Tucannon Guard Station
4.2817 reviews71 West Main St, Pomeroy, WA, 99347, USA
Tucannon Guard Station
$100.00 - $100.00 / 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
Nightly rate of $100 applies year-round for the cabin. Additional fees may apply for changes and cancellations, including a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations.
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Recreation.govProvider
509-843-1891 MONDAY-FRIDAY 7:30-4:30 CLOSED WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS
About this campground
Step back in time at the Tucannon Guard Station, where a century of forest service history welcomes you home. This enchanting 1909 saltbox-style cabin once sheltered the area's first ranger as he protected these wild lands. Today, thoughtfully preserved historical charm meets modern comfort in this accessible mountain retreat. Picture yourself settling into the warm glow of electric lights after a day of adventure, enjoying the convenience of modern plumbing while surrounded by original woodwork and timeless character. Whether you're gathering the family around for stories, exploring local history, or simply seeking a peaceful escape into nature, this cozy cabin offers an authentic taste of the ranger's life with all the comforts you need.
This campground primarily offers a cabin rental with modern amenities in a historic setting. It is ideal for families and small groups seeking a comfortable, remote experience.
Historical SignificanceWithin these weathered walls lies the story of the American conservation movement. Built in 1909, this cabin first served as headquarters for William Kendell, the pioneering district ranger who helped establish forest management in the Tucannon wilderness. From this modest outpost, early rangers ventured forth on horseback to protect vast tracts of untamed forest, battling fires, tracking wildlife, and laying the foundation for today's conservation practices. The cabin's transformation into a guard station continued this legacy of stewardship. Now, as you cross its threshold, you become part of this continuing story – a temporary guardian of both the historic structure and the wild lands that surround it.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Tucannon Valley, where each season paints a different portrait of mountain beauty. Winter wraps the cabin in a crystalline blanket of snow, creating a wonderland perfect for cozy fireside evenings and frosty morning adventures. As spring arrives, melting snow feeds the valley's streams while wildflowers begin their colorful emergence. Summer brings warm, dry days ideal for hiking and wildlife watching, with cool mountain evenings perfect for stargazing. Fall transforms the surrounding landscape into a tapestry of gold and amber. Year-round, expect mountain weather's delightful unpredictability – from gentle rains that bring out the forest's earthy scents to moderate winds that whisper through the pines.
ElevationPerched at 2,600 feet in the embrace of the Tucannon Valley, the guard station offers the perfect balance of mountain majesty and gentle accessibility. This thoughtfully chosen elevation places you high enough to enjoy crisp mountain air and expansive views, yet remains comfortably below the harsh alpine zone. The gently rolling terrain surrounding the cabin creates natural amphitheaters and peaceful meadows, offering both shelter and stunning vantage points for watching the valley's ever-changing moods.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled against a protective hillside in the heart of the Tucannon Valley, the guard station serves as your gateway to the Blue Mountains' untamed beauty. Ancient pines provide natural shade and shelter, while the rolling landscape invites exploration along gentle ridges and hidden hollows. This is where the wild things are – majestic elk graze in nearby meadows at dawn, deer step delicately through your camp at dusk, and the distinctive call of wild turkeys echoes through the forest. Lucky visitors might spot a magnificent moose emerging from the timber or catch a glimpse of colorful pheasants bursting from the underbrush. The surrounding terrain tells its own geological story through weathered rock formations and winding streams, creating a living museum of natural history right outside your door.
Geological RegionWelcome to the northern Blue Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. Straddling southeastern Washington and northeastern Oregon, this rugged region showcases millions of years of volcanic activity, erosion, and ecological evolution. The rolling hills and deep valleys surrounding the guard station reveal layers of basalt flows and sedimentary deposits, creating a complex tapestry of habitats. This geological diversity supports an remarkable array of plant and animal life, from towering conifers clinging to rocky outcrops to delicate wildflowers carpeting hidden meadows. Here, where tectonic forces meet ecological abundance, every hillside and valley tells a story written in stone and brought to life by the countless species that call these mountains home.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not clearly detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself accommodates families and groups, with enough space for 6 adults and children. User reviews also highlight parking availability for multiple vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a measure of privacy despite being near other campsites. One reviewer stated, "Despite being located near campsites, I felt we had privacy and noise separation from other recreation enthusiasts."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring bedding, sleeping bags, and mattress covers. Recommended for families seeking privacy in a comfortable yet historical setting. Ideal for those seeking proximity to fishing and hiking trails.
Best CampsitesThe single campsite at Tucannon Guard Station includes the cabin itself.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Official check-in at 14:00 PM (2 PM).
Check-out
Official check-out at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Suitable for families or groups up to six adults.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutFeatures a single cabin with surrounding yard space, fire pit, picnic tables, and nearby campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round: January 1st - December 31st.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov for reservations.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; cabin must be reserved online in advance.
Cancellation PolicyChanges allowed before scheduled arrival with a $10 charge for new dates. Late cancellations, less than 14 days for cabins, incur the $10 fee and loss of the first night's fees. No refunds for inclement weather.
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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at the Tucannon Guard Station can enjoy a mix of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and exploring scenic drives. The area is conducive to family-friendly outdoor adventures, with many trails and wilderness spots nearby. "There is excellent (seasonal) fishing in the river and lots of feral fruit nearby to pick in the late summer and early fall," one reviewer noted.
Hiking
Trailheads to wilderness hiking trails are located a few miles south of the cabin, according to authoritative sources. User reviews echo the area's appeal for hiking, describing nearby trails as beautiful and well-documented in cabin maps.Fishing
Fishing is a highlighted activity for campers, with seasonal opportunities in the Tucannon River. "The fishing for the family is so awesome!" noted one reviewer, while another emphasized great weather for fishing during their stay.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with potential sightings of wild turkey, pheasant, deer, elk, and occasional moose. Reviewers frequently mention the abundance of wildlife: "Tons of butterflies exploring the area!"Winter Activities
Winter activities include fishing and hiking during quieter times when the area is less crowded. User reviews highlight the cabin's suitability for a winter getaway, describing it as deserted during colder months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned as available activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire pits and must comply with safety regulations. Burning dead wood and leaves is encouraged.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours listed. Noise complaints have been reported during high-use periods.
Hazards
General hazardsMouse poison (Decon) may be present around the cabin perimeter. Winter access challenges due to snow and gravel roads should be anticipated. Wildlife encounters, including with moose, are possible.
Active alertsNo refunds authorized for weather-related inaccessibility. Guests are required to verify road conditions and access codes ahead of arrival.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Columbia County Road Department in Dayton for winter road condition reports. Specific emergency medical services, hospitals, and police locations are not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (year-round peak pricing).
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal is not provided; visitors are instructed to pack out all garbage. Cleaning supplies, including a broom and mop, are provided for cabin upkeep before departure. One reviewer commented, "Leave the cabin as you would want to find it."
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Tucannon River, offering opportunities for fishing and scenic drives.
Common complaintsSome user reviews cite issues with cleanliness, non-working appliances like stove burners, and refrigerator leaks. Noise from nearby campsites has also been reported.
HostManaged by the Pomeroy Ranger District. Contact available Monday-Friday 7:30-4:30.
Campground Map
71 West Main St, Pomeroy, WA, 99347, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pomeroy, take Highway 12 west for about 4 miles. Turn left on Tatman Mt. Road and continue (road changes to Linville Gulch after a couple of miles) for about 6.5 miles (sharp right turn at top of hill) where pavement ends at Blind Grade. Continue on gravel road (Blind Grade) with hairpin turns to stop sign. Turn left onto Tucannon Road and continue for about 8.5 miles. Guard station is on the right. From Dayton, take Highway 12 east about 11.5 miles, and turn right on Tucannon Road. Continue about 24 miles. The guard station is on the right. This route is best for large RVs and is the safest route in winter, especially for two-wheel-drive vehicles.
Access involves gravel roads with hairpin turns and seasonal challenges, particularly in winter. The route from Dayton is recommended for large RVs and safer for two-wheel-drive vehicles during winter. Winter road conditions should be verified through the Columbia County Road Department.Nearby places
Pomeroy: approximately 13 miles
Dayton: approximately 24 miles
Nearby supplies
Convenience store, gas station, and RV park are located about 9 miles north of the cabin (approximately 15 minutes travel).
Camper Reviews
4.3
17 reviews
Tucannon Guard Station is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the Tucannon Guard Station are generally positive, emphasizing its cozy furnishings, historic charm, and ample amenities. However, minor complaints include appliance malfunctions and issues with neighboring campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the cabin's comfort, historic character, and fully equipped kitchen. "The cabin itself is dated, but very functional and comfortable," remarked one user, while another appreciated...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include malfunctioning appliances (such as leaking refrigerators and faulty stove burners), inadequate cleanliness from previous occupants, and disturbances from noisy neighbors...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users frequently recommend bringing bedding or mattress covers, cleaning supplies, and outdoor gear. "Bring queen/twin fitted sheets from home to put under our sleeping bags to make it feel more like...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is busy and potentially noisy due to surrounding campsites, while winter offers a deserted and peaceful experience for visitors. Several reviews note that fishing opportunities are seasonal...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Absolutely perfect! This cabin was a comfortable piece of heaven." - Esmeralda Botello
2. "My family and I make this a yearly vacation." - Nicole S.
3. "This cabin is unique and full of...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention that the refrigerator in the cabin leaked and soaked food during a stay, and the stove had two burners that were not functioning. Another user highlighted minor garbage...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility-specific reviews are absent in the provided materials.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are limited to one dog per reservation. "The large yard with fire ring and two picnic tables is perfect for kids and dogs," noted a user.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025