Johnson Creek Guard Station

4.78

26 reviews

PO Box 696, Cascade, ID, 83611, USA

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Idaho#3 Hiking Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

5,141 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

ElectricShowersWiFi

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

5,141 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

ElectricShowersWiFi

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Johnson Creek Guard Station

$50.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The cabin reservation fee is $50 per night during peak season. This fee may not include taxes or incremental charges.

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

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-382-7400

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.78

Top-Rated

Based on 26 reviews

21 Google reviews

Most mentioned

water

"User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the cabin's amenities, scenic location, and proximity to trailheads and the river. Common complaints include early morning air traffic, wildlife disturbances such as chipmunks and bats, and the cramped bathroom layout."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO Box 696, Cascade, ID, 83611, USA

Johnson Creek Guard Station

PO Box 696, Cascade, ID, 83611, USA

Driving directionsFrom Cascade, ID, head north on ID-55/Main Street toward McCall, ID. Turn right/east on FH-22/Warm Lake Road. Stay on this road for about 35 miles. Turn left/north on Road 413/Johnson Creek Road. Stay on this road for about 22 miles. The cabin sits on the right/east side of the road. Look for the Forest Service sign. This is good unpaved road, but there are a few narrow and steep sections with few pull-outs, and there may be some washboard sections. Use low gears. Some sections of the road are steep. Note Warm Lake Summit can be closed due to snow. If so, take FS 474 north to FH48, head east and then south on Johnson Creek Road. For additional information, the Cascade District Office is located in Cascade on the north end of town off Highway 55 on the right side of the road. Office hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed on federal holidays.

The campground is accessible by dirt and gravel roads. While most vehicles can access the site, trailers are not recommended. Some sections of the road are narrow, steep, and may have washboard surfaces. Warm Lake Summit is seasonally closed due to snow.

Nearby places

Cascade (approx. 57 miles, 1.5 hours)

Yellow Pine (few miles north, exact distance not specified)

Nearby supplies

Limited supplies are available in the nearby community of Yellow Pine. The store sells animal pelts and a small selection of essentials. Groceries and camping supplies may be found in Cascade, ID, approximately 57 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Johnson Creek Guard Station

Summer transforms this mountain hideaway into an outdoor paradise, with June through September bringing brilliant sunshine and temperatures that dance between comfortable 84°F afternoons and crisp 55°F evenings perfect for campfire stories. The reliably dry conditions and crystal-clear skies create ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As winter approaches, the cabin becomes more challenging to reach as snow blankets the access roads, turning this retreat into a true backcountry adventure for those properly equipped.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 23% in ID

Open and peak season (June–Sept): warm days, abundant activities and high visitor praise; book early.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Open into late Sept; cooler temps and good wildlife viewing with fewer crowds late season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Season opens May 24; late-spring visits possible with cooler temps and variable access; limited data on spring conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Facility closed outside May 24–Sept 30; winter season not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Early June to late September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations from May 24 through September 30. Peak season includes early June to late September.
Current Alerts: Seasonal road closures due to snow; Warm Lake Summit may be inaccessible during winter.

About Johnson Creek Guard Station

Step back in time at Johnson Creek Guard Station, where a beautifully preserved 1922 forest service cabin seamlessly blends historic charm with modern comfort. This secluded mountain retreat surprises visitors with electricity, indoor plumbing, and a fully equipped kitchen—rare luxuries in such a remote setting. Perfect for families and groups who dream of experiencing the authentic wilderness lifestyle without sacrificing essential conveniences, this historic gem offers the best of both worlds in the heart of the Idaho mountains.

Johnson Creek Guard Station offers a unique cabin rental experience, combining rustic charm with modern amenities. Tent camping, RV sites, or group camping are explicitly not allowed.

Historical SignificanceBuilt in 1922 when forest rangers needed remote outposts to protect America's wilderness, this authentic guard station has witnessed nearly a century of forest service history. Today, it stands as a living museum within the Boise National Forest, its weathered logs telling stories of early conservation efforts. Just down the mountain, the quirky town of Yellow Pine keeps frontier spirit alive with its famous Yellow Pine Music & Harmonica Festival each August, where visitors can experience genuine Idaho mountain culture and toe-tapping entertainment.

Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain hideaway into an outdoor paradise, with June through September bringing brilliant sunshine and temperatures that dance between comfortable 84°F afternoons and crisp 55°F evenings perfect for campfire stories. The reliably dry conditions and crystal-clear skies create ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As winter approaches, the cabin becomes more challenging to reach as snow blankets the access roads, turning this retreat into a true backcountry adventure for those properly equipped.

ElevationPerched high in the mountainous terrain of the Boise National Forest, the guard station offers that perfect alpine setting where the air feels cleaner, the stars shine brighter, and everyday worries seem to disappear with the valley fog below.

Natural Features and SceneryNestled in an enchanting mountain meadow where Johnson Creek babbles through wildflower-dotted grasses, the cabin sits like a storybook cottage amid towering pines. Morning mist often reveals grazing deer in the meadow, while lucky visitors might spot majestic elk at dusk or catch sight of a soaring bald eagle overhead. The surrounding forest harbors black bears and the occasional moose, reminding guests they're sharing this pristine wilderness with its original inhabitants. The creek itself provides a natural soundtrack and excellent opportunities for quiet reflection or adventurous exploration.

Geological RegionJohnson Creek Guard Station occupies a stunning mountain meadow carved by centuries of flowing water, where Johnson Creek winds its way toward its eventual meeting with the legendary South Fork Salmon River. Surrounded by dense pine forests that carpet the ancient mountains, this geological wonderland showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's rugged interior, where volcanic origins and glacial sculpting have created a landscape of dramatic contrasts and hidden valleys.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum 4 nights per visit and per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Unlimited guests allowed within the cabin's capacity.

Groups

Group camping is not available at this site.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle cabin layout with surrounding meadow.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; reservations required.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival for a refund minus fees. $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees are non-refundable. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior for cabins) will also forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee unless adding/removing nights or switching campsites of the same type. No changes can be made on the day of check-in.

AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible by most vehicles, although trailers are not recommended due to challenging road conditions. The cabin itself is equipped with modern amenities, but no specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 8 guests, with enough outdoor space for activities. The interior includes a main bedroom and an upstairs loft.

PrivacyThe cabin provides a private space surrounded by dense pine forests and mountain slopes, offering seclusion and natural beauty.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 001 provides modern amenities including electricity, running water, and indoor plumbing. Families recommend bringing additional bedding and mosquito repellents.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

WiFi

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Johnson Creek Guard Station offers a wide range of recreational activities. From hiking trails leading into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness to fishing opportunities in Johnson Creek and South Fork Salmon River, there is plenty to explore. Berry picking, hunting, and wildlife viewing are seasonal activities, and the nearby Yellow Pine community hosts an annual music festival.

HikingMultiple trailheads into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness are accessible, offering non-motorized trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Reviews praise the scenic beauty and accessibility of these trails.

FishingFishing opportunities are available in Johnson Creek and South Fork Salmon River. A reviewer noted catching trout and salmon at the nearby Ice Hole Campground.

BikingThe trails near the cabin are suitable for mountain biking, providing a mix of terrain and scenic views.

Wildlife viewingWildlife watchers can spot deer, elk, bear, and moose in the area. Bald eagles are frequently seen overhead.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and chipmunks. Mosquitoes and ants are prevalent. The cabin has limited knee space in the bathroom due to proximity to the water heater.

Active AlertsSeasonal road closures due to snow; Warm Lake Summit may be inaccessible during winter.

Fire PolicySmall campfires allowed in designated fire rings; large bonfires prohibited.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available at Cascade District Office in Cascade, ID. This includes the nearest ranger station and likely local healthcare facilities.

Trash & RecyclingGuests are required to pack out their own trash. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are provided.

Water FeaturesNearby Johnson Creek offers fishing opportunities. Ice Hole Campground across the street is recommended for better swimming and fishing access.

Camp HostHosts are praised for their helpfulness and maintenance of the cabin. One review highlights: 'Wonderful camping and camp hosts.'

Weather at Johnson Creek Guard Station

Reviews

4.8

26 reviews

Top-Rated

Johnson Creek Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the cabin's amenities, scenic location, and proximity to trailheads and the river. Common complaints include early morning air traffic, wildlife disturbances such as chipmunks and bats, and the cramped bathroom layout.

Review Summaries

Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

The cabin's amenities, including electricity, running water, and modern bathroom facilities, are frequently praised. Visitors also appreciate the scenic beauty, wildlife, and proximity to...

Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include the cramped toilet setup, air traffic disturbances over the cabin, mosquitoes, wildlife intrusions (chipmunks and bats), and outdated or missing amenities like a coffee machine and...

Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing flashlights, garbage bags, bedding, and towels. Reviewers also advise reading the cabin's logbook for activity suggestions and visiting nearby attractions like Ice Hole...

Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season runs from early June to late September. Reviews suggest booking in advance, as high demand limits availability. Summer stays are punctuated by lively air traffic and wildlife activity.

Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The cabin itself is really pretty but could use some upgrades and a really good cleaning." - Sheila H. "Wonderful experience, well equipped cabin with plenty of amenities." - Marc G. "Great cabin,...

Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 reviews highlight the great amenities, but mention issues with wildlife intrusions like bats and chipmunks. Guests also note the cramped toilet setup.

Based on 26 reviews