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Camping · Alaska

HELM CREEK CABIN

USFS · Campground · Fee

Fast facts

Cost
Fee charged
Managed by
USFS
Type
Campground
Reservations
recreation.gov
Phone
907-225-2148
Coordinates
55.6517, -131.9809
Last verified
September 19, 2026
55.6517° N · 131.9809° W
Last verifiedSeptember 19, 2026

About this place

Overview Helm Creek Cabin is located on the east shore of Helm Bay near the mouth of Helm Creek. This rustic retreat is open year-round, offering opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing and recreation. The site can be accessed by float plane, boat or kayak, depending on conditions. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities. Recreation Helm Bay is especially known for excellent crabbing, as well as saltwater fishing for salmon, halibut and red snapper. Trout and Dolly Varden fishing is possible in nearby Helm Lake, but there is no trail to the lake. Local tide tables should be consulted before taking a boat out on the bay. Sea kayaking is also possible. Facilities This 12-by-14 ft. (pan-abode style) cabin has two single and two double bunks, to sleep up to six people. It is also equipped with a table and benches, wood stove, splitting maul, broom and an outhouse. Bring your own firewood as it cannot be guaranteed. A mooring float is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Water and electricity are not provided. Water is available from a nearby creek, but guests should be sure to treat water before drinking or cooking with it (water safety tips). It is recommended that guests bring their own water supply. Other items to pack include sleeping bags, sleeping pads, lanterns or flashlights, cookware, plates, utensils, food, toilet paper, garbage bags, a fire extinguisher and matches, among other necessities. Guests are expected to pack out trash and clean the cabin before leaving (click here for more cabin details). Natural Features The cabin faces northwest, with a good view toward the head of Helm Bay and the surrounding mountains. It is adjacent to a large saltwater tidal flat at the outlet of Helm Creek. A moderately steep sloping beach is located in front of cabin. This area is home to black and brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer and mountain goats ( bear safety information ). Seals, whales and other marine mammals may be seen in Helm Bay.

From the USFS.Official page

Is HELM CREEK CABIN free?

No. HELM CREEK CABIN charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.

How do I get to HELM CREEK CABIN?

The cabin is located on the east shore of Helm Bay, near the mouth of Helm Creek. It is about 24 miles from Ketchikan or about 12 miles from the Clover Pass area. The cabin is accessible by floatplane or by boat. A first-come, first-serve buoy is located directly in front of the cabin. There is a moderately steep sloping beach in front of the cabin where a skiff can be landed. Refer To: USGS Ketchikan C6

Nearby

No other services within 50 mi on the record.

SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 19, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.

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Disclaimer TerrainKit is an independent product with no affiliation with, sponsorship from or endorsement by the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service or any other public agency. Site and access information is compiled from publicly available sources and can go out of date without notice. Confirm current rules, closures, fire restrictions and stay limits with the managing ranger district or field office before you camp.
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47.5053° N · 111.3008° W
HELM CREEK CABIN, Camping in Alaska - TerrainKit