Fitton Guard Station Cabin
4.6514 reviewsRio Grande National Forest, 13308 US Highway 160, Del Norte, CO, 81132, USA
Fitton Guard Station Cabin
$25.00 - $25.00 / 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
Booking a stay costs $25 per night during peak season (June 1 - October 31). Additional fees may apply for reservation changes ($10 fee) and cancellations ($10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before check-in).
About this campground
Perched high in the Colorado wilderness, Fitton Guard Station Cabin offers an authentic mountain escape where modern conveniences fade into the background. This rustic retreat welcomes up to four adventurers with cozy bunk beds and a wood-burning cook stove that fills the cabin with warmth and the aroma of mountain meals. Complete with a vault toilet and an adjacent barn for equestrian companions, the cabin sits alongside the gentle waters of Burro Creek, serving as your gateway to miles of scenic backcountry trails and unforgettable alpine experiences.
Fitton Guard Station Cabin offers a unique camping experience with a rustic cabin that sleeps up to four people. It is ideal for those seeking solitude and a backcountry environment.
Historical SignificanceSteeped in the heritage of Colorado's ranching past, Fitton Guard Station continues to serve modern adventurers while honoring its historical roots. The property's barn, thoughtfully renovated in 2010, stands as a testament to the area's equestrian traditions. Nearby, remnants of the region's grazing history dot the landscape, including the evocatively named Off Cow Camp, where generations of ranchers once tended their herds in these high mountain pastures.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Fitton Guard Station into a snow-draped wonderland, where access becomes an adventure in itself and the landscape takes on a pristine, otherworldly beauty. As summer arrives, the high country reveals its gentler side with crystalline skies and comfortable temperatures that beckon hikers, riders, and explorers outdoors. Previous guests have raved about the experience, with one noting: "The views are amazing, the ATV trail is fun and the cabin fit our style of 'roughing it' perfectly." Each season paints the surrounding wilderness in dramatically different hues, ensuring no two visits are ever quite the same.
ElevationAt 10,600 feet above sea level, Fitton Guard Station places you firmly in Colorado's high country, where the air is crisp, thin, and invigorating. This lofty perch offers spectacular vistas but demands respect—visitors should take time to acclimate to the altitude, staying hydrated and moving at a measured pace as their bodies adjust to the rarefied mountain air. The elevation creates a unique environment where summer wildflowers bloom later, autumn colors arrive earlier, and the night sky seems close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin nestles within a tapestry of mountain ecosystems, where golden meadows give way to shimmering aspen groves and dense stands of spruce and fir. To the southeast, Bennett Peak commands the horizon at 13,200 feet, its summit catching the first light of dawn and the last rays of sunset. Wildlife thrives in this diverse habitat—elk bugle across the meadows in autumn, deer browse at forest edges, and the observant visitor might spot everything from soaring raptors to scurrying pikas. Burro Creek meanders nearby, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your mountain retreat.
Geological RegionFitton Guard Station occupies a spectacular high-elevation meadow system carved by ancient glaciers and shaped by millennia of mountain weather. At 10,600 feet, the cabin sits in a natural bowl where Burro Creek has carved its patient path through the landscape. The surrounding terrain showcases Colorado's geological diversity—from the gentle meadows that carpet the valley floor to the dramatic aspen-covered hillsides and the dark spruce-fir forests that climb toward treeline. Dominating the southeastern horizon, Bennett Peak's 13,200-foot summit serves as a constant reminder of the powerful forces that sculpted this remarkable alpine environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is located in a high-elevation meadow at 10,600 feet. Accessibility is challenging, particularly during winter when a six-mile hike is required due to snow-covered trails.
Sites SizeSmall, rustic cabin that accommodates up to four guests with two bunk beds.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers high privacy due to its secluded location in a meadow surrounded by aspen groves and spruce/fir forests.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider bringing your own potable water and firewood. "Just bring clothes, sleeping bag, food and water and you should be set." - David Patterson
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in details provided in confirmation email.
Check-out
Standard check-out details provided in confirmation email.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights per visit and 14 nights total within a rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Four guests (two bunk beds provided).
Groups
This facility does not offer designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with a barn, fire ring, pit toilet, and small covered porch.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 1 to October 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not applicable as reservations are required for this cabin.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 fee, plus forfeiture of the first night's fee. Late cancellations for one-night reservations forfeit the entire amount paid.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The area surrounding Fitton Guard Station Cabin is rich in outdoor recreation opportunities. Activities include hunting, hiking, off-highway vehicle (OHV) riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, backcountry skiing, horseback riding, and fishing. "The views are amazing, the ATV trail is fun, and the cabin fit our style of 'roughing it' perfectly," summarized one reviewer. Another noted, "This trail is EPIC! Some of the best views I have ever seen."
Hiking
The nearby hiking trails vary in difficulty and are highly praised for their scenic beauty. Trails also connect to OHV routes. One user noted, 'This trail is epic! Some of the best views I have ever seen. Be careful, though, as there are downed trees and water crossings.'Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby streams. Specific details about fish species or regulations are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is popular in the area, with trails varying in difficulty and connecting to OHV routes.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, big cats, and bears. One reviewer noted, 'Ample wildlife including moose, big cats, and bear!'Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling and backcountry skiing. However, access to the cabin in winter is difficult, requiring a six-mile hike.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood must be gathered locally.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area. Downed trees and snow can block trails, creating difficult access during winter and spring.
Weather forecast
53
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Divide Ranger District, Phone: 719-657-3321. Additional emergency services are located in Del Norte, CO.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 - October 31
Trash and recyclingNo detailed information about trash and recycling facilities is provided. However, users are advised to keep the area clean, especially due to the presence of bears.
Proximity to water featuresBurro Creek flows near the cabin, providing a water source. All natural water should be treated before use.
Common complaintsAccess difficulties during winter and spring due to snow and downed trees are recurring issues. "It was quite the experience to even get to the cabin!" - Kirk Bode
HostContact Divide Ranger District at 719-657-3321.
Campground Map
Rio Grande National Forest, 13308 US Highway 160, Del Norte, CO, 81132, USA
Driving directionsFrom the west side of the town of Del Norte, head south on County Road 14 for 12 miles to the lower Burro Creek Trailhead. The cabin is 6 miles upstream from this trailhead and 1.5 miles from the upper trailhead. The upper trailhead is located 28 miles from the town of Del Norte and is accessed by Forest Service Roads 329 and 329.1C.
Accessibility varies by season. During winter, the access is considered difficult and involves a 6-mile hike from the bottom trailhead. Snow and muddy conditions can affect access.Nearby places
Del Norte, CO (12 miles from lower trailhead
28 miles from upper trailhead)
Nearby supplies
Supplies may be purchased in Del Norte, CO, approximately 12 miles from the lower trailhead.
Camper Reviews
4.7
14 reviews
Fitton Guard Station Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's secluded location, stunning natural beauty, and rustic charm. Many reviewers praised the recreational opportunities and the cabin's basic but sufficient amenities. Challenges such as difficult access and the need to pack in supplies were common themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include the scenic location, quiet solitude, and a range of outdoor activities. Reviewers appreciated the cabin's rustic amenities, with one saying, 'The wood-burning stove was luxurious...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users reported difficult access, particularly during winter or after heavy snow. One reviewer remarked, 'It was difficult to get to by foot... it took an hour plus with gear, and we had to make...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing a saw and axe for trail obstructions, packing in enough supplies, and preparing for colder weather at high elevations. One user advised, 'If you don't know how to operate a wood...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
In winter, access is extremely challenging due to snow-covered trails. Summer and early fall are ideal seasons for enjoying the area's natural beauty and recreational activities. One reviewer said,...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The night sky and stars were so beautiful that it was mesmerizing.' 2. 'This is a great hike-in Forest Service cabin for a somewhat primitive experience.' 3. 'The views are amazing, the ATV trail...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to this cabin frequently mention its rustic charm and the opportunity for solitude. One reviewer noted, 'The cabin is old and rustic but has quite a few supplies.' The nearby Off Cow...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features or experiences by users with disabilities.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed inside the cabin, but no specific reviews about pets were provided.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025