How much does camping cost at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

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

Is Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin first-come first-served or reservation?

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin 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 Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin before I book?

Yes! Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin 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 Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin is open May 08 to November 15. 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 Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

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

How many campsites does Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin have?

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin 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 Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

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

What amenities are available at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

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

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

Q: Can I have a campfire at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

Fire policies at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin: Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.63

45 reviews

327 SW FRONT ST./PO BOX 337, Prairie City, OR, 97869, USA

Top 15% in ORSummer

BReport Card

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Forest Camping Oregon

Quick Facts

5,100 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on Blue Mountain Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,100 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on Blue Mountain Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

$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

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Provider

541-820-3800SM.FS.malpubinfo@usda.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

327 SW FRONT ST./PO BOX 337, Prairie City, OR, 97869, USA

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

327 SW FRONT ST./PO BOX 337, Prairie City, OR, 97869, USA

Nearby places

John Day (31 miles, approximately 45 minutes by car)

Driving directionsFrom John Day, OR., travel south on Highway 395 approximately 17 miles to County Road 63 (Izee Highway). Turn right and take County Road 63 to the junction of Forest Service Road 24. Turn right and take Forest Road 24 approximately 10 miles. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 514. Travel about 1/4 mile staying to your right until you reach the locked gate that allows entry to the facility grounds.

Weather at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

Current alerts(6)

Deer Creek Guard Station is in a remote forest location with no mobile phone coverage.
End-of-season dates are weather dependent and could close sooner if conditions permit.
Learn more about the The Malheaur National Forest
The cabin remains locked; guests must use a combination lock code contained in the reservation confirmation letter

Best Time to Camp at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable warm, dry weather and full access to trails, creeks, and meadows — daytime highs typically range from the mid-60s to upper-70s °F with crisp nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s. Wildflower displays, prime fishing in Deer Creek and nearby streams, long daylight for hiking and biking, and excellent wildlife viewing make July–August especially rewarding. Nights are famously clear for stargazing, and while July–August are the busiest weeks, crowds are still moderate vs.沿 Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 15% in OR

Best season: warm, dry, full access to trails, creeks and blooming wildflowers.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 08 to November 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations from May 6 to November 15 annually.

About Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin sits in the mid-elevation forests of Malheur National Forest, operated by the Blue Mountain Ranger District near John Day. This remote, historic rental cabin offers a spacious, well-equipped kitchen, propane heat and lighting, and a quiet base for hiking, fishing Deer Creek, and wildlife viewing. Guests appreciate the seclusion and cleanliness, though bunk beds draw complaints and rodents occasionally rustle in the walls.

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin is a unique lodging option offering a rustic and secluded camping experience. It is not a traditional campground but a forest service cabin.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable warm, dry weather and full access to trails, creeks, and meadows — daytime highs typically range from the mid-60s to upper-70s °F with crisp nights in the mid-30s to mid-40s. Wildflower displays, prime fishing in Deer Creek and nearby streams, long daylight for hiking and biking, and excellent wildlife viewing make July–August especially rewarding. Nights are famously clear for stargazing, and while July–August are the busiest weeks, crowds are still moderate vs.沿 Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation5100 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryDouglas fir and ponderosa pine forests surround the cabin at 5,100 feet, with Deer Creek winding through broad, flat meadows below. Spring and summer bring wildflower carpets that attract wild horses, elk, black bears, deer, and wild turkeys. The terrain is spacious and mostly level, ideal for wandering. Nights are clear enough for serious stargazing when the propane lamps go out.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin accommodates up to six people and includes sleeping options such as a Murphy bed, futon, and log bunk bed. The kitchen is fully equipped with propane stove, refrigerator, and cooking utensils. Bedding, flashlights, and emergency supplies must be brought by guests.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay duration is 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The cabin accommodates up to six people.

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.

AccessibilityThe cabin includes accessibility features such as an accessible vault toilet. No additional accessibility details are mentioned in user reviews.

Site SizeThe cabin area is described as spacious, with adequate indoor sleeping arrangements and outdoor grounds for exploring.

PrivacyThe site offers excellent privacy due to its remote location, with reviewers frequently praising the quiet and solitude.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring extra lighting such as lanterns or candles, especially for reading. Opt for the Murphy bed over the bunk beds for better comfort.

Need help booking Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin?

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

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin offers guests a mix of rustic facilities with essential amenities suitable for a secluded forest stay. The cabin includes propane-powered lighting, heating, cooking, and refrigeration, which reviewers describe as functional but sometimes requiring adjustment. Guests must bring potable water as stream water is limited in late summer and untreated. An accessible vault toilet is situated near the cabin, described by users as among the cleanest seen in similar facilities. Outdoor amenities include a picnic table and campfire ring adjacent to a creek that offers seasonal water availability. Firewood can be collected nearby, but carrying trash out is mandatory.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

Camping at Deer Creek Guard Station offers a variety of outdoor activities including wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and big game hunting. Guests reported spotting wild horses, elk, deer, and turkeys, with fishing opportunities in nearby creeks and rivers. Hiking trails in the area, such as Flagtail Mountain and Strawberry Mountain, are highlighted.

Wildlife viewing4.5/5Top 1% in Oregon

Frequent sightings of wild horses, elk, black bears, deer and turkeys; wildflower meadows draw wildlife.

Hiking4.0/5

Fishing4.0/5

Fishing on Deer Creek and South Fork John Day River; anglers report trout and steelhead.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote, secluded cabin at 5,100 ft implies low light and good night skies.

Photography4.5/5Wildflower carpets, meadows, wildlife and mountain lookouts give 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 Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The site has an accessible vault toilet, praised for cleanliness by users.

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: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingGuests are required to carry out all trash and recycling. No on-site trash disposal facilities are mentioned.

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

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From Booking Sources

4.6

45 reviews

Top-Rated

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

User feedback for Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin is overwhelmingly positive. Guests praised its cleanliness, amenities, and tranquil location. Negative comments were relatively rare and mostly concerned minor maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 45 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests frequently mentioned the cabin's spaciousness, cleanliness, and well-stocked kitchen. The remote and quiet location was highly praised, making it ideal for relaxation and wildlife spotting....

Based on 45 reviews

Common Concerns

Some reviewers noted maintenance issues such as broken futons and missing window screens. Rodent noise and presence under the deck was another concern. Other complaints included propane odor due to...

Based on 45 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

All feedback is associated with campsite 01, loop AREA DEER CREEK GUARD STATION CABIN. Positive mentions include its spacious interior and location, while complaints noted occasional maintenance...

Based on 45 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing extra lighting such as lanterns and flashlights, sufficient potable water, and emergency supplies. Directions from authoritative sources should be prioritized over GPS...

Based on 45 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight abundant wildlife and blooming wildflowers, while fall reviews focus on cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. Late summer may require extra caution due to reduced stream water...

Based on 45 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The cabin itself was clean and very well maintained." - Mallory Hartz "Loved seeing the wild horses and finding the hidden swing." - Katie M "Incredible night skies and wildlife. A treasure and a...

Based on 45 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features like the vault toilet were positively noted, but no specific feedback from users with disabilities was provided.

Based on 45 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed at the cabin, as specified in authoritative sources.

Based on 45 reviews

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Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

$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

541-820-3800SM.FS.malpubinfo@usda.gov

Go if

You want a quiet, off-grid cabin experience with a full kitchen and don't mind basic bunks or occasional rodent sounds.

Skip if

You need cell service, plush bedding, or prefer not to hear wildlife activity inside the walls.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

3.9

(42)

Murderers Creek Guard Station

Prairie City Ranger District: 327 SW Front Street, P.O. Box 337

Murderers Creek Guard Station sits in mid-elevation forest within Malheur National Forest, operated by the Prairie City Ranger District near John Day. This historic rental cabin offers a remote base for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables on-site. The property accommodates tent and RV camping alongside the cabin rental, appealing to visitors seeking solitude in working forest country.

Deer Creek Guard Station Cabin

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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