Musick Guard Station
3.9810 reviews78405 Cedar Park Rd
Musick Guard Station
$8.00 - $9.00 / 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
Reservation fees range from $8 when booked online to $9 via the contact center. Additional fees may apply for modifications or cancellations.
About this campground
Step back in time at Musick Guard Station, where the echoes of Forest Service history resonate through timber walls built by determined Civilian Conservation Corps workers in 1934. This National Register of Historic Places gem sits perched on a narrow ridge, offering visitors the rare opportunity to sleep where generations of fire lookouts once kept vigilant watch over the vast Umpqua wilderness. More than just a cabin rental, it's your gateway to experiencing the rugged beauty and rich mining heritage of Oregon's Cascade Mountains.
Musick Guard Station offers unique camping accommodations, centered around its historic cabin. Tent camping is also possible, with designated areas for pitching tents.
Historical SignificanceThe guard station stands as a testament to the Bohemia Mining District's golden era, when prospectors pulled fortunes from these mountains in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Named after the legendary Musick Mine—one of the district's crown jewels—this cabin has witnessed the transformation from mining boom to conservation landmark. Today's visitors can explore ghostly remnants of abandoned mine sites, then venture to nearby Crater Lake National Park to complete their journey through Oregon's remarkable past.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Musick Guard Station into a snow-laden wonderland, where temperatures hover between a crisp 23°F at night and 37°F during the day. The cabin becomes a cozy refuge as snow blankets the surrounding peaks and forests. Come summer, the mountain meadows burst into life with vibrant wildflower displays from late June through early August, while clear mountain air reveals stunning vistas stretching for miles. The moderate summer temperatures create perfect conditions for hiking and exploring the historic mining sites scattered throughout the area.
ElevationAt nearly 6,000 feet elevation, Musick Guard Station crowns its mountain ridge with commanding 360-degree views that will take your breath away—literally and figuratively. The 5,933-foot perch rewards those who make the journey with panoramic vistas that stretch across multiple mountain ranges, though the thin air and steep approach roads remind visitors they've truly reached the heights of adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient forests of Douglas fir, spruce, and mountain hemlock cloak the steep slopes surrounding the guard station, creating a verdant sanctuary for Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, and elusive black bears. Keep your eyes peeled for cougars padding silently through the understory, while overhead, raptors circle on mountain thermals. The crown jewel of the area is nearby Fairview Peak, where on crystal-clear days, the entire sweep of the Cascade Range unfolds before you—from the iconic silhouette of Mt. Hood in the north to the distinctive cone of Mount McLoughlin anchoring the southern horizon.
Geological RegionPerched dramatically atop a knife-edge ridge in the heart of Umpqua National Forest, Musick Guard Station occupies a throne between the commanding summits of Fairview Peak and Grouse Mountain. This spectacular setting places you amid a landscape of 6,000-foot peaks draped in primeval forests of fir, spruce, and hemlock—the very mountains that once yielded gold fortunes in the historic Bohemia Mining District. The rugged topography tells a story written in ancient volcanic rock and carved by centuries of wind, rain, and snow into the dramatic ridgelines and deep valleys that define this corner of the Oregon Cascades.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not clearly provided.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a remote, gated area, offering privacy. User reviews note occasional visitors and ATV noise.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring a laminated sign to indicate the cabin is reserved, as users mention frequent visitors. 4x4 vehicles are strongly recommended due to road conditions.
Best Campsites'Campsite C01' has been mentioned in user reviews, but the cabin is the primary feature.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of the guard station is ten people.
Groups
Group site details are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin setup with no designated camping loops.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, the contact center, or mobile apps.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is mentioned; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee, and additional penalties apply for late cancellations. Individual campsite cancellations after midnight the day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night’s fee. For cabins, cancellations less than 14 days prior incur a $10 fee plus the first night’s fee.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can engage in various activities, including hiking on nearby trails, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, and exploring historical sites such as Musick Mine and Fairview Peak. Seasonal wildflowers add to the appeal for hikers.
Hiking
The Bohemia Mountain Trail is a nearby attraction offering a steep grade to the summit and dramatic views of the Cascade mountains. Wildflower viewing is best from late June through early August.Biking
Biking in the surrounding areas is possible but not detailed in official sources.Wildlife viewing
Large mammals like elk, deer, black bears, and cougars, as well as smaller animals such as squirrels and raccoons, can be commonly observed in the area.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specified.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not highlighted.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are generally discouraged; guests should bring a camping stove.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours information provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears, cougars, steep slopes, cold temperatures, and unreliable cell phone coverage.
Active alertsNo current warnings or alerts provided.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.7 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
Closest emergency services are in Cottage Grove, approximately 39 miles away, including hospitals and police stations. Travelers are advised to plan accordingly due to unreliable cell phone coverage.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all garbage and food. Trash and recycling services are not available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby water features are specified.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention broken windows, vandalism, and unmaintained access roads. Several reviewers noted issues with the beds being unsafe or uncomfortable, requiring sleeping mats.
HostNo information on host availability or services is provided.
Campground Map
78405 Cedar Park Rd
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5 in Oregon take the Cottage Grove exit 174. Take Row River Road 2400 east for 19 miles to Brice Creek Road #2470. Keep right and continue on Brice Creek Road for 12 miles to Noonday Road 2212. Turn right and travel for 8.8 miles to Champion Saddle. Keep to your left, traveling on Sharps Creek Road 2460, for 0.4-mile to Road 2460-480 on the right. There is a gate at this junction and Musick Guard Station is 100 yards up this road. Parking is limited and visitors are discouraged from parking on Road 2460. Alternative access routes may be available; contact the Cottage Grove Ranger District during regular office hours for more information and current road conditions.
The access roads are challenging, with steep grades and unpaved sections. User reviews suggest that some routes are unmaintained, resembling riverbeds with large rocks and eroded edges, making them dangerous for sedans and non-4x4 vehicles. Cell phone coverage is unreliable, and one reviewer stated, 'The directions we received on the reservation were unclear.' Another mentioned using NF-22 and Champion Creek Rd but cautioned against driving unless experienced in off-road conditions.Nearby places
Cottage Grove (approximately 39 miles, ~1 hour travel time)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, fuel, and camping essentials can be found in Cottage Grove, approximately 39 miles away. Visitors should bring all essentials, including drinking water, as none are available at the campsite.
Camper Reviews
4.0
10 reviews
Musick Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Musick Guard Station receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.93 overall. Positive feedback highlights its historical features, privacy, and picturesque location, while negative reviews point to maintenance issues and challenging accessibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the historical significance of the cabin, its cozy and private setting, and stunning views from nearby attractions. Users appreciate the wood stove’s efficiency in heating...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include broken windows, rodent infestations, vandalism, and rickety beds. Several users found the directions misleading and roads to the station difficult to navigate.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing essential supplies such as drinking water, lanterns, sleeping pads, and cooking equipment. Some suggest calling the ranger station for road conditions and directions due to...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the beauty of wildflowers and hiking opportunities, while winter reviews focus on the cabin’s warmth and privacy but caution about challenging access routes and weather...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"What a great cabin!" - Christopher Anderson. "Relaxing area, gated and private." - Dotty Scott. "Awful. Most windows broken out. Rodent infested." - Joseph E. "Beautiful. Cozy cabin and a great area...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include mentions of vandalism and maintenance issues at campsite C01. Positive experiences focus on its scenic views and proximity to historical sites.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility concerns are not explicitly reviewed.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome; however, users are reminded to clean up after them.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025