How much does camping cost at Warm Springs Guard Station?

Camping fees at Warm Springs Guard Station range from $40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Warm Springs Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Warm Springs Guard Station accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Warm Springs Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Warm Springs Guard Station has 6 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Warm Springs Guard Station?

Warm Springs Guard Station is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Warm Springs Guard Station?

Warm Springs Guard Station does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Warm Springs Guard Station?

Fire policies at Warm Springs Guard Station: Campfires outside the cabin are permitted in metal fire ring only. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Warm Springs Guard Station have?

Warm Springs Guard Station has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Warm Springs Guard Station?

Yes, pets are allowed at Warm Springs Guard Station. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Warm Springs Guard Station?

Warm Springs Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Warm Springs Guard Station?

Popular activities at Warm Springs Guard Station include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Warm Springs Guard Station

4.62

33 reviews

7359 HIGHWAY 21

Top 3% in IDWinter

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Swimming Camping Idaho

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,700 ft

Price

$40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Road is not plowed d...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Boise National Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,700 ft

Price

$40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Road is not plowed d...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Boise National Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Warm Springs Guard Station

$40.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $40.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-259-3361

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Warm Springs Guard Station

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Campground Map

7359 HIGHWAY 21

Warm Springs Guard Station

7359 HIGHWAY 21

Nearby places

Lowman (approximately 18 miles east)

Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 21 northeast 75 miles to Lowman, Idaho. Continue on Highway 21 another 18 miles to milepost 91.2. Turn left on Forest Road 025RC and continue 1.5 miles to cabin when road is open to motorized use. In the winter, park in the plowed parking lot on the left at milepost 91.2 and hike/snowshoe/ski the remaining distance. From Banks, Idaho, turn right off Highway 55 onto Highway 17, drive 40 miles to Lowman. Turn left onto Highway 21 and go approximately 18 miles east to milepost 91.2. Turn left on Forest Road 025RC and continue 1.5 miles to cabin when road is open to motorized use. In the winter, park in the plowed parking lot on the left at milepost 91.2 and hike/snowshoe/ski the remaining distance.

Weather at Warm Springs Guard Station

Current alerts(12)

Click here for more information about Boise National Forest
Don't Move Firewood: Help prevent the spread of tree-killing pests in our national forests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Livestock is allowed from April 16 to December 14 only
No water is available in the cabin; water is available from a hand pump only in summer

Best Time to Camp at Warm Springs Guard Station

Best season: winter. Winter offers the most unique experience at Warm Springs Guard Station: a true backcountry sanctuary surrounded by deep snow, quiet trails and the restored historic cabin with a wood stove. Expect daytime highs around 20–35°F (-7 to 2°C) and nighttime lows commonly below freezing (0–15°F / -18 to -9°C), with reliable snowpack from mid-December through March. This is peak time for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and wildlife tracking, and visitor numbers are very low—excellent for solitude and Peak months: January, February, March

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.5 / 5

Top 3% in ID

Winter is the standout: reliable snowpack, cozy cabin heat, ski/snowshoe access and praised reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Road is not plowed during the winter. Snow can start in October. Check the local weather for Lowman, Idaho or call the Lowman Ranger Station (208) 259-3361 prior to arriving to check on access to the cabin. Road to cabin is closed to motorized traffic from December 15 to April 15 and can only be reached by snowshoes or cross-country skis for the remainder of the year. Depending on the winter, there could still be limited access due to snow levels from April to June.

About Warm Springs Guard Station

Warm Springs Guard Station is a historic backcountry cabin rental in Boise National Forest near Lowman, operated by the Forest Service for winter and seasonal use. The restored cabin features a wood stove, propane fridge, and vault toilets, serving as a base for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and soaking at nearby Bonneville Hot Springs. Reviewers praise the rustic charm and peaceful setting but note firewood supply issues and some outdated kitchen equipment.

The Warm Springs Guard Station offers cabin lodging with basic amenities. It is a unique option within the Boise National Forest.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter offers the most unique experience at Warm Springs Guard Station: a true backcountry sanctuary surrounded by deep snow, quiet trails and the restored historic cabin with a wood stove. Expect daytime highs around 20–35°F (-7 to 2°C) and nighttime lows commonly below freezing (0–15°F / -18 to -9°C), with reliable snowpack from mid-December through March. This is peak time for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and wildlife tracking, and visitor numbers are very low—excellent for solitude and Peak months: January, February, March

Elevation4700 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe South Fork Payette River flows through a tight mountain valley flanked by steep granite walls. Ponderosa pines dominate the slopes, and the elevation creates habitat for migrating elk and deer. Black bears appear in summer. The narrow topography produces microclimates that support plant communities specific to this drainage. The forest opens in places to reveal the granite faces rising on both sides.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe guard station serves as a rustic cabin that accommodates up to six people. It includes one double (queen-sized per user reviews) bed and three single beds with mattresses.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are noted.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Guests may stay up to 14 consecutive nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Six guests are allowed per reservation.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app.

Site SizeSuitable for up to 6 individuals; includes beds and limited indoor space.

PrivacyThe cabin’s secluded location in a narrow mountain valley provides a high level of privacy.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesGuests should bring their own axe for firewood, additional lighting for winter stays, and outdoor equipment suitable for snow travel. The cabin is ideal for families and groups seeking privacy and rustic charm.

Best CampsitesOnly one site exists: a single cabin (Site 001, Loop Warm). Reviewers note Bonneville Hot Springs nearby as a major draw. The cabin itself gets consistent praise for rustic charm and its wood stove, though some mention outdated cookware and occasional missing basics like can openers.

Need help booking Warm Springs Guard Station?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Warm Springs Guard Station is a rustic, historic cabin offering basic amenities. It includes a double bed, three single beds with mattresses, a propane fridge and stove, a dry sink, and a table with chairs. A wood stove serves as the primary heating source, with firewood provided (though it may need splitting). Outside, there is a metal fire ring and a vault toilet. For water, a hand pump is available during summer. There is no electricity or running water, and guests must bring their own bedding, lighting, and other essentials. Trash must be packed out by visitors.

Potable water

Fire rings

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

A variety of recreational activities are available throughout the year, including hiking, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The Bonneville Hot Springs and the South Fork Payette River are key attractions.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsNo flush toilets are available. A vault toilet is located outside the cabin.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

33 reviews

Top-Rated

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

Reviews generally praise the cabin’s charm, cleanliness, and amenities, including a wood stove, propane fridge, and nearby natural attractions. Winter stays are popular for their secluded atmosphere. Complaints primarily focus on firewood availability and maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 33 reviews

What Campers Love

Frequent mentions of the cabin’s rustic charm, convenience of amenities (e.g., wood stove, propane fridge), and proximity to Bonneville Hot Springs. Reviewers also appreciate the peaceful setting and...

Based on 33 reviews

Common Concerns

Firewood availability and quality are recurring issues. Some guests noted that the provided axes were dull and required bringing their own. A notable safety concern involved a guest being injured by...

Based on 33 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

All reviews pertain to the single cabin (site 001). Positive reviews emphasize its charm and cleanliness, while complaints focus on firewood and minor maintenance issues.

Based on 33 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own axe for splitting wood and additional lighting for winter stays, as there is no electricity. A reviewer mentions the absence of a can opener, so consider bringing one. Verify firewood...

Based on 33 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews highlight the cabin’s cozy atmosphere and opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. Summer visitors enjoy hiking and access to the river. Firewood issues are more critical during...

Based on 33 reviews

Camper Quotes

"One of the nicest forest rental cabins you're going to find. It even has a gas-powered fridge!" (Kendra Parris). "Great cabin, clean, convenient amenities." (Casey McMullen). "This is the 3rd time...

Based on 33 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets must be under control at all times. No specific user feedback addresses pet-related experiences.

Based on 33 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a historic backcountry cabin experience with wood heat, winter solitude, and easy access to natural hot springs.

Skip if

You need modern amenities, pre-split firewood, or prefer summer camping over winter cabin stays.

Nearby Campgrounds

Bonneville sits in mid-elevation forest along Warm Springs Creek in Boise National Forest, operated by the Lowman Ranger District. The small campground serves as a base for fishing, hiking, and soaking in nearby Bonneville Hot Springs. Tent and RV sites include vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables, with a resident host maintaining the grounds during peak season.