Camping at Big Shaheen Cabin Campground

Scan for Cancellations

All campsites booked in Big Shaheen Cabin Campground? Create a scan and we’ll notify you when somebody cancels.

Location and Access

Big Shaheen Cabin Campground is located in the Tongass National Forest, which is in Southeast Alaska. It can be found on the northeast coast of Yakobi Island, within the West Chichagof-Yakobi Wilderness area. Access to the cabin is typically by floatplane from the town of Sitka, or by boat. It's important for visitors to check the weather conditions and plan their travel accordingly as the area is remote and subject to frequent changes in weather.

Cabin Features and Amenities

The Big Shaheen Cabin is a traditional rustic forest service cabin that offers basic amenities. It can accommodate around six to eight people and usually features a wood stove for heating, wooden bunks, a table, benches, and an outhouse. Visitors must bring their own sleeping bags, cooking stove and fuel, food, and other essentials. Since there's no electricity or running water, campers must also bring their own water or be prepared to treat water from a nearby source.

Activities and Attractions

Outdoor enthusiasts who stay at the Big Shaheen Cabin Campground can enjoy a variety of activities including:

Fishing: The nearby water bodies offer excellent saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities.
Hiking: There are various trails in the Tongass National Forest ranging from easy to challenging; however, visitors should be aware that trails may not be well-marked or maintained.
Wildlife Watching: The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and marine mammals like whales and seals.
Kayaking and Boating: The surrounding waters are perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and boating, but the sea can be rough, so experience and caution are necessary.
Hunting: With the proper licenses and during the right season, hunting is allowed in designated areas.

Reservations and Fees

Staying at the Big Shaheen Cabin requires a reservation, which can be obtained through the Recreation.gov website or by calling the Forest Service. There is a nightly fee for using the cabin and reservations are typically required well in advance due to its popularity and limited availability.

Considerations and Regulations

Bear Country: The Tongass National Forest is bear country, so proper food storage and bear safety practices are crucial.
Pack it in, Pack it out: Visitors must pack out all trash and leftover food as there are no garbage disposal facilities.
Leave No Trace: It’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
Safety and Preparedness: Given the remote nature of the location, adequate preparation, a solid knowledge of survival skills, and emergency equipment are vital.
Weather: The region can be very wet and cold, even in summer months; it's essential to be prepared for all kinds of weather.

Before setting out for your trip, check the latest updates from the U.S. Forest Service or the local ranger station for any specific restrictions, closures, or alerts that may affect your visit to the Big Shaheen Cabin.