Explore Alaska’s Last Frontier with State Park Cabins for Big Families

Alaska State Parks are a great choice for adventurous families who don’t mind rustic cabins. The state offers more than 80 public use cabins in stunning locations along trails, remote lakes, streams, and picturesque saltwater beaches. These cabins in recreation areas, state parks, and marine parks offer an ideal getaway for families of 5 to 8 people. Additionally, many locations can accommodate larger families of 9 to 12.. Researching the Alaska State Park website, we found 25 parks with cabins that sleep 6 or more.

While some locations are accessible by vehicle; many necessitate boat or plane transportation, while others require trekking in. While the listed sites below accommodate big families be aware that many include wooden sleeping platforms and not mattresses. You’ll need to plan on packing sleeping bags or other sleep gear for your crew.

All cabin images courtesy Alaska State Parks. Reserve your Alaska public use cabin at Reserve America.

Afognak Island State Park

Afognak Island State Park is located just north of Kodiak Island and encompasses approximately 116,000 acres of rugged topography and dense old-growth Sitka spruce forests. The park is accessible by boat or float plane, with air charters providing service to the island. The northwestern region joins the US Fish & Wildlife Service’s Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge, offering visitors a prime opportunity for wildlife spotting including Kodiak brown bears, Sitka black-tailed deer, and a variety of birds. Families can enjoy a wide range of activities such as hiking, fishing, bird watching, and even beachcombing. Accessible by float plane, which, during certain seasons, may freeze early in mid-October limiting access. The cozy and secluded nature of these cabins offers a unique and off-the-grid experience for adventurous families.

For large families, the park offers three public-use cabins, each accommodating between 6 to 10 people. The Laura Lake Cabin and Pillar Lake Cabin both come equipped with bunks that comfortably sleep 4 people with a maximum capacity of 6, while the Discoverer Bay Cabin can host up to 10 people. These rustic cabins have basic amenities, including bunks, a table, and a wood-heating stove. Although the cabins do not have running water or electricity, visitors can obtain water from the lake and are advised to purify it before use. Each cabin has a woodshed and an outhouse nearby, with firewood generally provided and ready to be split. Visitors should bring their own cook stove and lanterns or LED lighting, as well as any pots, pans, and utensils they might need. 

Birch Lake State Recreation Site

Birch Lake State Recreation Site is an excellent destination for family travelers. Nestled between a picturesque lily-pad-covered lake and lush forested wetlands, the park offers a serene getaway. Located approximately 60 miles southeast of Fairbanks. Facilities include tables, fireplaces, and sitting benches for day use, a developed boat launch and courtesy dock with ADA access, drinking water wells, and toilets. Nearby attractions such as Harding Lake State Recreation Area, Salcha River State Recreation Site, and Quartz Lake State Recreation Area provide more opportunities for exploration and adventure.

The park has one cabin that sleeps up to six people. This cabin provides a cozy retreat surrounded by nature, featuring a back-in driveway with ample space for vehicles up to 35 feet long. While it offers comforts such as a caretaker presence and ADA accessibility, it’s important to note that the cabin does not have running water or electricity, encouraging a rustic but comfortable stay. Book early as this cabin is highly sought after for its idyllic location and family-friendly amenities.

Caines Head State Recreation Area

Caines Head State Recreation Area, located approximately seven nautical miles south of Seward, Alaska, offers a historical and scenic retreat for families. Nestled against the backdrop of rolling alpine meadows and dramatic peaks, this 6,000-acre park is famous for its towering 650-foot headland that grants breathtaking views over Resurrection Bay and the North Pacific Ocean. Accessible by a 4.5-mile coastal trail beginning at Lowell Point—which includes a two-mile stretch of beach that must be crossed at low tide—or by boat, the park is ideal for adventurous families.

Along North Beach, you’ll find picnic shelters, camping sites, and latrines, with hiking trails leading to historical World War II sites like Fort McGilvray and South Beach Garrison. Nearby parks like Thumb Cove State Marine Park and Scout Lake State Recreation Site extend your adventure options, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as sea kayaking, berry picking, and beach access.

Caines Head features three public use cabins that comfortably sleep 6-8. The Tonsina Cabin can accommodate up to six, while Derby Cove Cabin and Callisto Canyon Cabin each sleep up to eight. These cozy cabins are equipped with wood heating stoves, wooden sleeping platforms, tables, benches, and nearby latrines. Though they lack running water and electricity, nearby creeks provide water that can be purified for use.

Channel Islands State Marine Park

Channel Islands State Marine Park, located between 12 and 30 miles northwest of Juneau, Alaska, is an idyllic destination for family adventures. Nestled along Favorite Channel and Auke Bay, this park is accessible by small boats from Amalga Harbor, Auke Bay, or North Douglas boat launches, and also by float plane from the Juneau Airport. The park offers wildlife viewing, photography opportunities, waterfowl and big game hunting, sport fishing, boating, kayaking, and camping. Its coastal location offers views of diverse wildlife such as Bald Eagles, humpback whales, and seals. Nearby attractions include Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, St. James Bay State Marine Park, and Point Bridget State Park, all within a short boat ride.

Channel Islands State Marine Park features three public use cabins, perfect for accommodating large families. The Salamander Cabin, Lincoln Cabin, and Handtrollers Cove Cabin (Rupe Andrews Cabin) each sleep up to 10 people, providing ample space for families with 3-8 kids. These cabins provide a more rustic getaway experience, offering shelter and basic amenities, though they do not have running water or electricity. Families should come prepared with their own water supply and be equipped for camp-style cooking and lighting. With sturdy construction and stunning views, these cabins serve as a cozy hub from which to explore the natural beauty and abundant marine life of the surrounding islands.

Chena River State Recreation Area

Located just twenty-six miles east of Fairbanks, Alaska, the Chena River State Recreation Area offers a stunning retreat for family travelers seeking adventure and natural beauty. Spanning over a quarter-million acres of rolling hills, forested trails, and serene river landscapes, this park is perfect for year-round activities ranging from summer hiking and fishing to winter dog sledding and snowmobiling.

Luckily, the park is accessible by vehicle. For families with 3-7 kids, the park’s public use cabins offer comfortable lodging options. Seven cabins, sleeping 6-9, are perfect for larger families. Cabins such as the Stiles Creek Cabin, Lower Angel Creek Cabin, and the Chena River Cabin come equipped with necessary amenities including heating, basic furniture, and outdoor fire pits. However, these cabins do not have running water or electricity, so families should come prepared with supplies like water containers and lanterns.

Chugach State Park

Chugach State Park is a vast wilderness area located in Southcentral Alaska, mostly within the Municipality of Anchorage. Spread over approximately 495,000 acres, it is one of the largest state parks in the United States. The park’s westernmost boundary is only seven miles from downtown Anchorage, bordered by the Knik Arm to the north and Turnagain Arm to the south. The park offers outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and boating.

For families with 3-6 kids, Chugach State Park offers several public use cabins that can comfortably accommodate larger groups. These cabins, such as the Beluga Cabin and Boretide Cabin in the Bird Campground, sleep up to 12 people. Other cabins like Dolly Varden Cabin and Yuditna Creek Cabin at Eklutna Lake also sleep 8 or more. These rustic cabins provide a cozy retreat in the wilderness, equipped with amenities like fireplaces. While the cabins offer a great escape from daily life, they do not have running water or electricity, so families should be prepared to bring their own water supply and enjoy the experience of living closer to nature.

Clover Island State Marine Park

Clover Island State Marine Park is located midway between the communities of Juneau and Gustavus, Alaska, situated on an island in Lynn Canal between Point Couverdon and Howard Bay. Known locally as Clover Island, this park is accessible only by boat or floatplane. The island features a scenic coastal spruce and hemlock forest, pristine beaches, and fascinating intertidal zones. Families can enjoy outdoor activities including fishing, hunting, hiking, wildlife viewing, beachcombing, camping, and photography. For those interested in exploring more, Channel Islands State Marine Park, Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, and St. James Bay State Marine Park are all within a short distance.

The Clover Beach Cabin at Clover Island State Marine Park offers one cabin accommodating up to six people. This public-use cabin is located centrally on the island, approximately one mile south of Howard Bay. The cabin is equipped with basic amenities, including sleeping space for six and an outhouse, but does not have running water or electricity, providing a true off-grid experience. Guests will need to bring water for their stay and be prepared for an adventure immersed in nature.

Decision Point Marine Park

Decision Point State Marine Park is located on the south side of Passage Canal, approximately eight miles east of Whittier, Alaska. Ideal for adventurous family travelers, this serene destination is accessible primarily by kayak or small boat, making it a perfect spot for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The park is appreciated for its natural beauty and offers facilities like four tent platforms which can be accessed via a boardwalk trail, cooking areas, and bear-proof lockers for food storage.

One cabin is available on the west side of Squirrel Cove in Decision Point Marine Park. This spacious cabin can comfortably sleep up to eight people. The cabin does not offer running water or electricity. Families can enjoy the rustic charm of staying in a cabin nestled in Alaska’s wilderness while being just a short walk away from the conveniences offered within the park.

Denali State Park

Denali State Park, located approximately 100 air miles north of Anchorage, Alaska, spans an impressive 325,240 acres, offering a diverse range of recreational opportunities from roadside camping to wilderness exploration. Conveniently divided by the George Parks Highway, the park provides easy access for travelers coming from Anchorage or Fairbanks. The stunning landscape, bordered by the Talkeetna Mountains to the east and the Alaska Range to the west, features meandering streams and alpine tundra. Families can explore Denali National Park and Preserve 70 miles away.

For families of 6, the park offers three public use cabins at Byers Lake. These cozy cabins provide a back-in driveway for easy access and are nestled in scenic locations offering a true wilderness experience. While the cabins do not have running water or electricity, they offer essential shelter and a rustic charm. These cabins also provide simple amenities such as heating stoves and outhouse facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay while being near the park’s beautiful trails and lakes for endless outdoor adventures.

Eagle Beach State Recreation Area

Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, located at the scenic confluence of the Eagle and Herbert Rivers in Alaska, offers an ideal getaway for families. Spanning approximately 600 acres, the area features a campground, two day-use areas, and an extensive trail system. The main day-use area is fully accessible, with a quarter-mile paved trail and viewing scopes to enhance your wildlife-watching experience. From this central hub, families can explore several trails, including some longer routes that extend up to six miles through stunning forested valleys. The pristine white sandy beach and expansive intertidal area are perfect for bird and sea life watching.

For larger families, Eagle Beach State Recreation Area provides two spacious public use cabins, Berry Patch Cabin and Saturday Creek Cabin, each accommodating up to ten people. While the cabins are designed for a rustic experience, they provide essential amenities for a comfortable stay. However, it’s important to note that they do not have running water or electricity, so families should prepare accordingly by bringing necessary supplies. Both cabins are situated to offer convenient access to the park’s attractions and trails, making them an excellent base for exploring the natural wonders of the area.

Grindall Island State Marine Park

Grindall Island State Marine Park, located 18 air miles from Ketchikan and 40 air miles from Craig, Alaska, has cabins to sleep families of up to 8. Accessible by boat or floatplane, the park offers a picturesque escape characterized by lush forests, abundant marine life, and breathtaking views. Families can enjoy king salmon fishing, beachcombing, and wildlife viewing, including regular sightings of humpback and orca whales in Grindall Passage, and a sea lion haul out on the island’s southeast side.

The Grindall Island Public Use Cabin provides essential comforts like sleeping quarters and shelter, it is essential to note that it does not feature modern amenities such as running water and electricity. Families should prepare for a back-to-nature experience, bringing supplies for cooking and other necessities.

K’esugi Ken Campground

Nestled within the scenic Denali State Park in Alaska, K’esugi Ken Campground is easily accessible via the George Parks Highway. Once there, families can explore hiking trails that meander through the breathtaking wilderness. For those enthusiastic about exploration, nearby locales like the Nancy Lake State Recreation Site and Denali National Park offer additional opportunities for outdoor excitement and wildlife viewing.

The Public Use Cabins at K’esugi Ken provide a perfect refuge for larger families, accommodating families of up to 10. Situated within the Tent Loop, both the Denali Cabin (site 423) and Tokosha Cabin (site 422) feature accessible back-in driveway access. Although rustic, the cabins are equipped with essential amenities such as heating for cooler nights, bunks for sleeping, and dining furniture. While the cabins do not have running water or electricity, potable water is available within the campground, and well-placed vault toilets are nearby.

Kachemak Bay State Park

Kachemak Bay State Park spans a breathtaking 400,000 acres of mountains, glaciers, forests, and ocean. The park is accessible only by boat or airplane, adding a sense of adventure right from the start. Visitors can arrange boat rentals, water taxis, or air charters from nearby Homer. It’s an ideal destination for family travelers, offering fishing, kayaking, hiking, and bird-watching. The park features over 80 miles of trails and several campgrounds with basic amenities, such as fireplaces, picnic tables, and outhouses.

For families of up to 6, Kachemak Bay State Park offers several cozy public use cabins that can comfortably sleep up to six or more people. These rustic cabins, located in idyllic spots like Halibut Cove Lagoon and Grewingk Glacier, provide a peaceful and immersive nature experience. Amenities in these cabins include basic furniture, bunk beds, tables, and wood stoves. The cabins do not have running water or electricity.

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area

Nancy Lake State Recreation Area is located approximately a 67-mile drive north of Anchorage along the Parks Highway. Nearby attractions include the Nancy Lake State Recreation Site just a short distance away, as well as Finger Lake State Recreation Site and the expansive Chugach State Park. The area is perfect for outdoor activities such as canoeing, fishing, hiking, and camping in the summer, with cross-country skiing, dog mushing, and snow machining taking center stage in the winter.

For families with 3-6 children, Nancy Lake State Recreation Area provides several public use cabins that can comfortably accommodate families of up to 8. Cabins such as Nancy Lake #2, #4, Red Shirt Lake #3, #4, and Rhein Lake Cabin sleep up to 8 people, while others like the Red Shirt Lake #1 can house up to 7, and multiple others sleep up to 6. Each cabin includes back-in driveway access for easy unloading and loading of gear. However, it’s essential to note that these cabins do not have running water or electricity, so visitors should be prepared with their own water supplies and alternative lighting options.

Oliver Inlet State Marine Park

Located 19 miles south of Juneau at the northern end of Seymour Canal on Admiralty Island, Oliver Inlet State Marine Park offers a unique adventure for outdoor-loving families. The park is renowned for its incredible wildlife, providing an up-close look at the world’s greatest concentration of nesting bald eagles, seals, sea lions, and even whales that frequent the canal year-round. Be sure to stay vigilant, especially in the fall, as the park also boasts one of the largest brown bear populations in Southeast Alaska. While visiting, you can also explore nearby parks such as Taku Harbor State Marine Park, Clover Island State Marine Park, and Eagle Beach State Recreation Area.

For families needing ample space, the park has one cabin accommodating up to eight people. Although the cabin does not supply running water or electricity, it remains a comfortable base with cozy sleeping arrangements for the whole family.

Pasagshak River State Recreation Site

Pasagshak River State Recreation Site, created in 1980, is a delightful destination for families looking to immerse themselves in nature. Located just an hour’s drive from Kodiak, along one of the island’s few scenic roads. Families will enjoy breathtaking views along the way and upon arrival.

The recreation site has one cabin that comfortably sleeps up to eight people, making it perfect for families with 3-6 kids. The cabin’s design ensures a cozy retreat with a back-in driveway. While it provides shelter and a beautiful place to stay, it is important to note that the cabin does not have running water or electricity, so families should plan accordingly. Reservations for the cabin must be made at least one day ahead of arrival and can be booked up to seven months in advance, ensuring plenty of time to prepare for an unforgettable nature-filled getaway.

Point Bridget State Park

Forty miles north of Juneau, Point Bridget State Park spans 2,850 acres featuring meadows, cliffs, salmon spawning streams, rocky beaches, and dazzling sea views. Families can enjoy hiking and exploring rainforest muskegs to winter skiing and snowshoeing in open forests. The park’s accessibility makes it a favored destination for family adventures. Nearby attractions include St. James Bay State Marine Park, Eagle Beach State Recreation Area, and Channel Islands State Marine Park.

The park offers three public use cabins—Cowee Meadow Cabin, Camping Cove Cabin, and Blue Mussel Beach Cabin—each comfortably accommodating up to 8 people. These cabins provide a rustic yet charming experience with basic amenities, including sleeping areas and proximity to beautiful natural features. However, it is important to note that these cabins do not have running water or electricity, so families should prepare accordingly.

Prince William Sound

Prince William Sound, situated in the Yakataga area of Alaska, is a great destination for families seeking an adventurous getaway in Alaska. This scenic wonderland lies between Cape Suckling on the west and Cape Yakataga on the east, with the awe-inspiring Bering Glacier to the north and the dynamic Gulf of Alaska to the south. Family-friendly activities include exploring the endless stretches of sandy beaches, discovering mineralized rocks and glass floats, fishing, hiking, and observing wildlife. Accessing the park is straightforward; reservations can be made up to seven months in advance, and the region is supported by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and the University of Alaska, ensuring well-maintained facilities for visitors.

The park features two public use cabins that comfortably sleep six or more, perfect for large families. These cedar-constructed cabins, positioned within the remote and wild landscapes of the Yakataga State Game Refuge and just outside it, offer a rustic yet cozy retreat. Each cabin can accommodate up to eight people. These cabins are beautifully set against the backdrop of Bering Glacier and provide direct access to the serene Vitus Lake and the vast, sandy beaches of the Gulf. Although the cabins do not have running water or electricity, they provide essential amenities to maximize comfort in an outdoor setting.

Quartz Lake State Recreation Area

Quartz Lake State Recreation Area covers 600 acres bordered by two beautiful lakes. This popular destination offers swimming in designated areas, beach volleyball, and picnic spots. The park also features two boat launches, making it easy to enjoy fishing or boating on the lakes. For convenience, the park is equipped with water facilities and toilets. Quartz Lake State Recreation Area is accessible by car and is situated near several other lovely parks, such as Birch Lake State Recreation Site, Donnelly Creek State Recreation Site, and Harding Lake State Recreation Area, all within a 36-mile radius.

The park has one cabin that sleeps families of up to 6. Site 115 has a back-in driveway that can accommodate longer vehicles. However, it is noteworthy that the cabin does not include running water or electricity, so families should plan accordingly. Despite these limits, the natural beauty and outdoor adventure opportunities more than compensate, providing an ideal setting for unforgettable family memories.

Settler’s Cove State Recreation Site

Settlers Cove State Recreational Site is in the temperate rainforest of Southern Southeast Alaska. Located at mile 18 on the N. Tongass Highway in the Ketchikan District, this recreational area boasts a sandy beach along Clover Passage. Families interested in kayaking or canoeing will find convenient access points and short-term parking areas tailored for easy launch. Nearby attractions include the Totem Bight State Historic Park, just 6.46 miles away, and the Refuge Cove State Recreation Site, a mere 7.17 miles away, ensuring plenty of exploration opportunities for your family.

One cabin at the recreation site comfortably sleeps up to eight people, making it ideal for those with 3-6 kids. This cozy cabin includes a back-in driveway for easy access. Cabins are rustic with no potable water, have wooden sleeping platforms, and you’ll need to bring in your own kerosene for the heater.

Shuyak Island State Park

Shuyak Island State Park is a stunning retreat within the Kodiak Archipelago in Alaska, spanning over 48,000 acres with pristine Sitka spruce forests, rugged coastlines, and tranquil beaches. Accessible only via floatplane services provided by several air charters, this remote island offers a true wilderness adventure. While there are no visitor services once you arrive, the park’s contact station at Big Bay can provide emergency communication if needed.

For families with three to six kids, Shuyak Island State Park offers four spacious public-use cabins—Deer Haven Cabin, Salmon Cove Cabin, Eagles Nest Cabin, and Mulcahy View Cabin—that accommodate up to eight people each. These cabins are perfect for large families, providing a cozy haven after a day of exploring. It’s important to note that these cabins do not have running water or electricity.

St. James Bay State Marine Park

St. James Bay State Marine Park is a peaceful destination located approximately 35 miles northwest of Juneau and 45 miles south of Haines, Alaska. Families can access the park via small boat from the Amalga Harbor boat launch, Auke Bay, or Juneau, and by float plane. The park is a haven for outdoor activities including wildlife viewing, photography, waterfowl and big game hunting, sport fishing, boating, kayaking, and camping.

The park has one cabin that will sleep families of 6, the James Bay Public Use Cabin, also known as the Bob Hinman Cabin. While it offers a cozy shelter from the elements, it’s important to note that the cabin does not have running water or electricity. Essential amenities include sturdy wooden bunks, a wood stove for heating, and an outdoor picnic table for family meals.

Taku Harbor State Marine Park

Taku Harbor State Marine Park, located on the eastern shore of Stephens Passage, about 22 miles southeast of Juneau, Alaska, is a scenic destination perfect for families seeking adventure and nature. The 700-acre park, once home to a major salmon cannery, is a popular spot for recreational boaters and serves as a frequent night anchorage for commercial fishing and tour boats. To reach Taku Harbor, you’ll need to take a boat from Juneau.

The park has one cabin that sleeps up to 6, Taku Harbor State Marine Park offers the Taku Harbor Public Use Cabin, also known as the Tiger Olson Cabin. While the cabin does not have running water or electricity, it includes a wood stove for heating, basic furniture, and an outdoor picnic area. .

Thumb Cove State Marine Park

Thumb Cove State Marine Park, situated in the scenic Resurrection Bay, offers a breathtaking getaway for families. The park features stunning rock faces and cascading waterfalls, providing a serene escape from the bay’s afternoon winds and waves. Located just 3.83 miles from Caines Head State Recreation Site, the park is accessible by boat.

The park boasts two spacious public use cabins that are perfect for families with 3-6 kids. The Porcupine Glacier Cabin and the Spruce Glacier Cabin both accommodate up to 8 people, offering ample space for everyone. The Spruce Glacier Cabin is fully wheelchair accessible, though it requires assisted access from the water landing to the beach berm at the end of the boardwalk. While the cabins do not have running water or electricity, they offer a cozy, rustic retreat nestled in the heart of nature.

Woody Island State Recreation Site

Nestled on the north end of Woody Island, the Woody Island State Recreation Site spans 112 acres of scenic beauty and offers a tranquil nature retreat ideal for families. The site is conveniently located close to other attractive recreational spots, such as Fort Abercrombie State Historic Park and Buskin River State Recreation Site, providing additional activities for families. Getting to Woody Island involves a ferry ride from Kodiak.

The park features one spacious cabin, the Tangirnami Cabin (Site 741), which comfortably accommodates up to 8 people, making it perfect for larger families. It is important to note that the cabin does not have running water or electricity, so visitors should come prepared for a more rustic experience.