Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or)

3.77

19 reviews

OCHOCO NATIONAL FOREST 3160 NE 3RD ST, PRINEVILLE, OR, 97754, USA

Peace & Quiet

Quick Facts

4,682 ft

Price

$90/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from mid-May to...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Showers

Opens Ochoco National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

4,682 ft

Price

$90/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from mid-May to...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Showers

Opens Ochoco National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or)

$90.00 - $90.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cabin rental costs $90 per night during peak season (May 15 - October 15). Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.

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

Get Notified When Available

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

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(541) 416-6500

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

3.77

Mixed Reviews

Based on 19 reviews

2 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peacefullocation

"User reviews of Cold Springs Guard Station highlight its peaceful setting, historical charm, and comfortable accommodations. However, some recurring issues include cleanliness left by previous guests and occasional cabin maintenance problems."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

OCHOCO NATIONAL FOREST 3160 NE 3RD ST, PRINEVILLE, OR, 97754, USA

Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or)

OCHOCO NATIONAL FOREST 3160 NE 3RD ST, PRINEVILLE, OR, 97754, USA

Driving directionsTravel approximately 13 miles east on Highway 26. Turn right at the junction to Ochoco Ranger Station (County Road 123), and travel 8 miles to the junction of Forest Service Roads 22 and 42. Stay right to merge onto Forest Service Road 42 and then travel approximately 19 more miles. Just after crossing the North Fork of the Crooked River turn left onto Forest Service Road 30 and travel approximately 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 100 at the signs to Cold Springs Guard Station. Turn right again just as the road forks and proceed through the gate. The route is easily accessible by car, with paved roads most of the way. The last 2 miles to the cabin are on a good dirt road. Ample parking is available for up to eight cars.

The route is easily accessible via paved roads for most of the way, with the last 2 miles on a good dirt road. However, user reviews suggest verifying road conditions for closures or detours, especially during stormy weather.

Nearby places

Prineville (approx. 45 minutes away)

Nearby supplies

The nearest location to purchase groceries or camping supplies is Prineville, approximately 45 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or)

Experience the gentle rhythm of mountain weather at Cold Springs, where sun-drenched days give way to crisp, star-filled nights that invite cozy gatherings around the warmth of the cabin. Early summer transforms the surrounding meadows into nature's own gallery, with waves of wildflowers painting the landscape in brilliant hues. Evening temperatures can dip delightfully low, perfect for campfire stories, while afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, adding drama to the mountain vista and filling the air with the intoxicating scent of rain on sage.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open mid-May–mid-Oct; summer offers clear skies, comfortable temps and meadow/wildflower viewing.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Late summer and early fall get positive notes for clear skies and comfortable temperatures.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 2% in OR

Spring/early summer highly praised for spectacular wildflower displays and vibrant meadows.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Cabin closed mid-Oct–mid-May; winter stays not supported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 - October 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from mid-May to mid-October. Closed the first Tuesday of each month for maintenance.
Current Alerts: Some reviews warn of propane smells and water pressure issues in the cabin. Fire restrictions may be in effect.

About Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or)

Step back in time at Cold Springs Guard Station, where the whispers of forest history echo through pine-scented air. This lovingly preserved 1934 cabin once served as the nerve center for fire communications across the Ochoco National Forest, its switchboard connecting brave lookouts perched high above the wilderness. Today, this rustic retreat welcomes up to 8 guests seeking an authentic forest experience, offering modern comfort within historic walls from mid-May through mid-October. Here, you'll sleep where generations of forest guardians once kept vigilant watch over these ancient woods.

The site is a standalone cabin offering lodging with modern amenities in a remote setting. It is ideal for families or small groups wanting a rustic yet comfortable experience.

Historical SignificanceWithin these weathered walls lies nearly a century of forest service heritage. Built in 1934 when communication meant copper wires strung through towering pines, Cold Springs Guard Station served as the vital link between isolated fire lookouts and ranger stations scattered across the Ochoco wilderness. Forest Service personnel called this cabin home until the 1990s, leaving behind a legacy visible in vintage maps adorning the walls and the worn paths they traveled. Every creak of the floorboards tells a story of dedication to protecting these forests, inviting modern visitors to become part of this continuing narrative.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythm of mountain weather at Cold Springs, where sun-drenched days give way to crisp, star-filled nights that invite cozy gatherings around the warmth of the cabin. Early summer transforms the surrounding meadows into nature's own gallery, with waves of wildflowers painting the landscape in brilliant hues. Evening temperatures can dip delightfully low, perfect for campfire stories, while afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, adding drama to the mountain vista and filling the air with the intoxicating scent of rain on sage.

ElevationNestled at a comfortable mountain elevation where meadows meet forest, Cold Springs offers that perfect high-country atmosphere without extreme altitude challenges.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a living tapestry of color spread before your cabin door. Cold Springs sits cradled in an upland meadow near the expansive Big Summit Prairie, where nature stages its most spectacular wildflower show. From the delicate white blooms of wild parsley to the striking magenta of bitterroot, from the elegant Peck's mariposa lily to brushstrokes of Indian paintbrush, the meadow transforms with each passing week. Ancient ponderosa pines stand sentinel at the meadow's edge, their vanilla-scented bark warming in the sun, while groves of quaking aspen shimmer and dance in the slightest breeze. Aromatic sagebrush completes this high desert forest mosaic, creating a landscape that captures the very essence of the Ochoco wilderness.

Geological RegionCold Springs Guard Station rests in the heart of the Ochoco National Forest's most enchanting landscape—where upland meadows merge seamlessly with Big Summit Prairie's rolling expanse. This unique ecological crossroads showcases the stunning diversity of Oregon's high country, from aromatic sagebrush flats that stretch toward distant ridges to cathedral-like groves of old-growth ponderosa pine. Quaking aspen colonies mark the presence of hidden springs and seeps, their leaves creating a gentle symphony with each passing breeze. This remarkable transition zone supports one of the region's most celebrated wildflower displays, making Cold Springs a front-row seat to nature's ever-changing mountain theater.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Up to 14 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people per cabin.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutA single cabin site with a spacious layout including a picnic table and fire ring.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability mentioned, reservations are required.

Cancellation PolicyThe cancellation policy includes a $10 fee for changes or cancellations. Refunds are pro-rated depending on the timing of the cancellation. Late cancellations (14 days or fewer prior to the reservation date) forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned. Visitors with disabilities might need to confirm suitability with the ranger district.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 8 people, with ample parking space for up to 8 cars.

PrivacyThe site is isolated, offering a peaceful and serene environment surrounded by natural features like ponderosa pines and upland meadows.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesDrive around Big Summit Prairie to enjoy varied vegetation zones. Bring sufficient bedding and clean supplies, as the cabin may have cleaning or maintenance issues.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Activities you can enjoy

The primary recreational activities include wildlife watching, wildflower viewing, mountain biking, road biking, hiking, fishing, and hunting. The area surrounding the cabin is rich in natural beauty and offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

HikingVisitors noted nearby hiking trails, with Lookout Mountain being a highlight. The trails are known for beautiful wildflower displays, particularly in the spring and early summer.

FishingFishing is listed among the available activities, but specific details like types of fish or fishing spots were not provided.

BikingBoth road biking and mountain biking are popular activities in the area.

Wildlife viewingWildlife spotting opportunities are abundant, including sightings of wild horses, antelope, deer, elk, and various bird species like hawks and owls. The surrounding area is known for its biodiversity.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wild animals such as pack rats in the attic, as noted by user reviews. Visitors should use caution during fire bans and storms.

Active AlertsSome reviews warn of propane smells and water pressure issues in the cabin. Fire restrictions may be in effect.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyCampfires are permitted in the fire ring, subject to fire restrictions during red flag alerts.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services can likely be accessed in Prineville, which is approximately 45 minutes away. Specific details about hospitals or ranger stations are not provided.

Trash & RecyclingThis is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility. Visitors are required to bring their own garbage bags and take all trash with them after their stay.

Water FeaturesNo direct mention of nearby water features within the cabin vicinity.

Camp HostForest Service personnel occasionally conduct water tests and maintenance. Contact the Prineville Ranger Station for updates.

Weather at Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or)

Reviews

3.8

19 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Cold Springs Cabin - Ochoco Nf (Or) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Cold Springs Guard Station highlight its peaceful setting, historical charm, and comfortable accommodations. However, some recurring issues include cleanliness left by previous guests and occasional cabin maintenance problems.

Review Summaries

Based on 19 reviews

What Campers Love

Many reviewers praised the peaceful location, the abundance of wildlife, and the cabin's blend of rustic charm and modern comforts such as propane-powered appliances and solar lighting. 'This place...

Based on 19 reviews

Common Concerns

Some guests reported cleanliness issues left by previous visitors, such as trash and unclean bedding. Occasional maintenance problems were noted, including propane smells, water pressure issues, and...

Based on 19 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing specific items such as twin mattress covers, fitted sheets, and garbage bags for packing out waste. A detailed map or directions from the Forest Service Ranger Station in...

Based on 19 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and early summer are praised for wildflower displays. Late summer and early fall receive positive ratings for clear skies and comfortable temperatures, but some wildlife like nighthawks may...

Based on 19 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This place is a gift. Kitchen is fully stocked with dishes, flatware, utensils, pots & pans.' - Jennifer Jones. 2. 'The cabin was clean and all the utilities functioned well.' - Patrick S. 3. 'It...

Based on 19 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight issues like low water pressure and occasional pest problems but also emphasize the cabin's well-equipped kitchen and historical charm.

Based on 19 reviews