Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab

Star4.07
19 reviews
P.O. BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA

Quick Facts

4,800 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season: May 8th...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Umatilla National Forest 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
Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for the Ditch Creek Guard Station cabin is $50 without additional discounts, taxes, or fees. Seasonal rates apply during May 8th to...
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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
541-676-9187
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What Campers Say

4.07

Satisfactory

Based on 19 reviews

Most mentioned

location

"Reviews are mixed, with some praising the cozy and scenic environment while others criticize the lack of water and maintenance issues. The cabin's lack of running water and occasional cleanliness problems are common themes."

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Campground Map

P.O. BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA

Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab

P.O. BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA

Driving directionsFrom Lexington, OR, take Highway 74/207 east to Heppner. At the junction just outside the southern edge of Heppner, take a left (east) on paved Willow Creek Road. Travel 23 miles past Willow Creek Lake, Cutsforth County Park, and up Coalmine Hill. At the top of the hill, take a right (west) on Forest Service Road 21 (a gravel road) and travel 3.5 miles. The cabin is located on a hill on the north side of the road and is accessed by two short entrance roads (Forest Service Road 050 and 051).
Primarily accessible via paved Willow Creek Road and gravel Forest Service Road 21. The road quality is generally good, but seasonal closures and fire conditions may restrict access.
Nearby places
Lexington, OR (~27 miles, ~40 minutes)
Heppner, OR (~27 miles, ~40 minutes)
Morrow County OHV Park (~30 miles, ~37 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and general supplies are available in Heppner, OR (~40 minutes away). Limited supplies like ice and food options can be found at Morrow County OHV park (~37 minutes away).

Best Time to Camp at Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab

From May through November, Ditch Creek Guard Station basks in nature's perfect balance. Imagine waking to crisp mornings around 49°F, then enjoying afternoon adventures in comfortable 74°F sunshine. The famously dry Oregon summers mean your outdoor plans rarely face interruption—with less than 0.06 inches of rain during peak weeks. Summer visitors are treated to over 15 hours of glorious daylight, giving you ample time to explore every trail, cast every line, and soak in every sunset from your historic mountain retreat.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open May–Nov; comfortable summer temps (~49–74°F) and many activities available.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into late November but water is often shut off late fall; cooler weather and fewer services.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Positive spring reviews and late-spring access from May 8; water access can be finicky early season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed outside May 8–Nov 29, so winter visits not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 8 - November 29.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season: May 8th - November 29th.
  • Current Alerts: Water supply issues are ongoing. Guests are advised to check with the Heppner Ranger District at (541) 676-9187 for updates before arrival.

About Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab

Step back in time at Ditch Creek Guard Station, where 1930s craftsmanship meets modern comfort in the heart of Oregon's wilderness. This charming historic cabin, lovingly built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, welcomes you with its cozy living room, restful bedroom, fully equipped kitchen, and modern bathroom—all powered by propane for an authentic yet comfortable experience. Beyond your doorstep, dense pine forests whisper ancient stories while meadows bloom with wildflowers and crystal-clear streams babble their way through the landscape. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtful equestrian facilities, including a sturdy corral and fresh water trough for your four-legged companions.
This site offers options for cabin lodging and tent camping in a secluded, forested environment.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.

Amenities available

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

Activities you can enjoy

Guests can engage in numerous recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding area features over 26 miles of trails and opportunities for mushroom and berry picking.
HikingThere are over 26 miles of trails in the Heppner Ranger District, ranging from 4,100 to 5,300 feet in elevation. A user noted, 'Lots of hiking in the area on marked trails,' and another mentioned enjoying 'the hike to Little Bald Mountain.'
FishingFishing opportunities are abundant in nearby streams, Penland Lake, and Bull Prairie Lake. A reviewer remarked, 'Lake Penland looks like it's worth a try, just a couple of miles drive from the cabin.'
SwimmingThere is a small pond near the cabin, which one user described as 'a great pond for swimming (at least my dog loves it).'
Wildlife viewingDeer and elk are common in the area, and bats can be seen in the evenings. A user mentioned, 'Lots of bird activity, so that was nice.'
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWater may not be available due to seasonal issues; carpenter ants have previously been reported. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and bats are common in the area. Fire conditions may restrict fire ring usage.
Active AlertsWater supply issues are ongoing. Guests are advised to check with the Heppner Ranger District at (541) 676-9187 for updates before arrival.

Weather at Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab

Reviews

4.1
19 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with some praising the cozy and scenic environment while others criticize the lack of water and maintenance issues. The cabin's lack of running water and occasional cleanliness problems are common themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the scenic location, well-stocked kitchen, and seclusion. One reviewer commented, 'Four of us spent a week at the cabin... Great family experience. We look forward to staying in the...
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Based on 19 reviews

Common Concerns

Issues include lack of running water, cleanliness problems, and carpenter ant infestations. One user stated, 'The cabin was really dirty upon arrival... Disappointed that there was no water.'
Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing plenty of water, extra cleaning supplies, and alternate light sources due to limited propane lighting. A reviewer suggested, 'Bring a towel or two to use as temp curtains...
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Based on 19 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Water availability is a recurring seasonal issue, particularly in late fall and winter when it is shut off. Some users report better experiences during warmer months.
Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Had a great time!' - Colleen G. 2. 'Beautiful scenery surrounding. Would definitely come back.' - Jeff D. 3. 'The hide-a-bed couch is a typical uncomfortable hide-a-bed bed!' - Richard M.
Based on 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 receives mixed reviews. One user noted, 'It's a fine cabin with good road access,' while another mentioned, 'No running water, and the fridge didn't work.'
Based on 19 reviews

Accessibility Features

No direct reviews about accessibility features were found, but the cabin is noted as not meeting accessibility standards due to narrow doorways and halls.
Based on 19 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and one user noted their dog enjoyed swimming in the nearby pond.
Based on 19 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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