Short Creek Guard Station

Star4.90
10 reviews
SHORT CREEK GUARD STATION DISTRICT OFFICE: 327 SW FRONT ST., P.O. BOX 337 PRAIRIE CITY OR 97869
Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season: June 10...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Showers

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website
Get Directions

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
Short Creek Guard Station
$60.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for the cabin is $60 during peak season (June 10 to October 31). Rates are consistent across reservable peak dates.
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
541-820-3800
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What Campers Say

4.90

Top-Rated

Based on 10 reviews

Most mentioned

quietwater

"User reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction with the cabin's location, amenities, and remote setting. Positive sentiments focus on the quiet, clean environment and proximity to hiking trails."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

SHORT CREEK GUARD STATION DISTRICT OFFICE: 327 SW FRONT ST., P.O. BOX 337 PRAIRIE CITY OR 97869

Short Creek Guard Station

SHORT CREEK GUARD STATION DISTRICT OFFICE: 327 SW FRONT ST., P.O. BOX 337 PRAIRIE CITY OR 97869

Driving directionsFrom the town of Prairie City, OR., turn South (right) onto South Main Street. Follow South Main Street to the junction with Bridge Street, turn left onto Bridge Street. Follow Bridge Street past the local cemetery, the road then changes to County Road 62. Continue on County Road 62 approximately 7 miles to the junction with Forest Road 13. Turn left and follow Forest Road 13 East approximately 16.5 miles, the guard station will be on the right at the junction of Forest Road 13 and Forest Road 16.
The roads leading to the guard station include paved sections and Forest Service roads. Although accessible year-round, guests should inquire about road closures or weather conditions that could impact access.
Nearby places
John Day (38 miles, estimated travel time unknown)
Nearby supplies
Prairie City likely provides groceries, fuel, and other supplies. Specific distances and availability are not mentioned.

Best Time to Camp at Short Creek Guard Station

Experience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the high country, where each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Summer and early fall (June through October) unveil the cabin's full splendor, with warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for stargazing. As winter approaches, the landscape transforms into a snow-dusted wonderland, bringing crystalline beauty alongside freezing temperatures. Spring arrives with gentle rains that awaken the meadows and fill the creeks with snowmelt.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 12% in OR

Open June 10–Oct 31; summer/early fall 'unveil the cabin's full' features and amenities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open through Oct 31; fall offers trails, colors and continued access to amenities.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Closed until June 10; spring access is generally not available.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed Nov–Jun; winter visits face cold and limited amenities per overview.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June 10 to October 31 (yearly peak season).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open season: June 10 to October 31; closed season outside these dates.
  • Current Alerts: No active alerts are mentioned.

About Short Creek Guard Station

Escape to Short Creek Guard Station, where rustic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of Oregon's wilderness. This secluded cabin retreat invites adventurers to disconnect from the everyday and immerse themselves in nature's playground. Whether you're casting a line in pristine waters, tracking wildlife through ancient forests, or setting out to explore the legendary wilderness areas that surround this historic outpost, Short Creek serves as your gateway to authentic outdoor experiences.
Short Creek Guard Station is primarily a cabin rental facility set in a remote forest environment.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in instructions are provided via confirmation email.
Check-out
Check-out instructions are provided via confirmation email.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

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

Activities you can enjoy

Short Creek Guard Station serves as a gateway to an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Monument Rock and Strawberry Mountain wilderness areas offer extensive trails and rich biodiversity.
HikingModerate hiking trails are accessible near the cabin, with rugged trails available in nearby wilderness areas. Over 100 miles of trails traverse the wilderness, suitable for varying levels of hikers.
FishingFishing opportunities are available in the riparian habitats of the North Fork of the Malheur Scenic River. Anglers can expect diverse species and serene settings.
BikingMountain biking is a popular activity, particularly for those who enjoy long grades and minimal traffic. This aligns with user reviews praising the road cycling opportunities.
Wildlife viewingThe area around the cabin is home to elk, deer, antelope, black bears, bighorn sheep, grouse, and a wide variety of birds. Wildlife viewing is a prominent attraction.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsGuests should take precautions for bears in the area by storing food securely. Cattle may also be present near the cabin.
Active AlertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Short Creek Guard Station

Reviews

4.9
10 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Short Creek Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a high level of satisfaction with the cabin's location, amenities, and remote setting. Positive sentiments focus on the quiet, clean environment and proximity to hiking trails.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciated the running water, comfortable furniture, flush toilets, fire pit, and the quiet environment away from mobile phone coverage and heavy traffic.
Based on 10 reviews

Common Concerns

Minor issues raised include the lack of cleaning services between guests leading to occasional cleanliness concerns. One reviewer mentioned dog hair left by a previous renter. Another highlighted...
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Based on 10 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing additional lanterns or flashlights, a sharp knife, and potholders. They also emphasize cleaning the cabin thoroughly before departure and bringing extra bedding and supplies.
Based on 10 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight the cabin's appeal during warmer months when amenities like running water and flush toilets are available. Winter visits may face challenges due to limited amenities and colder...
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Based on 10 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This cabin has running water! There is a kitchen sink, bathroom sink, flush toilet, and a shower. Propane powers the cookstove, refrigerator, heater, and lamps." - Cheryl Hill. "Lovely creek right...
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Based on 10 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most reviews pertain to campsite 001, Loop A, praising its cleanliness and quiet environment.
Based on 10 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews addressing accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 10 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not allowed in the Guard Station, and one user expressed dissatisfaction about dog hair left by a previous renter.
Based on 10 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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