Deer Park Cabin
4.4011 reviewsP.O. BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA
Deer Park Cabin
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates for the cabin are $35 per night during the peak season (May 22 to September 29). Fees do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Deer Park Cabin, where the echoes of forest rangers from 1913 still whisper through the pines. This charming retreat, lovingly crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, invites up to six guests to experience the authentic simplicity of mountain living. While you'll find cozy beds and essential furnishings, the absence of electricity and running water adds to the adventure—think candlelit evenings and stories by lamplight in this perfectly preserved piece of wilderness history.
Deer Park Cabin provides a unique lodging experience centered around a rustic cabin designed for small groups or families. It does not support tent or RV camping, nor does it host primitive camping options.
Historical SignificanceBuilt in 1917 as a lonely outpost for forest rangers protecting these wild lands, Deer Park Cabin stands as a testament to early conservation efforts. When the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived in the 1930s, they transformed the simple structure into the sturdy haven you see today. Every hand-hewn beam and carefully fitted stone tells the story of young men who built America's outdoor legacy, preserving not just the forest, but a way of life that continues to inspire visitors nearly a century later.
Weather and SeasonsSpring awakens the meadow with wildflowers and perfect hiking weather, while early summer bathes the cabin in warm sunshine and crystal-clear skies. These seasons offer the ideal balance of comfortable temperatures and low humidity for outdoor adventures. As winter approaches, heavy snows transform the landscape into a pristine wonderland, though the cabin becomes a sleeping beauty herself—inaccessible until spring's return melts away the deep drifts.
ElevationPerched at 4,400 feet where the air grows crisp and pine-scented, the cabin commands a spectacular meadow setting framed by towering Ponderosa pines. From this lofty vantage point, dramatic granite canyon walls rise like ancient sentinels, their weathered faces catching the changing light throughout the day. The elevation creates a perfect microclimate where mountain meadows meet forest edges, offering cooler summer temperatures and breathtaking views that stretch for miles.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through century-old Ponderosa pines, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the morning sun. The cabin's meadow setting at 4,400 feet serves as nature's amphitheater, where deer graze at dawn and elk bugle at dusk. Just a short walk away, the North Fork Boise River performs its endless symphony, cascading over smooth granite boulders and through dramatic canyon walls. Keep your binoculars handy—bald eagles soar overhead while osprey dive for trout, and if you're lucky, you might spot a black bear foraging in the distance. This is where wilderness puts on its finest show.
Geological RegionNature has sculpted a masterpiece at Deer Park, where an expansive mountain meadow spreads like a green carpet at 4,400 feet, bordered by stately Ponderosa pines that have stood sentinel for generations. The true geological drama unfolds along the North Fork Boise River, where millennia of rushing water has carved through solid granite, creating a spectacular gorge of jagged walls and smooth-worn boulders. Pine trees somehow find purchase in the rocky cliffs, their roots clinging to crevices in a testament to nature's persistence. This unique confluence of meadow, forest, and sculpted stone creates a landscape that feels both intimate and grand.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetailed accessibility features were not explicitly mentioned in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates six people with modest sleeping arrangements such as a futon and bunk beds.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a relatively secluded experience, tucked away in an open meadow surrounded by Ponderosa pines. User reviews praise its quiet and private location.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend closing the gate to prevent unauthorized access to the facilities. The futon may need replacement, and guests should bring extra mantles for gas lights.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the singular camping feature, highly rated for its seclusion and proximity to trails and the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at noon.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates six guests.
Groups
Group sites are not available at Deer Park Cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin within an open meadow with nearby trails and river access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-May through late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis cabin is only available via reservation and does not allow walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee is charged for cancellations made before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations for cabins start from midnight 14 calendar days before the check-in date, and the first night's recreation use fee is forfeited. No refunds for cancellations on the check-in day.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Deer Park Cabin offers a mix of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and big game hunting. The nearby North Fork Boise River Trail provides scenic views and challenging hikes, while Horse Heaven Trail connects to other trails ideal for multi-modal use such as horseback riding, biking, and dirt biking. The North Fork Boise River offers rainbow trout fishing after July 1st and serves as a popular spot for big game hunting during its respective seasons. Wildlife enthusiasts can observe deer, elk, moose, bears, eagles, and osprey in the area.
Hiking
The North Fork Boise River Trail starts directly behind the cabin and spans approximately 5 miles. It traverses scenic canyon walls and descends to the river's edge by a rock bluff. Horse Heaven Trail, located about a mile away, connects with Swanholm/Warrior Trails and accommodates multiple recreational uses, including hiking, biking, and dirt biking. Reviews praise the trails' beauty but note erosion issues in certain sections.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the North Fork Boise River, which flows near the cabin. Rainbow trout fishing begins after July 1st. However, user reviews note that fish size is generally small, around 8 inches.Biking
Trails such as Horse Heaven Trail cater to mountain biking and dirt biking, with some sections being particularly challenging for motorcycles. The terrain is mixed and offers varied difficulty levels.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes deer, elk, moose, bears, bald eagles, osprey, and various waterfowl. The surrounding meadow and river are ideal for spotting these species, as noted in authoritative sources and user reviews.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not available at Deer Park Cabin, as it is only operational from mid-May to late September.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not mentioned in the authoritative sources.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in fire rings only unless restrictions are in place. Contact Idaho City Ranger District regarding fire updates.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include occasional bear activity and ticks, particularly during hikes. The water pump may shut off if deemed non-potable.
Weather forecast
61
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 59%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Idaho City Ranger District at (208) 392-6681 for updates and emergency queries.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22, 2025 - September 29, 2025 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingLimited trash collection facilities are provided, including bear-proof trash receptacles. Guests are encouraged to pack out as much trash as possible.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the North Fork Boise River, offering fishing opportunities after July 1.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include the futon's poor condition, cleanliness issues (dog hair, grease smell, bits of garbage), and unauthorized individuals attempting to use the restroom.
HostCabin code is sent via email. For assistance, contact the Idaho City Ranger District.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 129, IDAHO CITY, ID 83631, USA
Driving directionsFrom Idaho City, take State Highway 21 for 18 miles to Crooked River/Little Owl Road #384. Turn right and stay on Road #384 for 13.5 miles to North Fork Boise River Road #327. Turn left on Road #327 and drive upstream for 5 miles to Hunter Creek Road #348. Go straight ahead on Road #348 for 1/4 mile where you will see a meadow in front of you and a lower standard road turning off to the right. This road will lead you to Deer Park Cabin, about 300 yards in.
The unpaved roads are graded and generally in good but somewhat rough condition. They can be traveled in good weather by two-wheel drive passenger cars or trucks.Nearby places
Idaho City (18 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Idaho City is the closest location for groceries, supplies, and fuel (approximately 18 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Deer Park Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight Deer Park Cabin as a quiet, rustic retreat with convenient access to hiking trails and stunning natural surroundings. Positive sentiments revolve around the cabin's unique setup and proximity to recreational activities. However, some concerns regarding cleanliness and water pump availability have been noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the cabin's secluded location, proximity to hiking trails such as North Fork Boise River Trail, and its suitability for families. The propane heater and well-structured amenities are...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include cleanliness problems, such as dog hair, dirt, and grease smells inside the cabin, as well as visitors attempting to use the restroom despite signs indicating it is private....
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing additional cleaning supplies due to cleanliness issues and caution about ticks during hikes. They also advise closing the gate to prevent unauthorized access from ATV...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Guests generally enjoy the cabin during its operational season (mid-May to late September), with high praise for the pleasant weather and outdoor activities. Issues like ticks during summer hikes are...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'This is a great location and the fact that there is an amazing trail right behind it makes it even more special.' - Anca P.
2. 'Great cabin in an amazing location with better than expected...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 at Deer Park Cabin has received reviews praising its secluded setting and proximity to trails. Issues like restroom misuse and cabin cleanliness are noted.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features for guests with disabilities are not specifically mentioned in authoritative sources or reviews.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain leashed at all times. User reviews indicate concerns about pets contributing to cleanliness issues, with dog hair found on furniture.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025