Monument Wilderness area of Tongass National Forest, this primitive shelter offers a unique backcountry camping experience in one of Southeast Alaska's most spectacular wilderness settings. The shelter is accessible via a 2.25-mile trail from saltwater or by floatplane. A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided at the trailhead for use on Winstanley Lake, allowing visitors to explore the lake and access the Forest Service cabin located on the northeast shore. The site includes two pit toilets but no potable water, requiring visitors to bring their own water or treat lake water. A mooring buoy is available on a first-come, first-served basis for floatplane access. This remote location provides excellent opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and wilderness exploration in the heart of Misty Fjords. The shelter serves as a popular base camp for hunters and anglers, offering basic protection from the elements while maintaining a true wilderness experience. Visitors should be prepared for bear country and Southeast Alaska's rainy climate, and must pack out all trash.

Directions

Located approximately 33 air miles northeast of Ketchikan on the mainland east of Winstanley Island at 400 feet elevation. Access by floatplane to the lake (mooring buoy available first-come, first-served) or via 2.25-mile trail from saltwater. USGS Ketchikan B3.

Nearby Campgrounds