The Bunkhouse is a small, straightforward place to stay at the corner of Princess Street and Second Avenue, in the middle of the historic grid. Where many of Dawson's hotels aim for comfort and a dining room, the Bunkhouse aims for simplicity and value. Room types include a triple room with a queen and a twin bed, and double and twin rooms that share a bathroom. Guests get free Wi-Fi in rooms, free parking, daily housekeeping, heating, desks and luggage storage, and there are barbecue grills for those who want to cook outside. It is a clean and practical base, not a resort. Pets are not accepted apart from service animals.
Location and getting around
The property is on Second Avenue, a short walk from the waterfront, the Visitor Information Centre and the main sights. Restaurants, shops and the museum are all within a few blocks, so you can leave the car parked and explore on foot. For the goldfields, Tombstone and the Midnight Dome you will need a vehicle or a tour operator, and the staff can usually point you in the right direction.
Rooms and facilities
The rooms are simple. The double and twin rooms use a shared bathroom, while the triple room is arranged for small families or three friends travelling together. Heating keeps rooms comfortable on cool nights, desks suit anyone who needs to catch up on emails, and express check-in and check-out keep arrivals straightforward. There is no on-site restaurant, so plan to eat in town, and the barbecue grills are a nice touch in summer for picnic dinners after a day in the goldfields.
Who it suits and good to know: it suits independent travellers, cyclists, hikers and families on a budget, and anyone who values location over amenities. Check-in runs from mid-afternoon into the evening, so tell the hotel if you plan to arrive late, and check-out is in the morning. Because bathrooms are shared in most rooms, it is worth asking for a private option if that matters to you.
Confirm seasonal opening dates before you book, since small properties in Dawson may close for the winter or reduce services, and ask about the best place to park if you are travelling in a larger vehicle.
How to use it
The Bunkhouse works best as a place to sleep and store your gear while you spend your days out in the goldfields or on the water. Pack a towel and toiletries if you are not sure what is provided, bring snacks for the barbecue and plan to take your main meals in town. For a longer stay, the low-key atmosphere and the central location make it easy to settle in, and the neighbours are usually fellow travellers happy to swap tips about the road.
Why stay here
- ✓Free parking
- ✓Free Wi-Fi in rooms
- ✓Barbecue grills
- ✓Daily housekeeping
- ✓Heating
- ✓Desks in rooms
- ✓Luggage storage
- ✓Express check-in and check-out
Good questions
Do the rooms have private bathrooms?+
The double and twin rooms share a bathroom. Ask about other room types if you want a private bathroom.
Is there a restaurant?+
No, there is no restaurant on site, but there are barbecue grills and plenty of places to eat within a few blocks.
Are pets allowed?+
Only service animals are accepted.
