Camping at Redshirt Cabins/NLSRA

Overview of Redshirt Cabins/NLSRA

The Nancy Lake State Recreation Area (NLSRA) is a scenic area located in the state of Alaska, known for its wilderness setting and numerous waterways. Redshirt Lake Cabin is one of the public use cabins available for rent in this recreation area. Visitors seeking solitude and a back-to-nature experience often use this cabin as a base for activities such as canoeing, fishing, hiking, and observing wildlife.

Location and Access

Redshirt Lake Cabin 1 is located on the southeastern shore of Redshirt Lake in the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, which is approximately 1.5 hours' drive north of Anchorage or a short trip from the town of Willow. Access to the cabin is generally either:

• By water, which involves paddling across the lake.
• By aircraft, as floatplanes can land on the lake.
• Overland via a trail, requiring a hike or a bike ride during the summer, or a snowmobile or ski trip during the winter.

Cabin Features

The Redshirt Lake Cabin 1 is a typical remote Alaskan cabin with basic amenities:

• Capacity: The cabin is suitable for 6 to 8 people.
• Amenities: It usually includes bunks, a table, benches or chairs, and a wood stove for heating.
• Utilities: There is no electricity or running water.
• Toilet Facilities: A pit toilet is available outside the cabin.

What to Bring

Visitors must be prepared to be self-sufficient and bring all necessary supplies, including:

• Sleeping Gear: Sleeping bags, sleeping pads, and pillows.
• Cooking Gear: Cooking stove, pots, pans, utensils, and food.
• Water: Bring all drinking water or have a way to purify lake water.
• Safety Items: First aid kit, maps, compass or GPS, and a means of communication (like a satellite phone).

Activities

Activities popular in the area around Redshirt Cabins include:

• Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddling around the lake and along the canoe trails is a popular activity.
• Fishing: Anglers can fish for pike and other freshwater species.
• Hiking and Biking: Exploring the surrounding trails.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to moose, bears, and a variety of birds.
• Winter Sports: Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are common in the winter.

Reservations and Fees

• Booking: Reservations for Redshirt Lake Cabin 1 can be made through the Alaska State Parks reservation system.
• Fees: There is a nightly fee to rent the cabin, and prices may vary depending on the season.

Rules and Regulations

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: All trash must be carried out.
• Pets: Pets are usually allowed but check the specific rules.
• Firewood: Sometimes provided, but it's wise to bring supplementary firewood.
• Bear Safety: Practice bear-safe food storage and be bear-aware at all times.

Safety Considerations

• Weather: Be prepared for quickly changing weather conditions.
• Wildlife: As with any remote area in Alaska, there is potential for encounters with wildlife, including bears.
• Water Safety: Be cautious on the water, as conditions can change.
• Navigation: Ensure you can navigate your way to and from the cabin.

For the latest and most accurate information, it is best to check with the Alaska State Parks website or contact the park directly before planning your trip to the Redshirt Lake Cabins in the Nancy Lake State Recreation Area.