The great state of Alaska has more than 180 forest cabins for public and private use. These cabins, owned by state and federal agencies, nonprofits and individuals, are generally located near trails, water and mountains. Each organization sets its own guidelines, dates of availability and rental price. Cabins are generally outfitted with the basics such as, sleeping bunks or mats, stoves, basic furniture and an outdoor toilet.
Chugach National Forest has more than 40 forest cabins in its five-plus million-acre property. Most cabins are accessible by car, and some you will need a boat or plane to reach. Most of the 40 cabins are rustic and amenities vary from a wood stove, splitting maul, rainwater catchment barrel and an outhouse. The largest city adjacent to the forest is Anchorage. The cost of the cabin depends on your length of stay and season booked. You will need to reserve at least six months in advance as these cabins book up fast.
Chugach National Forest
3301 C St.
Anchorage, AK 99503
907-743-9500
fs.fed.us
Tongass National Cabins, located in Southeast Alaska, offer cabins for a cheap rate. As of 2010, rates are just $20 to $50 per night. You can rent your own true Alaskan cabin complete with wood stoves, hand-crafted bunks and the wild wilderness right outside your door. Campers will need to bring their own sleeping bags, utensils, toiletry items and food. You can boat, fish, hike and picnic at Tongass National Park.
Tongass National Forest
Federal Building
648 Mission St.
Ketchikan, AK 99901
907-225-3101
fs.fed.us
The Yukon-Charley Rivers National Preserve has a handful of rustic cabins in the forest and along the river for public use. Most cabins are available by boat on the Yukon river and some by foot in the forest. The National Bluff Cabin, the Glenn Creek Cabin and the Kandik River Cabin are three of Yukon-Charley's most frequented cabins. Most cabins are equipped with sleeping quarters, stoves and outhouses. As with most Alaska forest cabins, you will need to bring your own sleeping bags, cooking utensils and lamp oil. Make sure to rent in advance as these cabins book quickly, especially in the warmer months.
Yukon-Charley River's National Preserve
Eagle Visitor Center
P.O. Box 167
Eagle, AK 99738
907-547-2233
nps.gov/yuch
