Camping at Mallard Slough Cabin Campground
Location and Access
Mallard Slough Cabin is situated in the Tongass National Forest, which is located in Southeast Alaska. This remote cabin can typically be accessed by floatplane, depending on the weather conditions and the time of the year. It's essential to plan your transportation ahead of time, as the cabin is not accessible by road.
Reservations and Fees
It's important to reserve Mallard Slough Cabin well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Reservations can typically be made through the USDA Forest Service’s reservation system or website. There will be a nightly fee for staying in the cabin, and rates can vary. Check the official Tongass National Forest website for the most current pricing and reservation details.
Cabin Amenities and Specifics
Mallard Slough Cabin is a rustic forest service cabin which generally offers basic amenities. It may include:
- Bunks or sleeping platforms (without mattresses)
- A table and chairs or benches
- A wood stove for heat
- An outdoor pit toilet
- Cooking facilities (possibly a stove, but you will need to bring your own fuel)
Please note that there is usually no running water or electricity at the cabin. You will need to bring your own water or have the means to treat or boil water from natural sources.
What to Bring
When staying at a remote cabin like Mallard Slough, you need to be self-sufficient. Here is a general checklist:
- Sleeping bag and pad
- Food and cooking utensils
- Portable cook stove and fuel (if necessary)
- Water purification system
- First aid kit
- Fire starter and matches (kept in a waterproof container)
- Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
- Trash bags (pack out all trash)
Safety and Considerations
- Bears and Wildlife: Practice bear safety. Store food and scented items securely and be aware of wildlife.
- Weather: Conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for rain, cold, and potentially snow, depending on the season.
- Tides: If you're arriving by water, be aware of the tides as they can affect your access to the cabin.
- Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Activities
- Fishing: The surrounding waters may offer opportunities for fishing. Be sure you have the required fishing licenses and are familiar with the regulations.
- Wildlife Viewing: Tongass National Forest is rich with wildlife. You have a good chance of seeing bears, eagles, and possibly whales in the adjacent waterways.
- Hiking: If there are trails or open land around the cabin, hiking can be a great way to explore more of the Tongass National Forest.
Important Contacts
Before heading out, you should always check the latest information with the local ranger district. Bring with you any necessary emergency contact numbers, and ensure you have a way to communicate in case of an emergency, keeping in mind that cell service may be non-existent.
Please verify all of this information with the most current resources as conditions, services, and regulations can change. The USDA Forest Service's official website for Tongass National Forest is the best source for up-to-date information.
Resources
- Tongass National Forest official website: www.fs.usda.gov/tongass
- Forest Service’s reservation system: www.recreation.gov