Camping at Goulding Lake Cabin Campground

Location and Access

Goulding Lake Cabin Campground is nestled within the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, which is the largest national forest in the United States. Specifically, the campground is located near Goulding Lake, providing a scenic backdrop and opportunities for water-based activities.

Facilities and Amenities

The facilities at Goulding Lake Cabin Campground tend to be minimal, in line with many backcountry cabins in national forests. Typically, you'll find:

• A simple cabin structure which can vary in amenities and size. Some have bunk beds or sleeping platforms.
• An outhouse or a pit-type toilet.
• The cabin may have a wood stove or a fireplace for heating.
• Typically no running water, electricity, or centralized heating systems.

Note: Visitors need to bring their own supplies including bedding, cooking gear, lighting, and often must transport their own fresh water or be prepared to treat or boil lake water.

Activities

The campground is geared towards outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as:

• Fishing: Goulding Lake may offer opportunities for catching local fish species.
• Canoeing and Kayaking: The lake provides a calm setting for paddling activities.
• Hiking: There are trails in the area for exploring the Tongass National Forest.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is known for its diverse wildlife, including bears, bald eagles, and numerous bird species.
• Photography: The natural beauty of the setting is ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Reservations and Usage

To use the Goulding Lake Cabin Campground, travelers typically must reserve the cabin in advance. Reservations can usually be made through:

• Recreation.gov: The online federal system for booking various outdoor activities and facilities.
• Forest Service: Contacting the local ranger district for availability and booking procedures.

Note: Reservations are often competitive and it's advised to book well in advance for popular times of the year.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors are expected to follow the Leave No Trace principles and the specific rules of the Tongass National Forest, including:

• Pack out all trash and leftover food.
• Carefully manage and extinguish fires.
• Respect local wildlife and maintain a safe distance at all times.
• Adhere to specific regulations regarding fishing or hunting, which may require additional permits.

Weather and Safety

The weather in this part of Alaska can be unpredictable and harsh, particularly outside of the summer season. Visitors should be well-prepared for rain, cold, and potentially snow, depending on the time of year.

For safety, travelers should:

• Let someone know of their travel plans and expected return date.
• Be bear-aware: carry bear spray and know how to store food properly.
• Have a map and compass and know how to navigate as GPS may not be reliable.
• Be prepared for emergencies with a first aid kit and the knowledge of how to use it.

Transportation

Access to the Goulding Lake Cabin Campground may require a combination of driving on remote roads and potentially also by boat or floatplane, depending on the exact location and time of year.

Always check the most current information from the Forest Service or the official Tongass National Forest website before planning your trip, as details about the cabin and access can change due to weather, maintenance, or other factors.