Patching Lake Cabin
Tongass National Forest
Patching Lake Cabin sits on the north end of Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River 20 miles from Ketchikan, Alaska. The cabin is open year-round and makes an
excellent base for experiencing this corner of Alaska with its recreation options and abundant wildlife.
The cabin is remote and accessible only by float plane, depending on conditions. This primitive cabin has no electricity, indoor plumbing or cell phone
coverage. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
The 12x14-ft. ( pan-abode style ) log cabin accommodates 6 people with 2 single and 2 double
bunks. Other amenities include a table and benches, a cooking counter, food storage, broom, splitting maul, and an outhouse. A wood stove is provided for heat. NOTE: Firewood may be available, but visitors are encouraged to contact the Ketchikan Misty Fjords Ranger District to check the status of the woodshed.
Drinking water is not available at the cabin. Visitors must bring their own water supply, but water is also available from a nearby creek, but should be treated before drinking or cooking with it ( water safety ).
Visitors should also bring sleeping bags, sleeping pads, cooking gear, lanterns or flashlights, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and fire starter.
Rain gear and boots are recommended. Visitors are expected to pack out their trash, gear and food and clean the cabin before leaving (additional cabin details).
Need to Know
- This facility is located in an extremely remote and wild area; before making a reservation, become aware of bear, water, and weather safety (including cold)
- Recreating in Alaska can present both obvious and hidden dangers; please be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for extended stays due to occasionally poor weather
- No drinking water is available at this cabin
- Pack out all gear, food and trash
- Use of this cabin by a commercial operator, such as an outfitter or guide, is not allowed
- Same day reservations allowed for this cabin
- There are no discounts for Golden Age/Access Passports for Alaska cabin rentals
- The person holding the reservation for this cabin must be at least 18 years of age and must be a member of the party using the cabin
- Learn more about the Tongass National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by purchasing firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The cabin sits at the lake's edge, backed by a rainforest of old-growth cedar, Sitka spruce and western hemlock. This is a beautiful location where the Naha River
flows from Chamberlain Lake into Patching Lake. Visitors can stand on the front deck and gaze out over the lake and the surrounding forest and mountains or explore the area from the gravel bar in front of the cabin.
Wildlife includes Sitka black-tail deer, black bear, beaver and wolf (bear safety and precautions). Geese and trumpeter swans are often seen on the lake.
Recreation
Boating, fishing and hunting are popular activities at this cabin. Resident cutthroat trout are available in Patching and Chamberlain Lakes, but there is no access
trail to Chamberlain Lake from the cabin. For information about fishing and hunting permits and seasons, visit the Alaska Department of Fish and Game website.
A 14-foot aluminum skiff with oars is provided for rowing around the lake, but visitors must provide their own life jackets. The skiff can use a short shaft motor,
which is not provided.
Contact Information
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KETCHIKAN AK
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 907-225-2148
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Approximately 20 miles north of Ketchikan, Alaska, on the north end of
Patching Lake near the inlet of the Naha River. Access is by float plane
only. Refer to USGS Ketchikan C-5.
In fall, winter, and early spring, the cabin may be inaccessible due to frozen lake surface (float planes cannot land). Please contact the Ketchikan-Misty Fjords Ranger District for information prior to making reservations during these periods.
Available Campsites
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