Paddy Flat Guard Station
04 reviews102 W. Lake Street, McCall, ID 83638, USA
Paddy Flat 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
Cabin rates are $100 per night, regardless of whether the cabin is electric or non-electric. Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to the beautifully restored Paddy Flat Guard Station, where two historic cabins await in the heart of Payette National Forest's untamed wilderness. This remote central Idaho sanctuary beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of solitude and endless recreation—from morning fishing expeditions and scenic mountain bike rides to afternoon hikes through pristine forests and evening horseback rides under star-filled skies.
The Paddy Flat Guard Station provides cabin accommodations, with two cabins available for rental. It does not support standard tent or RV camping on the property.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Paddy Flat into an outdoor paradise, with comfortable temperatures and clear skies creating ideal conditions for exploration. While winter's heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures close the station to visitors, the warm months offer a perfect window for your mountain escape, with gentle breezes and minimal rain ensuring your adventures remain uninterrupted.
ElevationPerched at 5,250 feet above sea level, Paddy Flat offers the refreshing mountain air and cooler temperatures that make summer camping a delight. Visitors should note that the higher elevation may require a brief adjustment period, particularly for those sensitive to altitude changes, but most find the crisp mountain atmosphere invigorating.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking up in a pristine meadow at 5,250 feet, where morning mist dances across wildflower fields before dissolving into the surrounding cathedral of towering conifers. This enchanting pocket of Payette National Forest serves as your gateway to a wonderland of alpine lakes that mirror the sky, babbling mountain streams teeming with trout, and dramatic peaks that soar to 8,681 feet, creating a photographer's paradise at every turn.
Geological RegionNestled in a sun-dappled meadow embraced by ancient conifer forests, Paddy Flat Guard Station sits within the magnificent expanse of west-central Idaho's Payette National Forest. This 2.2-million-acre wilderness stretches dramatically from the depths of Hells Canyon to the legendary Middle Fork of the Salmon River, offering visitors a chance to experience one of the American West's last great wild places.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe East Cabin includes an access ramp, wheelchair-accessible shower stall, toilet, and sink. The West Cabin has a wheelchair-accessible shower on the first floor. Both cabins are designed with accessibility in mind.
Sites SizeCabins are designed to accommodate up to 4 people, with additional space for two single-family tents at the East Cabin.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels at the Guard Station are not described in the provided materials.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabin East provides accessible features like ramps and wheelchair-accessible restrooms. Ideal for visitors requiring these accommodations.
Best CampsitesCabin East is noted for its accessibility and inclusion of amenities like flush toilets and a kitchen.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Guests must vacate by 12:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin East occupancy is limited to 4 persons. Additionally, up to two single-family tents may be set up outside.
Groups
Group camping is not specified, but the East Cabin allows up to two single-family tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo cabins grouped within a forested meadow. Parking is available adjacent to each cabin.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens July 1st, 2025, and closes September 30th, 2025, for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations managed through Recreation.gov online and app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere is no mention of walk-up/first-come-first-served availability; cabins are reservable only.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 14 days before the arrival date incur a $10 fee. Cancellations made within 14 days for cabins result in forfeiture of the first night's fee and $10 cancellation fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee unless extending/shortening reservation dates.
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
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Paddy Flat Guard Station is an excellent base for a variety of outdoor recreational activities. Its location near numerous trailheads offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and off-highway vehicle trails. The area is also popular for bird and wildlife watching.
Hiking
Multiple trailheads near the Guard Station allow access to alpine lakes, meadows, and peaks as high as 8,681 feet, providing diverse hiking opportunities.Fishing
The area offers fantastic fishing opportunities in abundant streams and numerous alpine lakes within travel distance from the Guard Station.Biking
The Guard Station serves as a starting point for mountain biking adventures on local trails.Wildlife viewing
Guests can enjoy bird and wildlife watching in nearby meadows and forested areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described in the provided materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood gathering permitted locally; no external firewood allowed.
Hazards
General hazardsSnow and freezing conditions are common outside the summer season. Roads may become challenging during heavy precipitation or snowfall.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 61%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.1 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
Emergency services are available in McCall, ID (~9 miles south).
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingCampers are expected to pack out all trash as the station operates on a 'Pack-It-In, Pack-It-Out' policy. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNumerous alpine lakes and streams are located within travel distance, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention the lack of potable water near the cabins. Guests must bring their own kitchen utensils.
HostNo on-site host mentioned; lock code must be obtained by calling the McCall Ranger District.
Campground Map
102 W. Lake Street, McCall, ID 83638, USA
Driving directionsIf you are approaching the cabin from the north (McCall), drive approximately 9 miles south on State Highway 55. Paddy Flat Road will be a left turn (east). This is Forest Road #388. Follow road #388 approximately 5 miles to Paddy Flat Summit. At the summit take Forest Road #389, which is a slight turn to the right. Follow Forest Road #389 approximately 3 miles to the Paddy Flat Guard Station. If you are driving from the south, Paddy Flat Road will be a right turn approximately 3 miles north of the town of Donnelly. Again, this will be Forest Road #388 heading east. Follow #388 to Paddy Flat Summit, veer right onto Forest Road #389 and continue on to the guard station.
The road access includes Forest Roads #388 and #389. These are likely unpaved roads, requiring cautious driving especially during adverse weather conditions. Accessibility may be challenging for low-clearance vehicles.Nearby places
McCall (~9 miles south), Donnelly (~6 miles north).
Nearby supplies
Supplies are available in nearby towns such as McCall (~9 miles south) and Donnelly (~6 miles north), which offer groceries, fuel, and dining options.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Paddy Flat Guard Station has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere of the Paddy Flat Guard Station. Some users appreciate the remote and lush environment, while others note the lack of potable water as a drawback.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the scenic and quiet setting, describing it as peaceful, lush, and surrounded by greenery. The intimate and quiet atmosphere was a highlight for several visitors.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
A notable complaint from users is the lack of potable water facilities on-site.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend preparing adequately by bringing potable water and necessary kitchen utensils. Visitors are also advised to follow the 'Pack-It-In, Pack-It-Out' policy for waste management.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Most reviews do not specify seasons, but the summer months seem to be popular due to better accessibility and the availability of trail activities.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful area! Lush, green forest with an intimate campground." - Heidi Tom. "It was quiet and peaceful." - Mirella G. "Nice, next to the creek, has bathroom, fire ring, tables." - Violeta...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews mention the peaceful atmosphere of the East Cabin and the lush surroundings of the Guard Station. No negative feedback about particular cabins or sites is provided.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features of the cabins are positively noted, particularly the wheelchair-accessible shower in the East Cabin.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and users appreciate this policy. Guests are reminded to maintain control over their pets and clean up after them.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025