Camping at Kennel Creek Cabin Campground

Location and Accessibility

Kennel Creek Cabin Campground is located in the Tongass National Forest, which is in the southeastern region of Alaska. This remote area can be accessed by floatplane or boat, depending on the weather conditions and the time of year. Visitors should be well-informed about the specific location and navigational details, as the area is remote and isolated. Preparing for the means of transport is crucial, and arranging travel in advance with local operators is a must.

Reservations and Permits

Reservations for Kennel Creek Cabin are necessary, especially during peak seasons, which are typically summer months. These reservations can be made through the National Recreation Reservation System or through the USDA Forest Service website. Fees for the cabin are charged per night, and permits may be required for certain activities within the Tongass National Forest. Make sure to check the latest information on reservation requirements and availability prior to planning your trip.

Facilities and Amenities

Kennel Creek Cabin provides basic amenities which typically include:

• Bunks or sleeping platforms (without mattresses)
• A table and benches
• A wood stove or oil heater for heat
• Cooking facilities, which may be a propane stove or a wood-fired cook stove (fuel may or may not be provided)

The cabin does not have running water, electricity, or indoor plumbing, so visitors need to bring their own water or be prepared to treat or boil stream water. It is recommended to carry a portable stove or grill for cooking. Outhouses or pit toilets are usually provided.

Outdoor Activities

The cabin's proximity to streams, the creek, and surrounding forest offers a variety of recreational activities, including:

• Fishing: Streams in the area support populations of trout and salmon.
• Hiking: There may be some trails in the vicinity, but often hiking will be cross-country or on undeveloped paths.
• Wildlife and Bird Watching: The Tongass National Forest is rich in wildlife, such as brown and black bears, eagles, and Sitka black-tailed deer.
• Boating and Kayaking: The nearby waters offer opportunities for these activities; however, visitors need to provide their own equipment.

Safety Considerations

When planning a trip to Kennel Creek Cabin, safety is paramount:

• Bear Country: As with much of Alaska, you'll be in bear country, so proper food storage and bear safety practices are vital.
• Weather Preparedness: Weather can change rapidly, requiring warm, waterproof clothing and the ability to navigate in poor conditions.
• First Aid and Survival Gear: Bring a well-stocked first aid kit and emergency survival gear, such as a satellite phone or a personal locator beacon (PLB), as cell service will be unreliable or nonexistent.

Leave No Trace Principles

Visitors to Kennel Creek Cabin must follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize their environmental impact:

• Pack out all trash.
• Treat water sources with respect by avoiding the use of soaps and chemicals.
• Leave what you find, such as natural features and artifacts.
• Minimize the impact of fires by using the stove provided and following any fire restrictions.

Local Regulations and Etiquette

Familiarize yourself with local regulations, including fishing licenses and catch limits, and respect any guidelines provided by the Forest Service. Always be respectful of other users, and if you're visiting during a hunting season, be aware of hunters and wear bright clothing.

By thoroughly preparing for your stay at Kennel Creek Cabin and following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable wilderness experience in the stunning Tongass National Forest.