Poso Guard Station Cabin
03 reviewsPoso Guard Station Cabin
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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
About this campground
Perched majestically atop a mountain ridge at 4,480 feet, the Poso Guard Station Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness retreat with a rich history. This lovingly restored 1933 fire patrol station seamlessly blends rustic heritage with modern comforts, offering guests a unique opportunity to step back in time while gazing out at breathtaking panoramic vistas. From your private mountain sanctuary in the Giant Sequoia National Monument, watch the sun paint the San Joaquin Valley in golden hues while the majestic silhouette of Tobias Peak stands sentinel against the horizon.
Poso Guard Station Cabin provides a mix of camping types, primarily centered around cabin lodging. Outdoors, the area can accommodate tents and motorhomes, though there are no hookups.
Historical SignificanceStep through the threshold of living history at this meticulously preserved 1933 fire patrol station, where generations of forest guardians once kept vigilant watch over the surrounding wilderness. The cabin's original board-and-batten paneling whispers stories of early fire patrolmen who called this outpost home, scanning the horizon for telltale smoke plumes. Today's thoughtful modern upgrades honor this legacy while ensuring contemporary comfort, creating a perfect blend of yesterday's craftsmanship and today's amenities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather as temperatures sweep from crisp winter mornings in the 20s to sun-drenched summer afternoons reaching the high 90s. This dynamic climate creates an ever-changing canvas of conditions that seasoned mountain travelers know to respect and prepare for. Pack layers and expect the unexpected – mountain weather has a personality all its own, capable of transforming from brilliant sunshine to mysterious fog in mere moments.
ElevationAt 4,480 feet above sea level, this mountain aerie offers a refreshing escape from valley heat and a front-row seat to nature's grand theater. The elevation provides naturally cooler temperatures that invite deep, restful sleep and invigorating morning air that fills your lungs with pine-scented freshness. From this lofty perch, the world unfolds below in a spectacular tapestry of forests, valleys, and distant mountain ranges that seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by a verdant tapestry of pine and oak forests, the cabin sits in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings, where morning mist dances through the trees and evening light filters through ancient branches. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent visits from graceful deer and the thrilling sight of Golden Eagles soaring on thermal currents. Lucky observers might even spot the majestic California condor gliding past on prehistoric wings. The commanding view encompasses the rugged Greenhorn Mountains and the imposing Tobias Peak, crowned by its 8,300-foot lookout tower standing watch over the wilderness.
Geological RegionNestled within the protected splendor of Giant Sequoia National Monument in Sequoia National Forest, this mountain retreat occupies a privileged position among towering pines and ancient oaks. The surrounding landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where the mighty Greenhorn Mountains rise as part of the legendary Sierra Nevada range. From your cabin doorstep, witness the dramatic interplay of forest ecosystems transitioning from oak woodlands to coniferous forests, all while Tobias Peak's commanding presence reminds visitors of the raw power and beauty of California's mountain wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin's accessibility features are not detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe cabin is designed to accommodate up to five people inside; outdoor space is available for tents and motorhomes.
Sites Privacy"The cabin is located in a gated area which makes it very secluded and private." - User review.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay: 3 nights during a visit
- total maximum stay: 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Sleeps five.
Groups
Group camping facilities are not indicated in the authoritative sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov and its contact center.
Cancellation PolicyReservation changes incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior to arrival) forfeit the first night’s fee and a $10 cancellation fee applies.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, horseback riding in summer, and skiing and snowmobiling in winter. Stargazing is a year-round activity. Nearby attractions include the Tobias Fire Lookout and the Trail of 100 Giants within a one-hour drive.
Hiking
Hiking is one of the popular summer activities. Nearby trails include the Trail of 100 Giants, a noted attraction an hour away.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available during the summer months, although specific details about fishing resources are not provided.Biking
Biking is noted as a popular summer activity, but details on biking trails or terrain are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to deer, cattle, Golden Eagles, and occasional condors, providing excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing and snowmobiling.Water Sports
Water sports are not available at this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Outdoor campfires are permitted in the designated fire ring unless fire restrictions are in effect.
Hazards
General hazardsSome user reviews mention issues such as livestock manure near the cabin, biting flies, and ants outdoors. Safety concerns also include potential health hazards from mouse infestations and mold indoors.
Active alertsFire restrictions may be imposed due to dry weather.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and recyclables.
Common complaintsNegative reviews highlight issues such as dirty facilities, mouse infestations, livestock manure near the cabin, and biting flies outdoors.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Bakersfield, California, take Highway 65 north to Highway 155. Turn east on 155 and continue to the Jack Ranch Road. Turn left (north) and travel to the Old Stage Road (M3). Travel through the Balance Rock settlement until you come to a 4-way intersection. The driveway to Poso Cabin is a hard turn back to the left.
From Porterville, travel south on Highway 65 to Ducor. Turn left (east) on Avenue 56 to Fountain Springs. At the 4-way stop, turn right onto Old Stage Road. Travel southeast to the intersection with the Jack Ranch Road. Turn left (north) on M3. Travel through the Balance Rock settlement until you come to a 4-way intersection. The driveway to Poso Cabin is a hard turn back to the left.
The campground appears accessible year-round via paved roads, but the description highlights the need for specific navigation through smaller roads and settlements (e.g., Old Stage Road, Balance Rock).Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Poso Guard Station Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a polarized experience at Poso Guard Station Cabin. Positive sentiments highlight the cabin's location, privacy, and views, while negative reviews cite cleanliness and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
User reviews praise the cabin's beautiful views, secluded location, and privacy. "The sunset was fabulous!" - User review. "The cabin is located in a gated area which makes it very secluded and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints focus on maintenance and cleanliness issues, including dirty floors, mouse droppings, broken screens, and foul odors. "The floors were absolutely filthy and a thick layer of dust covered...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing additional items such as flashlights, lanterns, firewood, and insect repellent. "Guests should bring flashlights and/or lanterns for lighting."
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is favored for hiking and fishing, while winter activities like skiing and snowmobiling are highlighted. Reviews suggest that weather can be extreme, with highs in the 90s during summer and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We had a very amazing stay at Poso Guard Station Cabin. The cabin is very basic and there is not much to say about it." - User review. "DO NOT STAY HERE!!!... This cabin is a potential health hazard...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention unique issues such as mouse droppings and maintenance concerns in campsite 001. "The floors were absolutely filthy...a mouse coming out of the kitchen garbage can" -...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is not discussed in user reviews or authoritative sources.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or related reviews are not available in the provided materials.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025