How much does camping cost at Eight Mile Guard Station?

Camping fees at Eight Mile Guard Station are $60/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Eight Mile Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Eight Mile 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 Eight Mile Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Eight Mile Guard Station has 31 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 Eight Mile Guard Station?

Eight Mile 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 Eight Mile Guard Station?

Yes, Eight Mile Guard Station has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Eight Mile Guard Station have?

Eight Mile 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 Eight Mile Guard Station?

Pets are not allowed at Eight Mile Guard Station. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Eight Mile Guard Station?

Eight Mile Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Showers. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Eight Mile Guard Station?

Popular activities at Eight Mile Guard Station include Hiking, Fishing, Biking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Eight Mile Guard Station

Q: Can I have a campfire at Eight Mile Guard Station?

Fire policies at Eight Mile Guard Station: 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.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.85

21 reviews

322 N. 4TH STREET, MONTPELIER, ID, 83254, USA

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025 - ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Showers

Book on Montpelier Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open May 15, 2025 - ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Showers

Book on Montpelier Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Eight Mile Guard Station

$60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $60.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-847-0375

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Eight Mile Guard Station

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

322 N. 4TH STREET, MONTPELIER, ID, 83254, USA

Eight Mile Guard Station

322 N. 4TH STREET, MONTPELIER, ID, 83254, USA

Nearby places

Soda Springs - 11 miles (approximately 20 minutes)

Montpelier - null distance

Driving directionsEight Mile Guard Station is located 11 miles southwest of Soda Springs. Head east on Main Street in Soda Springs. Turn right onto South 3rd Street E for 1 mile. Continue onto Bailey Creek 8 Mile Road for 3.5 miles. Turn left onto 8 Mile Road for half a mile. Continue onto Nounan Road for 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Road 425/8 Mile Canyon Road/8 Mile Creek Road. Eight Mile Guard Station will be on the right in about 3.7 miles. Maps are available upon request at the district office.

Weather at Eight Mile Guard Station

Current alerts(10)

Click here for more information about Caribou-Targhee National Forest
Guard Station Maximum Capacity is 75
Guests should be aware that there is a risk of exposure to hantavirus when visiting remote cabins; click here to learn more
Lighting instructions are posted in the cabin; please read and follow them carefully before lighting any appliance

Best Time to Camp at Eight Mile Guard Station

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the best weather for the site’s core activities: expect crisp mountain mornings around 43°F warming to pleasant afternoons near 65–70°F, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing Eightmile Creek. Trails, meadows and wildflower displays are at their peak from late June through August, and wildlife viewing is excellent in early morning and evening; crowds remain moderate due to the remote location. Note that late-summer wildfire smoke or temporary, D Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: January, February, March, April

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer listed as best season: reliable access, wildlife and wildflowers highlighted by reviews.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15, 2025 - December 31, 2025.

About Eight Mile Guard Station

Eight Mile Guard Station sits in mid-elevation forest within Caribou-Targhee National Forest, operated by the Montpelier Ranger District near Soda Springs. This very small property offers cabin lodging and limited tent and group camping, with access to Eightmile Creek fishing, mountain biking, and hiking trails through meadows and wildflower displays. The gated setting provides security and spacious outdoor areas for families, though water availability and maintenance standards have been inconsistent.

Eight Mile Guard Station offers a mix of camping options, including a cabin with nonelectric facilities and outdoor spaces for tent camping and group activities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the best weather for the site’s core activities: expect crisp mountain mornings around 43°F warming to pleasant afternoons near 65–70°F, ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and fishing Eightmile Creek. Trails, meadows and wildflower displays are at their peak from late June through August, and wildlife viewing is excellent in early morning and evening; crowds remain moderate due to the remote location. Note that late-summer wildfire smoke or temporary, D Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: January, February, March, April

Elevation6000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryEightmile Creek runs through the property, which sits in an alpine meadow surrounded by conifer forests and Bear River Range peaks. The area's limestone and dolomite geology creates dramatic mountain backdrops. Wildlife sightings are common: reviews mention elk, marmots, beavers, and occasional moose. Wildflower displays peak from late June through August in the surrounding meadows.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin includes four bunk beds with no mattresses, accommodating up to eight people. Outdoor dining and entertainment spaces are available in a renovated garage. Reviews highlight conveniences like propane heaters and ranges, but also note issues like a lack of cleaning supplies or kitchen utensils.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum cabin capacity: 75 guests in total
cabin sleeps 8 people.

Groups

The guard station can accommodate up to 75 people in total. The cabin itself sleeps eight, and there are spaces outdoors for group activities and tents.

Tents

Tents are 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.

AccessibilityThe cabin’s steep inclines and slippery bridge make access difficult for guests with mobility issues, as noted in user reviews.

Site SizeNo specific site sizes mentioned, but the cabin accommodates up to eight people indoors and has large outdoor spaces for activities.

PrivacyThe cabin is gated, providing privacy, and user reviews noted its quiet surroundings except for occasional livestock or traffic.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesGuests should bring sleeping pads and bags, cookware, water, cleaning supplies, and a maul/wedge for firewood. Accessibility can be difficult for those with mobility issues due to uneven terrain.

Best CampsitesOnly one site exists: the cabin itself. Reviews note the gated entrance provides privacy and quiet, though occasional livestock wander through if gates are left open. The large outdoor spaces work well for family activities and additional tent setup if needed.

Need help booking Eight Mile Guard Station?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

No water is available at the cabin.

Showers

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Eight Mile Guard Station

Eight Mile Guard Station provides a variety of recreational activities. Guests can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, off-road vehicle trails, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, fishing, and hunting. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound during summer, and Soda Springs offers historical landmarks and attractions nearby.

Hiking4.0/5

Biking4.0/5Top 10% in Idaho

Mountain biking trails are available near the guard station and mentioned in activities.

Fishing3.0/5

Eightmile Creek runs through the property, but no detailed angler feedback was provided.

Winter Activities2.0/5

Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling possible, but high avalanche danger and access issues in winter.

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote, gated site at ~6,000 ft with quiet nights implies good dark-sky potential.

Photography4.0/5Wildflowers, dramatic peaks, meadows and abundant wildlife make strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

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.

Fire PolicyDon'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.

Trash & RecyclingGuests are expected to pack out their trash as there are no garbage bags or cleaning supplies provided.

Cell CoverageNo explicit mention of cell phone service availability in the authoritative or user reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Eight Mile Guard Station

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.9

21 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Eight Mile Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Eight Mile Guard Station are mixed, with some praising the cabin's amenities and spacious outdoor areas, while others highlight significant maintenance and cleanliness issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 21 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews noted the gated area for added security, the convenience of propane heaters and ranges, the spacious outdoor areas for family activities, and the abundance of wildlife and natural...

Based on 21 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints included issues like duct-taped toilets, slow-draining sinks, mouse droppings, lack of cleaning supplies, inconsistent water availability, and poor maintenance overall.

Based on 21 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 is frequently mentioned, with mixed reviews highlighting its spaciousness and amenities but also significant maintenance challenges.

Based on 21 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing their own maul and wedges for splitting firewood, as well as cleaning supplies, cookware, and water. Several users advised closing gates to keep livestock out.

Based on 21 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews mention high avalanche danger and accessibility challenges. Summer reviews highlighted the abundance of wildlife and flowers but also noted the lack of available water and maintenance...

Based on 21 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'We love this place and come back every year. Perfect family camping spot.' 2. 'The worst of the issues was entering the cabin to find the toilet duct taped closed.' 3. 'We reserved this site for...

Based on 21 reviews

Accessibility Features

Older adults and guests with mobility issues struggled with steep inclines and slippery bridges.

Based on 21 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews related to pets.

Based on 21 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Eight Mile Guard Station

$60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $60.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-847-0375

Go if

You want a secluded cabin or small-group forest experience with wildlife viewing and don't need guaranteed water service.

Skip if

You require reliable water hookups, consistent maintenance standards, or immediate ranger station support.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.1

(137)

Emigration Campground

322 N 4TH, MONTPELIER, ID, 83254, USA

Emigration Campground sits at 7,231 feet in Caribou-Targhee National Forest, a short drive from Bear Lake and the Highline Trail. The Forest Service operates this high-elevation alpine site with flush and vault toilets, shaded tent and RV spots, and group options. Visitors hike wildflower trails, fish cold mountain streams, bike forest routes, and watch for wildlife during cool summer mornings and evenings.