Upper Crossing Guard Station
4.1319 reviews46525 ST HWY 114
Upper Crossing Guard Station
$75.00 - $75.00 / 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
Cabin nightly rate is $75.00 per night during the peak season (January 1 to December 31). Additional reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Perched at a breathtaking 8,400 feet near the Continental Divide, Upper Crossing Guard Station invites adventurers to step back in time within its historic two-bedroom cabin walls. This year-round mountain retreat in the heart of Rio Grande National Forest seamlessly blends rustic charm with endless opportunities for alpine exploration and peaceful mountain solitude.
Upper Crossing Guard Station offers cabin lodging with modern amenities, providing a comfortable retreat in a remote forest location. Primitive camping is not available.
Historical SignificanceStep through the doorway of history at this former headquarters of the Cochetopa National Forest, where weathered walls whisper tales of forest rangers past. Ancient graffiti etched by stagecoach travelers marks the passage of time along nearby routes, while the surrounding lands echo with memories of the Ute people who once traversed these sacred mountain paths.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the raw beauty of Colorado's high country climate, where crisp, dry mountain air fills your lungs and afternoon thunderstorms paint dramatic skies across summer days. Winter transforms this landscape into a snow-draped wonderland, though travelers should prepare for frigid temperatures and potential access challenges when nature blankets the roads in white.
ElevationAt 8,400 feet above sea level, this mountain sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from summer heat, where thin air carries the scent of pine and wildflowers. Visitors should allow time to acclimate to the altitude, as the elevated perch rewards those who adjust with crystalline skies and temperatures that remain pleasantly cool even on the warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere two mountain creeks converge in a symphony of rushing water, Upper Crossing Guard Station stands sentinel among towering peaks and verdant forests. From your cabin door, gaze across a tapestry of scenic ranch lands stretching toward the Continental Divide, while diverse woodlands beckon with hidden streams and wildlife corridors that showcase the untamed beauty of Colorado's high country.
Geological RegionNestled in the geological wonderland of Rio Grande National Forest, this mountain escape sits at the doorstep of the Continental Divide's ancient backbone. Majestic peaks rise from a landscape sculpted by millennia of wind and water, where pristine streams carve through diverse forest ecosystems and pastoral ranch lands create a stunning contrast against the rugged mountain terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is wheelchair-friendly, with accessible amenities like an indoor bathroom and shower. 'The ranger station worked very well for handicap accessible needs,' a user commented.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself provides spacious lodging for family groups or small parties. It is described as 'comfortable and roomy, with bunk beds that sleep six or more.'
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, situated about a mile off the highway. Multiple reviewers noted the peaceful solitude and isolation from urban noise and light pollution.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring cleaning supplies, tools for minor repairs, and a bottle of bleach, as reviews describe cleanliness issues. Avoid leaving food out to prevent attracting mice/rats.
Best CampsitesUpper Crossing Guard Station (UCGS01) for its secluded and scenic location.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 9 guests are allowed.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin setup with bunk beds accommodating up to nine guests.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityPublic access only via directions provided; no first-come, first-served availability explicitly stated.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made before the arrival date; a $10 cancellation fee applies, with late cancellations incurring additional penalties such as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.
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
Showers
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests at the Upper Crossing Guard Station can engage in an array of year-round recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and winter sports like snowshoeing and snowmobiling.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible from the cabin, catering to all skill levels. 'There are several hiking trails you can take from the cabin - for all skill levels and many more nearby on BLM land,' a reviewer noted.Fishing
The cabin sits at the confluence of two creeks offering excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow, cutthroat, brown, and brook trout. 'Fishing on the Saguache River and Sheeps Creek by the cabin is not a disappointment!' remarked a guest.Biking
Although not detailed in authoritative sources, user reviews suggest nearby mountain biking trails as part of the overall recreational experience.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich with wildlife, including sightings of mice, pac rats, and larger mammals. 'Lots of wildlife in the area,' a user mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter sports include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Access to the cabin may require specialized winter gear during snowy months.Water Sports
Fishing is the primary water-related activity available at this site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits; do not burn garbage.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity mentioned. Winter conditions may require snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 10.7 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
Saguache Ranger District Office (Phone: 719-655-2547); No explicit details on other emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all garbage and food to avoid attracting bears. Burning garbage in the fire pit is prohibited.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near the confluence of two creeks, providing fishing opportunities for trout species.
Common complaintsMultiple user reviews mentioned issues with cleanliness, maintenance neglect, and presence of mice/rats.
HostSaguache Ranger District oversees the cabin, and visitors may encounter routine checks by forest employees.
Campground Map
46525 ST HWY 114
Driving directionsFrom Saguache, take Highway 114 west for approximately 22 miles. The turnoff for the Guard Station is 1 mile past County Road NN14. From Gunnison, remain on Highway 114 until approximately 4 miles past the Buffalo Pass Campground entrance. The exit to the station is between mile marker 39 and 40. Look for the Upper Crossing sign on the highway. Turn east for a short distance until the road ends in a "T". Turn right and go .5 mile. The cabin will be on the left. During the winter, guests may need to snowmobile, snowshoe, or ski .5 miles from the nearest maintained road to access the cabin.
Accessible year-round via CO Highway 114. The brief dirt road leading to the cabin is the old stagecoach route. Winter access may require snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skis due to snow coverage.Nearby places
Saguache (22 miles), Gunnison (approx. 26 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and supplies available in Saguache, approximately 22 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.1
19 reviews
Upper Crossing Guard Station is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, the cabin is praised for its scenic and secluded location but criticized for maintenance and cleanliness issues. Reviews highlight the cabin's potential for peaceful solitude and its accessibility features.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the quiet and isolated setting, accessibility for handicapped guests, and proximity to outdoor activities. One reviewer noted, 'The cabin worked very well for handicap accessible...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Maintenance concerns include broken windows, worn furnishings, mouse activity, and poor cleanliness upon arrival. 'Cabin hasn't been kept up' and 'Toilet needed a new float and thus we had to refill...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cleaning supplies, including bleach, and a toolkit for minor repairs. 'If you visit, bring a tool kit if you're handy,' one guest suggested. Additionally, pack out all trash and avoid leaving...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months offer hiking and fishing while winter months are ideal for snow sports. Rain and thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons, as noted by one user: 'It rained every day in the...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'One of my favorites no matter what time of year I've gone.' - Dan K.
2. 'Beautiful cabin in a very serene setting.' - Janet C.
3. 'I wish they would change the availability to more than 3...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site UCGS01 is the primary cabin, praised for its location but criticized for maintenance. 'The location by far is the best and only attribute worth noting,' one user remarked.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
Multiple reviewers noted accessibility features, such as easy bathroom access and proximity to the highway. The cabin 'worked very well for handicap accessible needs' and is 'great for older & more...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be controlled and kept off furniture. 'My dog seemed comfortable,' remarked a user.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025