Alder Guard Station

Star4.58
15 reviews
FSR 610, South Fork, CO 81154

Quick Facts

8,406 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 16, 2025 to...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Opens Divide Ranger District, Rio Grande National Forest site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Alder Guard Station
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee is $50 per night for the cabin. Reservation service fees apply: $8 if made online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in person. Discounts...
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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

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Provider
(719) 657-3321
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What Campers Say

4.58

Top-Rated

Based on 15 reviews

Most mentioned

water

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Alder Guard Station are mixed. Several guests praise the cabin for its scenic location, comfort, and amenities, while others note issues with cleanliness and maintenance."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

FSR 610, South Fork, CO 81154

Alder Guard Station

FSR 610, South Fork, CO 81154

Driving directionsFrom South Fork, Colorado: Travel approximately 0.5 miles on Highway 149 towards Creede. After crossing the Rio Grande River bridge, turn east (right) on County Road 15 (North River Road) and go approximately 1 mile to Forest Road 610. Turn north (left) on Forest Road 610 and go 2 miles. Alder Guard Station is on the left less than 50 yards from Forest Road 610.
The campground is accessed via paved roads on Highway 149 followed by unpaved Forest Road 610. Seasonal road conditions or closures are not indicated.
Nearby places
South Fork (2 miles away)
Nearby supplies
South Fork, CO (2 miles away)

Best Time to Camp at Alder Guard Station

The seasons paint dramatically different portraits at Alder Guard Station. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with occasional snowfall dusting the historic cabin and wind gusts up to 22 mph whispering through the conifers. During these colder months, expect crisp, clear days with about 75% sunshine breaking through the clouds. The true magic unfolds from late spring through early fall, when wildflowers carpet the meadows, aspens shimmer in gentle breezes, and perfect temperatures invite endless outdoor adventures.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open and peak season (May 16–Sep 30); summer highlights outdoor activities and scenery.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall reviews mention foliage and hunting, but site closes after Sep 30 (early fall only).

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 16 so late spring access limited; scenery improves as season progresses.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Cabin is closed in winter; winter stays not supported by availability.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 16, 2025 to September 30, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 16, 2025 to September 30, 2025.
  • Current Alerts: Occasional overflow issues with the water well could make water unsafe; visitors are advised to bring spare drinking water.

About Alder Guard Station

Step back in time at Alder Guard Station, where a century of forest service history meets modern comfort. This enchanting two-story cabin, nestled just 2 miles north of South Fork, Colorado, stands as a testament to the early days of forest conservation. Built in 1910 when rangers patrolled vast wilderness territories on horseback, this lovingly preserved station has transformed from a working ranger's quarters into an extraordinary mountain retreat that seamlessly blends rustic charm with contemporary conveniences.
The Alder Guard Station is a historic cabin that serves as the main accommodation. It is designed for small groups or families looking for a comfortable getaway with access to a variety of outdoor activities.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in details not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out details not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights in a rolling 30-day period.

Amenities available

Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to the Alder Guard Station can enjoy a variety of recreational activities. The Alder Bench trailhead is located nearby and offers opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and off-road single-track riding. The area is also popular for elk and deer hunting in the fall and fishing for trout in Alder Creek. Wildlife viewing is another highlight, with the cabin situated amidst a diverse ecosystem.
HikingThe Alder Bench trailhead is located near the cabin and features a 6.5-mile trail that is open to hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. The trail can be rocky and steep in some places and is a popular route for hunting elk and deer in the fall.
FishingAnglers can fish in Alder Creek, which offers a scenic backdrop and opportunities to catch a variety of trout.
BikingThe Alder Bench trailhead allows for mountain biking on its 6.5-mile trail, though the terrain is described as rocky and steep in some areas.
Wildlife viewingSurrounded by the diverse ecosystems of the Rio Grande National Forest, the cabin offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Species include elk and deer, especially during the fall hunting season.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity in the area requires food storage precautions. Occasional overflow of the water well may result in unsafe drinking water.
Active AlertsOccasional overflow issues with the water well could make water unsafe; visitors are advised to bring spare drinking water.

Weather at Alder Guard Station

Reviews

4.6
15 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Alder Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Alder Guard Station are mixed. Several guests praise the cabin for its scenic location, comfort, and amenities, while others note issues with cleanliness and maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests highlighted the picturesque setting, amenities such as running hot and cold water, a flushing toilet, and kitchen appliances. The presence of a fireplace, games, and outdoor areas for grilling...
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Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include cleanliness issues, such as mouse droppings on beds and kitchen surfaces, and general wear and tear inside the cabin. Some guests also reported disruptive ATV traffic and...
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Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing extra cleaning supplies to address cleanliness concerns upon arrival. Bringing firewood, spare drinking water, and all necessary personal items is also advised.
Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews generally focus on the cozy aspects of the cabin but note the need for proper heating supplies. Fall reviews often mention hunting and beautiful foliage. Summer reviews highlight...
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Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Beautiful area! We visited Brewery Creek cabin in the past, but this is even better. There is running water (hot and cold), a flushing toilet, refrigerator, and stove." - Nichole Hockett. "Place...
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Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews for the Alder Guard Station often mention its scenic location and mix of amenities. However, issues with cleanliness and maintenance are occasionally raised.
Based on 15 reviews

Accessibility Features

One user expressed the need for more ADA-compliant features in the bathroom, such as steps for easier access.
Based on 15 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed outside the cabin, but guests must clean up after them. One review noted the presence of bears in the area, suggesting caution with food storage.
Based on 15 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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