Copper Basin Guard Station

Star5.15
15 reviews
P.O. Box 507, Mackay, ID, 83251, USA
Romantic GetawayPeace & QuietStargazing

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season is June ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Showers

Opens U.S. Forest Service 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
Copper Basin Guard Station
$100.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for the Copper Basin Guard Station during peak season (June 13 - September 23, 2025) is $100. This fee does not include potential...
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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
208-588-3400
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What Campers Say

5.15

Top-Rated

Based on 15 reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshowershiking

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Copper Basin Guard Station are overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the cabin’s cleanliness, comfort, and well-thought-out amenities. Visitors also praise the stunning natural setting and abundant recreational opportunities."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P.O. Box 507, Mackay, ID, 83251, USA

Copper Basin Guard Station

P.O. Box 507, Mackay, ID, 83251, USA

Driving directionsFrom Mackay, Idaho, drive north on Highway 93 approximately 17 miles and take a left on the Trail Creek Road. Travel approximately 15 miles on the Trail Creek Road. This road starts as paved and turns to gravel at approximately 12 miles. Turn left at the Wild horse/Copper Basin turnoff, and continue on this road for approximately 2 miles and bear left on Road #135. This road continues for approximately 14 miles. The Copper Basin Guard Station is on the right at the intersection of Roads 135 and 138. From Ketchum, Idaho, travel north east on the Trail Creek Road, #208, for approximately 23 miles. Turn right at the Wildhorse/Copper Basin turnoff and continue on this road for approximately 2 miles. Bear left on Road #135. This road continues for approximately 14 miles. The Copper Basin Guard Station is on the right at the intersection of Roads #135 and #138.
The Trail Creek Road starts as paved but transitions to gravel approximately 12 miles in, requiring travelers to navigate an unpaved road for most of the journey to the campsite. The final roads, including Road #135 and Road #138, are accessible but unpaved, potentially requiring careful driving in adverse weather conditions.
Nearby places
Mackay (17 miles, approximately 25 minutes), Ketchum (23 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies for groceries, fuel, and camping essentials are likely available in Mackay, ID, approximately 17 miles away. Specific supplier details are not provided.

Best Time to Camp at Copper Basin Guard Station

Summer transforms Copper Basin into an alpine paradise, with warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for stargazing. While winter brings a blanket of pristine snow and temperatures that can plunge to frigid levels, the peak season runs through the warmer months when wildflowers paint the meadows and mountain breezes carry the scent of pine. Plan your visit during summer to experience the basin at its most accessible and vibrant, when moderate temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 23% in ID

Summer is peak season—warm days, cool nights, ideal for hiking and stargazing.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 3% in ID

Fall colors enhance scenery; reviews note early fall as a popular, beautiful time to visit.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Site opens mid‑June; spring access/preparedness not indicated in overview.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Official open season is June 13–Sept 23; winter visits are outside stated season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 13 - September 23, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season is June 13 - September 23, 2025. Reservations can start from June 25, 2025.

About Copper Basin Guard Station

Nestled in the heart of Idaho's wilderness, Copper Basin Guard Station offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort in its 900-square-foot log cabin retreat. This thoughtfully designed two-bedroom haven welcomes up to six guests (eight maximum) into a world where mountain hospitality meets contemporary convenience. Wake up to the aroma of breakfast cooking on your propane stove, store fresh provisions in the full-size refrigerator, and gather around the crackling wood stove as evening shadows stretch across the valley. With hot showers, flush toilets, and a fully equipped kitchen complete with cookware and cleaning supplies, you'll find everything needed for an unforgettable mountain escape without sacrificing essential comforts.
Copper Basin Guard Station primarily caters to those looking for cabin accommodations. Primitive camping, tent camping, and RV camping are not explicitly available.
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Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly mentioned.
Stay Limit
  • Maximum stay of 6 nights
  • minimum stay of 2 nights.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

The area offers a plethora of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, birdwatching, wildlife viewing, camping, and photography. Visitors can also enjoy OHV riding, driving for pleasure, and hunting.
HikingThe surrounding area is ideal for hiking, with access to trails like the Bellas Trail and high mountain lakes.
FishingFishing opportunities include streams and lakes in the area. The East Fork of the Big Lost River is a notable nearby fishing spot.
BikingThe region supports mountain bike riding, with trails suitable for exploring the rugged terrain.
Wildlife viewingThe area is rich in wildlife, including elk, deer, mountain goat, antelope, badger, and coyote. Birdwatching is also a popular activity.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsNo specific hazards mentioned, but travelers should prepare for remote conditions and potential wildlife encounters.
Active AlertsCampfires are allowed only in the metal fire ring that is provided.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Copper Basin Guard Station

Reviews

5.2
15 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Copper Basin Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Copper Basin Guard Station are overwhelmingly positive, with many highlighting the cabin’s cleanliness, comfort, and well-thought-out amenities. Visitors also praise the stunning natural setting and abundant recreational opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and well-maintained cabin, fully equipped kitchen, comfortable beds, running water and showers, and breathtaking views. The wildlife and proximity to recreational activities such as fishing and...
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Based on 15 reviews

Common Concerns

A few reviews noted the presence of cattle near the cabin, causing disturbances early in the morning. Another reviewer pointed out discrepancies in the listing, such as bunk bed sizes stated to be...
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Based on 15 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring proper bedding for full-sized bunk beds, plan for early morning disturbances from nearby cattle, and bring non-perishable food and essential toiletries since there is no convenience store...
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Based on 15 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer and early fall appear to be the most popular times to visit, with favorable weather and opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. Fall colors enhance the scenery, and wildlife sightings are...
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Based on 15 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "Probably my best stay ever. The cabin was clean and very well kept. Fall colors at their best." - Blaine F. - "Super comfortable, so many amenities that it feels downright luxurious. 11/10 would...
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Based on 15 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

All reviews reference site #001, the only cabin available for rental. Guests emphasize its high-quality amenities and excellent location.
Based on 15 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed in the cabin, as explicitly stated in the rules.
Based on 15 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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