Camping at Kashe Lake Cabin Campground

General Overview

Kashe Lake Cabin Campground is a public recreation site located in the Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the United States, which encompasses islands of the Alexander Archipelago, fjords, glaciers, and peaks of the Coast Mountains in Alaska. Given its remote nature, access to the campground typically requires a boat or a floatplane.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservations: To stay at Kashe Lake Cabin, you must reserve the cabin in advance. The U.S. Forest Service typically manages the reservations, and these can be made online through the official reservation system or by phone.
• Fees: There is usually a nightly fee for staying in the cabin, which helps with the upkeep and maintenance of the site. Prices can be checked online and may vary seasonally.

Cabin Features and Amenities

• Capacity: Kashe Lake Cabin is designed to accommodate a certain number of guests, often around six to eight people. It's crucial to abide by the capacity restrictions for safety and resource management.
• Amenities: The cabin typically comes with basic amenities such as bunks or sleeping platforms, a table, chairs, and a wood stove for heating. Visitors will need to bring their own sleeping bags, cookware, and other personal items.
• No Running Water: Generally, there is no running water at the cabin. Visitors must either boil water available in the environment or bring their own potable water.
• Toilet Facilities: There is usually an outhouse type toilet available near the cabin.

Accessibility

• Remote Access: Kashe Lake Cabin is often accessible only via boat or floatplane, with nearby lakes being common access points. Ensure that you have the necessary skills and experience, or hire a guide or service to take you there.
• Weather Dependent: Since the Tongass National Forest is in a temperate rainforest, the weather can be highly variable and impact access. Always check weather conditions before setting out.

Activities

• Fishing: Kashe Lake and surrounding waters can offer excellent fishing opportunities. Ensure that you comply with all Alaskan fishing regulations.
• Hiking: There may be trails or wilderness areas for hiking and exploring. Always carry a map and be prepared for rugged conditions.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Tongass National Forest is rich in wildlife, including bears, eagles, and salmon. Observe all safety guidelines when viewing wildlife.

Safety and Leave No Trace

• Bear Country: Precautions must be taken to avoid attracting bears with food or garbage. Make use of bear-proof containers and follow regulations.
• Leave No Trace: Always follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out what you pack in.

Additional Tips

• Book Early: Given the limited number of cabins and their popularity, it's advisable to book your stay well in advance, especially for peak seasons.
• Plan for Emergencies: Remote locations mean help can be far away. Have a plan for medical emergencies and be equipped with a first aid kit and means of communication.

Conclusion

The Kashe Lake Cabin Campground offers a rustic and serene camping experience in the beauty of the Tongass National Forest. Ensure that you are well prepared for the elements, understand the guidelines for use, and have secured all necessary permits and reservations before embarking on your adventure. Always adhere to safety recommendations and practice ethical camping behaviors to preserve the wilderness for future visitors.