Stump Creek Guard Station
01 review322 N. 4th St., Montpelier, ID, 83254, USA
Quick Facts
6,500 ftPrice
$60/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
6,500 ftPrice
$60/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Stump Creek Guard Station
$60.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for the cabin is $60. Additional costs may include an $8 online reservation fee or $9 via contact center. Discounts may apply for...
Show more
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider208-847-0375
What Campers Say
N/A
Limited Reviews
Based on 1 reviews
Most mentioned
location
"The guard station receives generally positive feedback for its historical significance and proximity to towns for supplies. "The parking area was muddy but access is very good and it's close to towns if you need supplies.""
Fees & Passes at Stump Creek Guard Station
$60/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Cancellation: Cancellations can be made anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations...
Prices verified November 24, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Montpelier Ranger District, Caribou-Targhee National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Stump Creek Guard Station
Experience the full drama of mountain seasons at Stump Creek. Summer days are perfectly temperate, with refreshing mornings around 55°F warming to pleasant afternoons near 81°F—ideal for hiking and exploring. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though reaching the cabin requires careful preparation and winter driving skills as temperatures plummet. Spring brings wildflower blooms amid unpredictable weather, while autumn paints the forest in golden hues accompanied by crisp air and changing conditions.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025 (Peak Pricing). Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round; cabin reservations can be made on a rolling basis up to six months in advance.
About Stump Creek Guard Station
Step back in time at Stump Creek Guard Station, where pioneer history meets wilderness adventure. This lovingly preserved historic cabin stands sentinel along the legendary Lander Cutoff of the Oregon Trail, offering modern explorers a rare chance to experience both frontier heritage and pristine mountain solitude. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, outdoor adventures, or a glimpse into America's westward expansion, this unique destination delivers an unforgettable blend of past and present.
The Stump Creek Guard Station offers a rustic cabin experience with minimal facilities. "Guests will need to bring much of their own supplies and gear to ensure a comfortable stay."
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of pioneers at this remarkable crossroads of American history. The Lander Cutoff, established as a shorter route to the goldfields and western territories, still bears the deep wagon ruts carved by thousands of hopeful settlers more than 150 years ago. These weathered grooves in the earth serve as powerful reminders of the courage, determination, and dreams that shaped the American West. The guard station itself represents another chapter in the story, standing as a testament to early forest service stewardship.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full drama of mountain seasons at Stump Creek. Summer days are perfectly temperate, with refreshing mornings around 55°F warming to pleasant afternoons near 81°F—ideal for hiking and exploring. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, though reaching the cabin requires careful preparation and winter driving skills as temperatures plummet. Spring brings wildflower blooms amid unpredictable weather, while autumn paints the forest in golden hues accompanied by crisp air and changing conditions.
ElevationPerched at 6,500 feet in the heart of the mountains, the cabin offers a true high-country experience. This elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly cool summer days perfect for outdoor activities, while winter brings deep snows that transform the landscape into a pristine wilderness playground. The thin mountain air and elevated position provide stunning vistas and a genuine sense of being above it all.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape where mountain majesty meets intimate natural beauty. The cabin rests in a picturesque valley where aromatic sagebrush meadows give way to stands of mixed-growth pine forest, all threaded together by the gentle curves of Stump Creek. Lush willow thickets line the water's edge, creating perfect wildlife corridors for the area's impressive residents—black bears fish for trout, wolves patrol ancient territories, majestic elk graze in twilight meadows, and elusive mountain lions rule the ridgelines. This diverse ecosystem offers endless opportunities for wildlife watching and nature photography.
Geological RegionNestled within the stunning Caribou-Targhee National Forest, Stump Creek Guard Station occupies a serene mountain valley that showcases the region's diverse ecology. The landscape tells a story written in sagebrush-covered slopes, resilient mixed-growth pine forests, and the life-giving waters of Stump Creek. This unique geological setting creates a natural amphitheater of beauty, where volcanic origins meet glacial carving to form the perfect backdrop for your mountain getaway.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityDuring winter, accessibility is challenging as visitors may need to snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile over a mile to reach the cabin.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 15 people, with one sleeping room furnished with bunk beds.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in an open, grassy area surrounded by sagebrush and mixed pine growth, providing limited natural privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests are advised to bring sleeping pads, drinking water, and all necessary supplies, including flashlights and a first aid kit. Visiting in summer provides easier access.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin can accommodate up to 15 guests.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned, but the cabin accommodates up to 15 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe site consists of a single cabin located in an open grassy area surrounded by sagebrush.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; cabin reservations can be made on a rolling basis up to six months in advance.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through Recreation.gov, either online, via the app, or by phone at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityInformation about walk-up availability is not explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) and no-shows will forfeit the first night's fee in addition to the cancellation fee. Changes to reservation dates may incur a $10 change 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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Stump Creek Guard Station offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. "Hikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers have access to the Stump Creek/Lander Trail, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places."
Hiking
The Stump Creek/Lander Trail offers historical significance as a segment of the Oregon Trail, with wagon ruts still visible. Hiking options include trails suitable for various activities like horseback riding and mountain biking.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in Stump Creek, although specific details about fish species or fishing quality are not provided in the source materials.Biking
Trails near the Stump Creek Guard Station support mountain biking, including access to the Stump Creek/Lander Trail.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears, wolves, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, grizzly bears, mountain lions, and pronghorn. "Wildlife in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest includes black bear, wolf, elk, moose...and pronghorn."Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing on the Stump Creek/Lander Trail. Snowmobiling is also possible during heavy snowfall.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as available activities at this location.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent the spread of tree-killing pests. Details on campfire policies are not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsRisks include exposure to hantavirus in remote cabins, encounters with wildlife such as grizzly bears and mountain lions, and snow-related accessibility issues in winter.
Weather at Stump Creek Guard Station
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 74%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 0.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services located in Montpelier, Idaho, approximately 50 miles away. Call the Montpelier Ranger District Office for specific concerns at (208) 847-0375.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025 (Peak Pricing)
Trash and recyclingThis is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility, and guests must bring garbage bags to carry out their trash. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresStump Creek runs adjacent to the cabin, supporting fishing and adding to the natural appeal.
Common complaintsOne user review by David F noted the parking area was muddy during their visit.
HostNo information about on-site hosts is available.
Campground Map
322 N. 4th St., Montpelier, ID, 83254, USA
Driving directionsFrom Afton, Wyoming, travel 4 miles north on Highway 89 to the town of Grover. At Grover, turn west and travel 3 miles to Auburn. Then go south 1/2 mile to Road 110, then west 4 miles to Road 109 for 2 miles. This will put you at the guard station. Maps are available upon request at the district office.
The guard station is accessible by car during warmer months. In winter, guests may need to ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile for over a mile to reach the cabin due to snow conditions. Roads are unpaved for the last stretch.Nearby places
Afton, Wyoming - approximately 4 miles
Auburn, Wyoming - approximately 7 miles.
Nearby supplies
Groceries and basic supplies can be found in Auburn, Wyoming, approximately 7 miles away. For more extensive needs, Afton, Wyoming, located 4 miles away, is another option.
Reviews from booking and map sources
0.0
1 reviews
Stump Creek Guard Station has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The guard station receives generally positive feedback for its historical significance and proximity to towns for supplies. "The parking area was muddy but access is very good and it's close to towns if you need supplies."
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors appreciate the historical significance of the location, its proximity to nearby towns for supplies, and the diverse outdoor recreation options.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Challenges related to accessibility during winter conditions are noted. "Guests should be prepared to shovel snow in the winter to access the cabin and outhouse."
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
"Please bring your own sleeping pads." Guests are advised to bring emergency supplies, including flashlights and a first-aid kit.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter accessibility issues like snow conditions are recurrent themes in reviews, but positive feedback highlights the cozy cabin experience and winter sports.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The parking area was muddy but access is very good and it's close to towns if you need supplies." (Review by David F). "Guests must provide their own drinking water and garbage bags."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
User review for site 001 mentions challenges with muddy parking but praises accessibility and proximity to towns.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility challenges during winter are noted, requiring guests to snowmobile, snowshoe, or ski over a mile to reach the cabin. No specific reviews from users with disabilities are mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not addressed in the user reviews or authoritative content.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement