Crocker Guard Station
4.2810 reviewsPLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 7, BLAIRSDEN, CA 96103, USA
Crocker Guard Station
$135.00 - $135.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
Peak season rates are $135 per night for the cabin, which includes propane lighting, cook stove, and heater. No additional charges for campsite use adjacent to the guard station.
About this campground
Step back in time at Crocker Guard Station, where a century of forest service history meets the untamed beauty of the Eastern Sierra Nevada. This enchanting retreat, perched at 5,700 feet elevation, invites you to experience both heritage and wilderness in perfect harmony. The original 1912 cabin stands as a testament to early forest rangers, while the adjacent 10-unit campground offers modern adventurers free access to this mountain sanctuary.
Crocker Guard Station offers a blend of lodging and camping options. The main facility is a historic cabin accommodating up to 16 guests. Adjacent to the station is a 10-unit campground that supports traditional camping activities and is free of charge.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls have witnessed over a century of Sierra Nevada history. Built in 1912 as a home for the region's first forest rangers, Crocker Guard Station later evolved into a vital fire station, protecting these precious woodlands until the 1980s. Today, it stands as a living museum where visitors can touch the very timbers that sheltered generations of forest guardians.
Weather and SeasonsSummer and early fall transform Crocker into an outdoor paradise, with warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. The mountain climate delivers refreshing temperatures even during peak summer, though savvy visitors come prepared for nature's tiny aviators—mosquitoes can make appearances when the meadow conditions turn dewy and lush.
ElevationAt 5,700 feet, Crocker occupies that sweet spot of mountain elevation where the air stays crisp without being thin, and summer temperatures remain delightfully cool. This altitude blessing means comfortable days for hiking and refreshing nights that practically demand a sleeping bag and hot cocoa.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture a hidden meadow where quaking aspens dance in the mountain breeze, their leaves creating nature's own wind chimes. Crocker Guard Station rests in this intimate clearing, embraced by towering pines that stand like ancient sentinels. The interplay of meadow grasses, shimmering aspen groves, and evergreen forests creates a living tapestry that shifts with every season and every hour of sunlight.
Geological RegionThe Eastern Sierra Nevada reveals its gentler side at Crocker, where dramatic granite peaks give way to intimate forest pockets. This unique landscape weaves together verdant meadows that bloom with wildflowers, groves of aspens that paint the fall in gold, and pine forests that whisper with the winds of centuries past. It's a geological sweet spot where the high country meets the forest floor.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe house and amenities are described as accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. "Easy in, easy out for my wheelchair-bound brother and I."
Sites SizeThe campground includes 10 units and is adjacent to the Guard Station. Sites appear to be standard-sized based on the description of the general campground.
Sites PrivacyThe Guard Station is situated near a meadow and surrounded by aspen groves and pine trees, offering a good degree of natural seclusion and privacy.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring mosquito repellent; fitted twin sheets for slippery mattresses; adequate drinking water as none is provided.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsites mentioned as best; the cabin is the most notable feature.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- The cabin sleeps 10 with 10 twin beds
- maximum occupancy is 16 guests.
Groups
No specific group site details are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is adjacent to a 10-unit campground with tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 23, 2025, to October 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov (online, mobile app, and contact center).
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; reservations are required for the cabin.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations more than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days) forfeit $10 and the first night's fee. No refund for cancellations on the start date.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Crocker Guard Station and its nearby areas offer a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The proximity to Lake Davis, only five miles away, further enhances the options for outdoor enthusiasts. Hunting is also popular during the fall season.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available both near the Guard Station and in the surrounding natural areas. Noteworthy mentions include the Crocker Mountain trail. 'Make some time to hike up to Crocker Mountain. You can drive most of the way there until the brush gets too thick. The view is breathtaking!'Fishing
Fishing is available at Lake Davis, located three miles from the campground. Specific details about the types of fish or fishing conditions are not provided.Swimming
Swimming is available at Lake Davis, about five miles away, though one user noted they were not able to swim due to unspecified conditions.Biking
Biking is listed as an option near Lake Davis and its surroundings, which are described as 'nice for bike rides' by a user.Boating
Boating activities are available at Lake Davis. Specific types of boating or facilities are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding meadow, aspen groves, and pine forest provide habitats for nesting birds, lizards, wasps, field mice, and gophers. 'The cabin is set on the edge of a meadow; therefore, it is a sanctuary for nesting birds, lizards, wasps, field mice, and gophers.'Winter Activities
One user mentioned hiking in snow near Long Lake, which was described as 'extremely pretty.'Water Sports
Mentioned activities include fishing, boating, and swimming at Lake Davis, about five miles away.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No campfires allowed at the guard station but permitted at the adjacent campground.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes in summer; presence of wildlife, including coyotes and evidence of bears. Guests are advised to store food securely.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 58%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Beckwourth Ranger District (call: (530) 836-2575 for facility-specific information); nearest hospital or urgent care likely in Portola, CA.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - October 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out their trash and bring trash bags. 'Visitors are responsible for cleaning the house, packing out trash, and locking up before departure.'
Proximity to water featuresLake Davis Recreation Area is located within three miles and offers fishing, boating, and other water activities.
Common complaintsSome complaints about difficulty contacting staff for access codes. Mention of non-potable water as a downside.
HostCaretaker contacts, Laurel and Ken, are noted as helpful, but caretaking staff turnover has been reported.
Campground Map
PLUMAS NATIONAL FOREST - BECKWOURTH RANGER DISTRICT, PO BOX 7, BLAIRSDEN, CA 96103, USA
Driving directionsFrom Portola, CA, travel east on Highway 70 for five miles to Beckwourth, CA. Travel north on County Road 111 (Beckwourth-Genesee Road) for six miles. Crocker Guard Station is on the left.
Accessible via paved roads with a final approach on County Road 111 (Beckwourth-Genesee Road). Roads are suitable for regular vehicles, but the dirt road leading to Lake Davis may be narrow.Nearby places
Portola, CA: 10 miles (~20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
J&J's Resort Store is 3 miles away via the dirt road towards Lake Davis
additional stores, services, and restaurants in Portola, CA, 10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
10 reviews
Crocker Guard Station is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful, relaxing, and scenic environment of Crocker Guard Station. The cabin's rustic charm, accessibility, and proximity to nearby recreational activities are appreciated, though some challenges include non-potable water and occasional difficulties in obtaining access codes.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes the station's serene location, beautiful meadow views, well-maintained facilities, and accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges. Users appreciated the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with obtaining access codes ('Got a voicemail to call for a code to the cabin. Called back 5-10 times, leaving voicemails, never got code') and the presence of mosquitoes...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Suggestions from users include bringing your own drinking water, propane, and bug spray during the summer. One user advises bringing fitted twin sheets for the beds. Another recommends hiking to...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During summer, mosquitoes can be a concern due to the meadow location. Fall offers opportunities for hunting, while winter activities like hiking in snow were praised for their beauty. The cabin's...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Such a beautiful meadow with tons of bumble bees and butterflies.'
- 'Very peaceful and quiet, comfortable beds, amazing night sky views.'
- 'The cabin is beautifully restored with plenty of room...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific issues include a user mentioning difficulty with access codes and another praising the rocking chair on the cabin porch for its views of aspen trees. Vault toilets received positive...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is positively noted, with one user stating, 'Easy in easy out for my wheelchair bound brother and I.'
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the cabin, but users caution to clean up after pets and be mindful of potential wildlife interactions, such as coyotes.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025