USFS - National Forest Recreation Cabins
Safety
You must bring your own bedding and cooking gear. Be sure to check the specific stove information on the cabin you desire. The USFS does not provide stove oil for those cabins with oil stoves. Oil can be purchased in the local community. It must be #1 diesel oil for the stoves to work properly. Oil use varies from 5-10 gallons per week depending on the time of year and the weather. Cabins with wood stoves are supplied with wood (that will usually need to be split). An ax or maul is provided at each cabin with a wood stove, but you should bring a small ax or hatchet just in case the tools at the cabin are missing. It is also recommended that a gas stove be included in your gear for cooking. A supply of insect repellent is often needed during the summer months.
The Tongass National Forest is located in the coastal rain forest of Southeast Alaska. The Chugach National Forest is located in South-Central Alaska, near Prince William Sound. Summer temperatures usually range from the mid 40's to the mid 60's (F) with extremes dipping into the 30's and "soaring" into the 80's on the Tongass and 90's on the Chugach. Annual rainfall in downtown Juneau averages over 90 inches. Good raingear and warm clothing are essential. Layers of wool clothing and rubber boots are standard dress in all the areas of Southeast Alaska. Although drier, the Chugach National Forest can also receive significant rainfall.
Rain gear, rubber boats and warm clothing are essential item for preventing hypothermia. Extra food and clothing are recommended, as your stay may be prolonged by bad weather or poor visibility for travel. In remote locations, you are on your own. Be cautious in bear country. Clam diggers should be cautious of Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning caused by eating clams, mussels and other shellfish. In remote areas you are on your own. We recommend packing local topographical maps, a compass, waterproof matches, a strong knife, a first-aid kit, a space blanket, candles, flares, and a gun (30.06 or larger caliber) for unexpected emergencies. In some parts of the Chugach National Forest campfires are prohibited where very dry conditions exist.
Water can be obtained from nearby streams or lakes and should be boiled before drinking. Many of the river and streams are crystal clear in appearance and give the impression that water is pure and safe to drink. Clarity is not an indication of the absence of bacteria or parasites. When surface water is used for drinking or cooking, it should be treated or boiled for 5 minutes to avoid contracting giardiasis or other diseases.
If you become lost or separated from others in your group, stay calm. Sit down and collect your thoughts. Try to determine your whereabouts. If you are not sure of finding your way to safety, it is better to stay where you are. Make a shelter, as exposure to the elements is more dangerous than hunger or thirst. Signal with fire, flares, or a series of three gunshots.
Copies of fishing and hunting regulations may be obtained from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), Box 3-2000, Juneau, Ak. 99802
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