Camping at Manzanita Lake Cabin Campground

Overview

Manzanita Lake Cabin is a remote, rustic retreat for campers in the Tongass National Forest, which is located in southeastern Alaska. This location is often a draw for anglers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for solitude in a natural, forested setting.

Location

Manzanita Lake Cabin is situated within the Tongass National Forest, which is vast and covers much of southeast Alaska, surrounding the famous Inside Passage. The cabin is remote, usually accessed by float plane or by hiking in, depending on the time of year and weather conditions.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations: The cabin may likely require reservations due to its limited capacity and remote nature. Typically, cabins in national forests can be reserved through the Recreation.gov website or a similar service provided by the U.S. Forest Service. Advanced booking is recommended, particularly during peak seasons when demand is high.

Fees: There is usually a nightly fee to stay at forest service cabins like Manzanita Lake Cabin. The fee can vary by season and other factors, so it's recommended to check the current pricing when making a reservation.

Cabin Amenities

The level of comfort and amenities in forest service cabins can vary greatly, but generally, they are relatively basic. Here's what you might expect:

• Beds/Bunks: There will likely be simple beds or bunks, but you'll need to provide your own sleeping bags or bedding.
• Cooking: Often, there's a stove, either wood or propane, for heating and cooking. You'll probably need to bring your own cooking utensils, dishes, and pots.
• Lighting: Lighting is typically primitive so bring flashlights or lanterns.
• No Running Water: Be prepared for the absence of running water which means you'll need to carry in your water or purify it from nearby natural sources.
• Toilet Facilities: Usually, there is an outhouse or similar facility.
• Safety: Some cabins might have a bear-proof storage container or you may need to practice bear-safe storage for your food.

Activities

Fishing: Manzanita Lake is known as a good spot for fishing, particularly for trout. Make sure you have the correct permits and are aware of any seasonal restrictions.

Hiking: There may be hiking trails nearby for various skill levels, promising great wildlife viewing and beautiful vistas of the Alaskan wilderness.

Wildlife Watching: Tongass National Forest is rich in wildlife, including bears, eagles, and countless marine species. Always maintain a safe and respectful distance from wildlife.

Access

Summer Access: In the summer, there may be trail access or you might need to fly in.

Winter Access: In winter, access may be limited to planes equipped with skis, or you might have to travel via snowmachine, skis, or snowshoes.

Remember, weather in Alaska can be unpredictable and may change rapidly, so always be prepared for a variety of conditions.

Regulations and Safety

Fire Restrictions: Learn about any fire restrictions or regulations regarding campfires given the sensitivity of forested areas to wildfires.

Bear Country Precautions: Take precautions to avoid attracting bears with food scents, and be bear-aware at all times.

Leave No Trace: Practicing Leave No Trace principles is important to maintain the pristine nature of the forest.

Permits: Check if you need any special permits for activities like fishing, hiking, or for the cabin stay itself.

Contact Information

For the most accurate and current information, it is best to contact the local ranger district office responsible for Manzanita Lake Cabin or check the U.S. Forest Service or Recreation.gov website. They can provide you with details on reservations, current trail conditions, specific regulations, and any alerts or safety information you should know before you head out.