Refuge Public Use Cabin

Doroshin Bay Cabin

Description

A historic 14' x 16' foot rustic log cabin built around the turn of the century. This cabin was built as a mining cabin and later used by early trappers and hunters. Visit the cabin history section for additional information.

Facilities

Maximum occupancy: 2

One bunk bed, table with benches, wood stove, splitting maul, crosscut saw, broom, shovel, water bucket, fire extinguisher, established campfire ring, and outhouse.

NOT included: running water, electricity, mattress or bedding, cooking utensils, or cut firewood.

Access

Access to the cabin is by boat, float plane, ski plane, skiing, and snowmobile. The closest boat ramp and road access is Upper Skilak Campground via Skilak road and Upper Skilak Road.

Location

The cabin is located on the eastern shore of Skilak Lake in the Kenai Wilderness area. Refer to USGS map Kenai B-1. GPS: Latitude 60o25.573, Longitude 150 o08.437. NAD 83 or WGS 84, Degree, Decimal, Minutes.

Terrain/Vegetation

Cabin is in a rocky shoreline area, overlooking Doroshin Bay of Skilak Lake. Surrounded by scattered trees, shrubs, grasses, and wildflowers and is within the 1990 Pothole Lake Fire boundaries. A large wetland area is just north of the cabin. Cabin elevation is approximately 155 feet.

Reservations

Occupancy of Refuge cabins is by permit only ($35 per night per party). How to reserve this cabin

Recreation Opportunities

This cabin offers seclusion and fishing along with sightseeing, wildlife viewing and exploring. The cabin is also popular for hunters in the fall and snowmobilers in the winter. Contact the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge for snowmobiling regulations in this area. Review Alaska Department of Fish and Game hunting and fishing regulations.

Special Considerations

The seclusion of this cabin necessitates being prepared to handle any emergency situation. Skilak Lake is a large glacial lake with recurring high winds and waves. Inclement weather may cause an unexpected extension of the trip. The shore is exposed to southerly winds; large waves could swamp boats not pulled out on the beach. There is little beach area available during high water and beach rocks are angular and sharp. Large, submerged rocks near shore present a hazard to approaching boats and floatplanes. Winter travelers should use particular caution due to hanging and intermittent ice conditions and thickness. Ice conditions particularly near the Kenai River inlet depend on prevailing temperatures and are subject to change. Bringing a personal cooking stove is recommended. Carry in potable water or boil surface water 5 minutes before drinking. Remember to pack out your trash. Contact the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge office at (907) 262-7021 for more detailed information.

Last updated: December 2, 2011