Govt Mineral Springs Guard Sta
4.0339 reviews2455 HWY 141, TROUT LAKE, WA 98650
Govt Mineral Springs Guard Sta
$100.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$100.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
$100 per night for cabin rental during peak season.
About this campground
Step back in time at the Government Mineral Springs Guard Station, where a historic cabin awaits beneath towering old-growth conifers that have stood sentinel for centuries. This hidden gem in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest offers an authentic wilderness retreat, with the pristine Trapper Creek Wilderness as your backyard. Here, the modern world fades away as you immerse yourself in the tranquil rhythms of the ancient forest.
This campground features a historic guard station cabin for lodging, offering a unique primitive camping experience. Tent or RV camping accommodations are not specified.
Historical SignificanceThis storied site once drew visitors from far and wide to its therapeutic mineral springs during the early 1900s, when elegant spas promised healing waters and mountain air. The legacy continued in 1937 when the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed the area, leaving behind the rustic architecture that still charms visitors today. Now preserved as a guard station, this historic retreat connects modern adventurers to the rich heritage of American conservation and outdoor recreation.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms this mountain sanctuary into a different wonderland. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a peaceful realm accessible only by snowshoe or snowmobile—perfect for those seeking true solitude. As spring awakens the forest, wildflowers emerge and trails become accessible once more. Summer brings warm, golden days ideal for exploring cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear streams, while autumn paints the huckleberry fields in brilliant reds and oranges.
ElevationNestled in the mountain forests of the Pacific Northwest, the guard station sits at an elevation that provides cool mountain air and stunning vistas of the surrounding wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's grandeur unfolds in every direction from your cabin doorstep. Ancient Douglas firs and western red cedars create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while crystal-clear streams tumble down moss-covered rocks toward hidden waterfalls. In late summer, hillsides burst with ripe huckleberries, drawing both human foragers and the area's abundant wildlife. Keep watch for black-tailed deer grazing in meadows, majestic Roosevelt elk moving through the forest shadows, and the occasional glimpse of black bears, cougars, or bobcats. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the symphony of songbirds, woodpeckers, and raptors that call these woods home.
Geological RegionThe guard station rests within the volcanic landscape of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, where ancient lava flows and glacial activity have sculpted a dramatic terrain of steep ridges and deep valleys. The nearby Trapper Creek Wilderness showcases the raw beauty of the Cascade Range, with its old-growth forests clinging to precipitous slopes, streams carving through volcanic rock, and meadows blooming where fire and time have opened the canopy. This is a landscape shaped by fire and ice, where every trail reveals the powerful forces that created the Pacific Northwest's iconic scenery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess is challenging in winter as the cabin requires a half-mile trek using skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles. Snow ramps or stairs may need to be reinforced due to icy conditions.
Sites SizeThe cabin provides spacious accommodations with a large kitchen and dining area. Individual campsites size information is not provided.
Sites PrivacyReviews mention that the cabin is secluded, providing good privacy; however, some note nearby houses visible from the campground.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose winter stays for snow activities and summer stays for easy vehicle access and hiking. Bring additional lighting and water for convenience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Any time after arrival
- no specific hour stated.
Check-out
- By departure date
- no specific hour stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum 7 consecutive nights allowed per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 9 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with accompanying vault toilet and surrounding natural features.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; accessible by vehicle from April 15 to November 1, and only by trekking in winter due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online, app, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability mentioned; advance reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations may be canceled up to 14 calendar days before arrival for cabins with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee after this period. No refunds for cancellations on the day of check-in.
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
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests can engage in varied activities including hiking, fishing, biking, hunting, skiing, snowshoeing, and mushroom and huckleberry picking. The cabin's location near Trapper Creek Wilderness adds unique natural experiences.
Hiking
Trails like Falls Creek Falls (3.5 miles round-trip) offer family-friendly hiking with views of waterfalls and rock formations. Trapper Creek Wilderness has diverse trails for varying skill levels.Fishing
Spring chinook fishing is available on the Wind River, and lake fishing for brown and brook trout can be done at Soda Peaks Lake.Biking
The area around the cabin is suitable for casual biking, with user reviews noting its kid-friendly biking conditions.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen includes black tail deer, Roosevelt elk, black bear, and occasionally cougars, bobcats, and pine martens. Bird species such as spotted owls and goshawks are present.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing, snowshoeing, and hiking. The cabin is accessible only via a half-mile trek during winter.Water Sports
No motorized water sports are mentioned; limited fishing is available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Propane fireplace available; wood-burning not allowed.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsWinter hazards include icy pathways and snow-covered roads. Wildlife such as bears and cougars may be present. Propane smell inside cabin may bother sensitive individuals.
Active alertsFridge is currently broken. Reports of rodent activity and cleanliness issues. Winter access challenges due to snow conditions.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services include Carson National Fish Hatchery and Trout Lake Ranger District.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and recyclables as no trash facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresCreek within 300 feet; Falls Creek Falls trail and Soda Peaks Lake a short drive away.
Common complaintsSeveral reviewers noted issues with mice, cleanliness, and broken furniture. Complaints about propane smell and lack of working heater in dining room. Some guests felt the cabin needed maintenance and deep cleaning.
HostCaretaker presence not mentioned; guests must contact Trout Lake Ranger District for assistance.
Campground Map
2455 HWY 141, TROUT LAKE, WA 98650
Driving directionsFrom Portland take Interstate 84 east, take Cascade Locks Exit 44 and cross the Bridge of the Gods (toll bridge) to Highway 14 in Washington State. Turn east (right) on Highway 14 and drive 5 miles to the Carson junction with the Wind River Highway. Follow the Wind River Highway through Carson and northwest approximately 14 miles to the Carson National Fish Hatchery. Continue northwest for 1 mile on Forest Road 3065 to the entrance for Government Mineral Springs recreation site.
Accessible from April 15 to November 1 by vehicle. Winter access requires a half-mile trek by skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles from the parking area due to snow-covered roads. Sno-Park permits required from December 1 through April 1.Nearby places
Carson (15 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Cascade Locks (20 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Portland (approximately 60 miles, 1.5 hours).
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries and camping essentials available in Carson, approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
39 reviews
Govt Mineral Springs Guard Sta is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's historic charm but also raise significant concerns about cleanliness, mice infestations, and maintenance issues. While some users had enjoyable stays, others reported leaving early due to these problems.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praise the cabin's peaceful setting, nearby hiking trails, and unique historic features, such as the propane fireplace and rustic ambiance.
Based on 39 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include mice infestations, cleanliness issues, broken futon frames, inadequate lighting, and the broken refrigerator. Mice droppings were reported on tables, counters, and floors.
Based on 39 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing water, matches, garbage bags, lanterns, cleaning supplies, and sturdy shoes for icy conditions in winter. Reviews also highlight the importance of checking weather...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews emphasize the challenging half-mile trek and the cabin's cozy warmth despite its dim lighting. Summer reviews highlight the proximity to wilderness trails and berry-picking...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. “The futons downstairs were so thick with dust that we couldn't breathe while trying to sleep.”
2. “Such a cozy, accommodating cabin. Enjoyed my stay thoroughly!”
3. “Bring water! Big sunny...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite details are not provided in the authoritative sources or reviews.
Based on 39 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews mention icy conditions requiring snow ramps or reinforced stairs. Winter access is challenging and requires snowshoes or skis.
Based on 39 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited at this facility.
Based on 39 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025