Bakewell Lake Cabin | Tongass National Forest Camping

Tucked away within the emerald embrace of the Misty Fiords National Monument Wilderness, the Bakewell Lake Cabin offers an unparalleled escape into the heart of the Tongass National Forest. For those seeking the quintessential Alaskan experience—where the only sounds are the call of the loon and the gentle lap of water against a shoreline—this remote outpost stands as a premier destination. Accessing such a pristine location requires planning and a spirit of adventure, as it is primarily reached by floatplane or a combination of boating and hiking, ensuring that your stay remains undisturbed by the modern world.

Campground Overview: The Heart of the Tongass

Bakewell Lake Cabin is not your typical drive-in campsite. It is a rustic, secluded structure managed by the U.S. Forest Service, designed for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of Southeast Alaska. Located approximately 45 miles east of Ketchikan, the cabin sits on the eastern shore of Bakewell Lake, surrounded by a dense canopy of Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and cedar. The vibe here is one of profound isolation and natural majesty. With the surrounding mountains reflecting off the glassy surface of the lake, visitors often feel as though they have stepped back in time to a world untouched by industry.

Due to its breathtaking scenery and prime location for outdoor recreation, the Bakewell Lake Cabin is classified as a “Very High Demand” site. This means that reservations are snatched up the moment they become available. To secure a spot, campers must be diligent and often rely on advanced notification systems to catch cancellations or new openings. If you are looking for other remote experiences in the region, you might also want to explore Eagle Glacier Cabin for a different perspective on the Tongass landscape.

Campground Facilities and The Forest Setting

The facility itself is a classic A-frame or hunter-style cabin (depending on current maintenance cycles) that provides a sturdy shelter against the unpredictable Alaskan weather. While “facilities” in the wilderness are minimal, the cabin includes wooden bunks, a table with benches, and a wood-burning stove for heat. It is important to remember that there is no electricity or running water; campers must bring their own sleeping pads, cooking gear, and water filtration systems. The true luxury of Bakewell Lake Cabin lies in its surroundings. The forest setting is lush and vibrant, often shrouded in a mystical mist that gives the Misty Fiords their name.

The cabin is strategically placed to offer stunning mountain views that change with the shifting light of the day. From the front porch, you can watch the sunrise illuminate the jagged peaks that guard the lake. The site also features a pit toilet (outhouse) located a short distance from the main cabin. This minimalist approach to camping allows visitors to focus entirely on the environment, providing a sense of self-reliance that is increasingly rare in today’s world.

Available Activities: From Fishing to Boating

For the active adventurer, Bakewell Lake is a playground of natural wonders. Fishing is perhaps the most popular draw here. The lake and its interconnected streams are teeming with life, offering anglers the chance to catch cutthroat trout, dolly varden, and various species of salmon depending on the season. The convenience of having lake access just steps from your door means you can start your first cast before the morning coffee is even brewed.

Boating and kayaking are also essential parts of the Bakewell experience. The cabin often provides a small skiff (though you must bring your own outboard motor and fuel, or oars), allowing guests to explore the far reaches of the lake. Paddling through the calm waters provides a unique vantage point of the shoreline where you might spot Sitka black-tailed deer or even a coastal brown bear foraging near the water’s edge. If you enjoy lakeside adventures, you might also consider visiting Jims Lake Cabin for similar aquatic recreation opportunities.

Beach Access and Mountain Exploration

While the terrain is rugged, there are areas of beach access along the lake where the shoreline flattens out, offering a perfect spot for a midday picnic or a bracing dip in the cold glacial waters. For those with a penchant for hiking, the surrounding forest offers off-trail exploration opportunities. However, navigating the Tongass requires a high level of skill and a reliable GPS, as the undergrowth can be incredibly thick. The reward for those who venture upward is an unobstructed view of the vast Alaskan wilderness, a sea of green and grey stretching to the horizon.

Amenities & Essential Information

When preparing for a stay at Bakewell Lake Cabin, it is vital to understand what is—and isn’t—provided. Think of this as a “dry” camping experience with a roof over your head. Essential amenities include:

• Heat: A wood stove is provided, but you may need to gather or process your own firewood from downed timber.
• Sanitation: A basic outhouse is available. Always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the area pristine.
• Cooking: Bring a portable camp stove. Cooking inside the cabin is permitted, but ensure proper ventilation.
• Safety: This is bear country. All food and attractants must be stored properly inside the cabin or in bear-proof containers.

Compared to more accessible spots like Signal Creek Campground, Bakewell Lake requires a much higher degree of preparation. There are no stores nearby to pick up forgotten supplies, so a detailed checklist is your best friend during the packing process.

Best Time to Visit & Booking Tips

The best time to visit Bakewell Lake Cabin is from late June through September. During these months, the weather is relatively mild, and the fish are most active. However, even in mid-summer, rain is a frequent companion in the Tongass National Forest, so high-quality rain gear is non-negotiable. If you are aiming for a fall trip, the changing colors of the tundra and forest are spectacular, though the temperatures drop significantly at night.

Because this cabin is in such high demand, the booking window typically opens six months in advance. Sites often fill up within seconds of becoming available. To increase your chances, we recommend using an automated alert service that notifies you the moment a cancellation occurs. Persistence is key; many of the best wilderness experiences come to those who are ready to book at a moment’s notice.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Bakewell Lake Cabin?

Most visitors arrive via floatplane from Ketchikan. There is also a trail from Bakewell Arm, but it requires a boat journey through saltwater first and then a hike, making it a more complex logistical feat.

Is there cell service at the cabin?

No, there is absolutely no cell service or Wi-Fi. It is highly recommended to carry a satellite communication device like a Garmin inReach for emergencies.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, pets are allowed, but they must be kept under control at all times due to the high presence of wildlife, including bears and wolves.

Conclusion

A stay at the Bakewell Lake Cabin is more than just a camping trip; it is an immersion into the raw, powerful beauty of the Alaskan panhandle. From the thrill of a floatplane landing to the quiet evenings spent watching the sun set behind towering mountains, every moment here feels earned and extraordinary. While the “High Demand” status makes it a challenge to book, the reward of having an entire Alaskan lake to yourself is well worth the effort. Prepare thoroughly, respect the land, and get ready for a wilderness adventure that you will remember for the rest of your life.