How much does camping cost at American River Guard Station?

Camping fees at American River Guard Station range from $90/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is American River Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

American River Guard Station 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 American River Guard Station before I book?

Yes! American River Guard Station has 9 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 American River Guard Station?

American River Guard Station is open January 01 to December 31. 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 American River Guard Station?

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

How many campsites does American River Guard Station have?

American River Guard Station 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 American River Guard Station?

Yes, pets are allowed at American River Guard Station. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at American River Guard Station?

American River Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at American River Guard Station?

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

American River Guard Station

Q: Can I have a campfire at American River Guard Station?

Fire policies at American River Guard Station: 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 your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.94

44 reviews

10237 US HWY 12

Top 15% in WAWinter

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Washington

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,789 ft

Price

$90/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Naches Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

2,789 ft

Price

$90/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Naches Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

American River Guard Station

$90.00 - $90.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $90.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(509) 653-1401 AFTER HOURS VOICEMAIL (509) 653-1436

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

10237 US HWY 12

American River Guard Station

10237 US HWY 12

Nearby places

Naches: 40 miles. Enumclaw: 66 miles.

Driving directionsFrom Naches, WA travel west on US Highway 12 for 4.4 miles. Continue straight onto SR 410 W for 27.5 miles. Turn left onto Bumping River Rd / Forest Road 1800. Cross the bridge over American River, then turn left onto the American Forks Campground Road. From Enumclaw, WA depart SR 164/Griffin Ave toward Wells St. After ½ mile turn left onto SR 410/Roosevelt Ave. Follow SR 410 approximately 66 miles east to the intersection with Bumping River Road (FR 1800). Turn right onto the American Forks Campground Road. The cabin and access road will be on the left shortly after turning onto the campground road. Up to 4 passenger vehicles may be parked at the guard station site. Additional cars and recreational vehicles may be accommodated in the nearby overflow parking off Bumping Road 1800.

Weather at American River Guard Station

Current alerts(12)

Doors and windows should be locked and all personal items removed upon departure
For questions, call the Naches Ranger District at 509-653-1401, between the hours of 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. If you would like to leave a voicemail after hours, call 509-653-1401
Keep the building and grounds clean to deter squirrel, mice, rats, bears, and other wildlife from area
Learn more about Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Best Time to Camp at American River Guard Station

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and best access — expect warm, mostly dry days in the 70s–80s°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s, making long hikes, mountain biking, fishing and boating most enjoyable. Trails and forest roads are generally snow-free by mid-June, wildflower meadows are still visible early in the season, and the guard station’s wood stove is a nice bonus for cool evenings. Expect moderate-to-busy weekends in July–August; watch for wildfire smoke and possible campfire or road Peak months: July, August, September, June

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best access and reliable warm weather; many activities available in summer months.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About American River Guard Station

American River Guard Station sits along the American River in the foothills of Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, managed by the Naches Ranger District. This rustic cabin rental offers electric hookups, a wood stove, and riverside access for anglers and wildlife watchers. The small site accommodates RV camping alongside the cabin, with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables on-site.

The American River Guard Station provides cabin lodging in a beautiful and rustic setting.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable weather and best access — expect warm, mostly dry days in the 70s–80s°F and cool nights in the 40s–50s, making long hikes, mountain biking, fishing and boating most enjoyable. Trails and forest roads are generally snow-free by mid-June, wildflower meadows are still visible early in the season, and the guard station’s wood stove is a nice bonus for cool evenings. Expect moderate-to-busy weekends in July–August; watch for wildfire smoke and possible campfire or road Peak months: July, August, September, June

Elevation2789 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin sits at 2,789 feet elevation in old-growth forest dominated by Douglas fir, western hemlock, and cedar. The American River runs nearby, offering fishing and water access. The area borders the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas. East of the cabin, the landscape transitions from dense forest to shrub-steppe country. Deer, porcupines, and native fish are common. Reviewers consistently highlight the river's proximity and the surrounding wilderness as major draws.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin can accommodate up to 8 people with various sleeping arrangements, including a queen-size sleeper sofa, full-size bed, and four twin-size beds. It also has a dining table and chairs for up to eight people. Reviews emphasize its rustic nature and the lack of modern amenities. "It's a rustic cabin situated right on American River. There is a lot to love! The location, nearby hiking and adventure, relative remoteness, starry skies at night," remarked one reviewer.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information is available about cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Stay up to 14 consecutive nights during any single visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy of 8 people.

Groups

The cabin is part of a group site with a capacity of 8 people, suitable for small gatherings or family stays.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

Site SizeThe cabin provides adequate space for sleeping and basic living functions, but its overall size is described as small. "Pretty small but cozy," stated one user.

PrivacyPrivacy information is limited, but reviewers noted that the cabin's layout may create challenges for larger groups. "Accommodations for 2 are perfect! Lack of privacy inside would make it challenging for more adults," stated one user.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring additional water, bedding such as mattress covers, and mouse traps.

Need help booking American River Guard Station?

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

The American River Guard Station provides a rustic cabin for visitors seeking a remote yet well-equipped camping experience. It features amenities such as a wood stove, electric light fixtures, electric baseboard heater, queen-size sleeper sofa, full-size bed, and four twin-size beds. Cooking facilities include an electric range, small refrigerator, and kitchen equipped with a coffee maker, pots, dishes, and glassware. Cleaning supplies are available, and visitors must clean the cabin before departure. Outside, there is a picnic table and a campfire ring. The outhouse has been restored, but reviews mention inconsistent maintenance. "Bring more water than you think, unless you can get it from the campground down the way in summer," as stated by a user. Additionally, firewood is sometimes available but cannot be guaranteed.

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Outdoor activities are abundant, including hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and whitewater paddling in the American River and its tributaries. The cabin's proximity to the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas offers extensive exploration opportunities.

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our 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 cabin features an outhouse that reviewers describe as "rustic," with several complaints about maintenance. "The outhouse was terrible. It really needs pumped out," stated one user.

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 your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash services are seasonal; a dumpster is available during summer at the nearby American Forks Campground. Visitors are required to pack out trash during other times of the year.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.9

44 reviews

Mixed Reviews

American River Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for American River Guard Station range from glowing praise for its scenic location and rustic charm to frustrations over poor maintenance and inadequate supplies. The cabin's proximity to the American River and surrounding wilderness is often highlighted as a major draw.

Review Summaries

Based on 44 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the cabin's location by the river, the availability of firewood, and its rustic charm. "Wonderful spot, great cabin – we'll be back," noted one user....

Based on 44 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include poor maintenance of the outhouse, stained or uncomfortable mattresses, lack of adequate heating supplies, and inconsistent communication with the ranger station. "The cabin has not...

Based on 44 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most reviews specifically address the single cabin site and its immediate surroundings. "The cabin is on a pretty good size lot right next to the river," noted one user.

Based on 44 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Recommendations from users include bringing extra firewood, mattress covers, and water. "Bring an axe to chop firewood!" noted one user. Another suggested traps for mice and portable outdoor lights.

Based on 44 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight distinct seasonal experiences. Winter visitors enjoy the cabin's cozy atmosphere and proximity to cross-country skiing trails, though heating supplies can be a concern. Summer...

Based on 44 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Pretty small but cozy, with lots of amenities," said one user. Another noted, "What an outstanding cabin and location!" However, critical reviews included, "Beds are pretty nasty," and "The outhouse...

Based on 44 reviews