Mammoth Cabin
540 N. Main, Ephraim, UT 84627, USA
Mammoth Cabin
$50.00 - $50.00 / 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
The nightly fee for either the Mammoth Cabin or Lake Cabin is $50. Reservation fees may apply, and discounts for Interagency Pass holders are not mentioned for cabins. Additional service or cancellation fees apply for modifications.
About this campground
Step back in time at Mammoth Cabin and Lake Cabin, where 1930s ranger stations have been transformed into rustic mountain retreats perched at 8,600 feet. These historic dwellings once sheltered forest rangers and fire crews who watched over the wilderness, and today they offer visitors the same sweeping mountain vistas and pristine solitude. From your cabin porch, watch eagles soar overhead while deer graze in nearby meadows. Though Forest Service personnel still use the adjacent administrative grounds, you'll feel worlds away from civilization in this high-altitude sanctuary where the air is crisp, the stars are brilliant, and the mountain silence is broken only by wind through the aspens.
The Mammoth Cabin facility offers cabin accommodations suitable for small groups or families. Travel trailers and RVs are not permitted. Nearby campgrounds provide additional options for tent and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered cabins carry stories from the 1930s, when Forest Service rangers called them home while protecting vast wilderness areas. Built during an era of expanding conservation efforts, they served as vital outposts for fire crews and forest guardians who spent months in these remote quarters. Today's visitors can explore the region's deeper past at the nearby Fairview Museum, where a magnificent replica of a locally-discovered Columbian Mammoth stands alongside fascinating exhibits chronicling the lives of native peoples who first called these mountains home and the determined settlers who followed in their footsteps.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect mountain weather to this high-altitude retreat, with warm days ideal for hiking and exploring, followed by refreshingly cool evenings that call for cozy sweaters and campfire gatherings. Even in July, the crisp mountain air turns delightfully chilly after sunset, creating perfect conditions for stargazing from your cabin porch. At 8,600 feet, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though visitors should prepare for true alpine conditions with significant snowfall and bracing temperatures that reflect the cabin's lofty perch among the peaks.
ElevationAt 8,600 feet above sea level, these cabins offer a true high-altitude experience where the air is noticeably thinner and refreshingly pure. This elevated perch provides natural air conditioning during summer months and panoramic views that stretch for miles across valleys and ridgelines. The altitude creates a unique microclimate where wildflowers bloom later, autumn arrives earlier, and every breath of mountain air feels crisp and invigorating.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering spruce and fir create a protective canopy around the cabins, their evergreen boughs mingling with shimmering aspen groves that turn gold each autumn. This mature forest serves as a living theater where nature's drama unfolds daily - watch elk emerge from timber at dawn, spot badgers foraging in twilight shadows, and marvel at eagles and hawks riding thermal currents above the treeline. From your cabin's porch, the landscape reveals itself in layers: dense forest gives way to open meadows, then sweeping views of sagebrush valleys bordered by timbered ridgelines that stretch to the horizon.
Geological RegionSituated within the majestic Manti-La Sal National Forest, the cabins occupy a geological wonderland where ancient forces sculpted dramatic ridgelines and carved deep valleys. This high-altitude ecosystem represents a unique transition zone where dense coniferous forests meet expansive sagebrush steppes, creating diverse habitats and stunning visual contrasts. The surrounding peaks and valleys tell a story millions of years in the making, where uplift and erosion have created the perfect backdrop for mountain adventures and quiet contemplation alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specifically described in the sources.
Sites SizeCabins include indoor living spaces and outdoor areas with fire pits and picnic tables.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy may vary depending on whether one or both cabins are rented. "If you don’t rent both cabins you won’t feel the seclusion."
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend renting both cabins for privacy. Mammoth Cabin is better for those seeking shade, while Lake Cabin may appeal to those wanting more sunlight.
Best CampsitesNot specified, but Mammoth Cabin offers more shade while Lake Cabin gets more direct sunlight.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Users report the cabins accommodate up to 4 persons with 2 lower bunks available for sleeping. Upper bunks are unsafe for use.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two cabins, the Mammoth Cabin and Lake Cabin, located on an administrative site. The cabins are not secluded, and visitors may encounter Forest Service personnel or other groups.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from June 17, 2025, through September 30, 2025, with a 6-month rolling booking window.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by contacting the Forest Service offices in Ephraim, Ferron, or Price.
Walk-in AvailabilityIf not reserved, the cabins are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-in reservations can only be made for 2 nights at a time.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled with a $10 fee, but cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee. Same-day cancellations are not refundable. Modifications are subject to a $10 fee if changing dates outside of the original range.
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
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Mammoth Cabin area provides access to a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, non-motorized boating, hiking, ATV riding, and wildlife viewing. Gooseberry Reservoir, 1.5 miles away, offers fishing opportunities and access to non-motorized boating. The Arapeen OHV trail system is nearby, allowing for off-road vehicle recreation.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are somewhat limited around the immediate vicinity of the cabins. One reviewer noted, "Mountain biking/hiking are limited nearby." However, there are some open prairie areas for walking and birdwatching.Fishing
Fishing is available at Gooseberry Reservoir, located 1.5 miles north. Another reviewer added, "Nearby Gooseberry Reservoir has some decent fishing," though it may not be suitable for swimming due to leeches.Biking
Limited mountain biking opportunities exist in the area. "Mountain biking/hiking are limited nearby and this is OHV country," wrote one reviewer.Boating
Only non-motorized boating is allowed in Gooseberry Reservoir, as one source noted.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen include deer, elk, badgers, hawks, and eagles. "You can view wildlife from the front porch of either cabin in the open meadows," according to the official description.Cultural and Educational Programs
A nearby museum in Fairview City offers exhibits on local history and a life-size replica of a Columbian Mammoth.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed in the sources.Water Sports
Limited to non-motorized boating in nearby Gooseberry Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits; visitors are advised to bring their own axe for cutting firewood.
- Quiet hours are Not specified, though noise from ATVs is mentioned as a disturbance.
Hazards
General hazardsVisitors noted wildlife nearby, such as deer and elk. Rodent problems (e.g., mice) have been reported within cabins. Lack of window coverings could contribute to discomfort. Upper bunks are unsafe due to missing safety rails.
Active alertsNone listed in the source material.
Weather forecast
55
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 69%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are in Fairview or Ephraim, including hospitals and police stations. Specific facilities are not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 17, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests must haul away all their garbage, as no dumpsters or nearby disposal facilities are provided. "You must haul away all your garbage (there are no dumpsters within 30 minutes driving)."
Proximity to water featuresApproximately 0.5 miles from Gooseberry Reservoir, offering non-motorized boating and fishing. Other lakes and reservoirs are within a 10-mile radius.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include rodent issues, uncomfortable beds, and lack of seclusion as the cabins are close together. Visitors also disliked the absence of window coverings and reported loud noise from ATVs and nearby roads.
HostNo specific information about hosts is provided, though Forest Service personnel use adjacent grounds.
Campground Map
540 N. Main, Ephraim, UT 84627, USA
Driving directionsFrom Fairview, Utah, proceed 8.5 miles east on Utah Highway 31. Then turn east (left) to Utah Highway 264 for 0.2 miles. Turn left (north) through the paved parking lot to the gravel road, then right on FS Road 0124 downhill. Pass the Gooseberry Campground sign, then take a slight left at the next intersection (FS Road 0124) and proceed through the gate. The Mammoth Cabin is first, and the Lake Cabin is the third building. From US Highway 6, take Utah Highway 96 south through Scofield onto Utah Highway 264 west for 15 miles. Before the junction of Utah Highway 31 and Highway 264, turn north at a large paved parking lot, then proceed to the gravel road, turning right on FS Road 0124 downhill. Follow the directions as above.
Access involves gravel forest service roads after paved segments, which can be downhill and may require caution. Seasonal closures or unexpected conditions are not mentioned, but visitors should confirm accessibility during winter months.Nearby places
Fairview (approximately 8.5 miles, 15-minute drive)
Scofield (approximately 15 miles, 25-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in Fairview or Ephraim, with no specific stores or addresses provided.
Camper Reviews
4.2
18 reviews

Mammoth Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User experiences vary widely, with positive feedback highlighting the scenic views, wildlife, and amenities like hot showers and flush toilets. Common complaints include issues with privacy, uncomfortable beds, and limited hiking opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include "tucked away" cabins with "nice views across meadows," "lots of wildlife," "hot showers," and "decent kitchens." The cabins' proximity to Gooseberry Reservoir and the Arapeen...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints highlight "uncomfortable beds," "barbed wire fences," limited hiking trails, rodent infestations, and a lack of dumpsters. Noise from OHVs and random visitors was also noted.
Based on 18 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own drinking water and firewood. Consider renting both cabins for better privacy. Pack earplugs for OHV noise and outdoor camp chairs for the fire ring. Be prepared to haul away your trash.
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize the need for shade and the presence of leeches in the reservoir. Cooler nights are appreciated, but OHV traffic noise may worsen during peak seasons.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The hot showers were fantastic - don’t forget your own towels, soap, etc." "The view is amazing." "This is a great place to relax and get away from everything."
Based on 18 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Users recommend renting both cabins for better privacy. Some reviews suggest the Lake Cabin has less shade, while Mammoth Cabin is closer to open meadows and wildlife.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews regarding accessibility were provided.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not permitted in the cabins, and no reviews discuss outdoor pet-specific experiences.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025