James Lake Cabin

James Lake Cabin is a backcountry public-use log cabin in Alaska’s Nancy Lake State Recreation Area, set up as the only building on James Lake and accessed off the canoe loop trail system. It uses a combination lock and has bunk beds plus a woodstove, with an outside picnic table and outside fire ring.

The cabin sleeps 6 (maximum) with a 5-night stay limit. Summer access is by canoe or kayak via the canoe trail system, including lake crossings and portages totaling about 3–4 miles and taking roughly 3–4 hours; winter access is by registered snowmachine, skis, snowshoe, or dog sled using the winter trail (ATVs are prohibited). No planes are allowed on James Lake.

Use requires a reservation through Reserve America, and there is a $60.00 USD fee with credit/debit cards accepted. Firewood is heated by a wood stove using brought-in wood; bring sleeping gear and cooking/fuel supplies such as a sleeping bag and pad/air mattress, food and cookware, stove fuel, fire starters/matches, and water purification. Pets are allowed, and cabins are not usable without a permit; keep pets under control and clean up after them.