Johnson Creek Guard Station
4.7518 reviewsPO Box 696, Cascade, ID, 83611, USA
Johnson Creek Guard Station
$50.00 - $50.00 / 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
The cabin reservation fee is $50 per night during peak season. This fee may not include taxes or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Johnson Creek Guard Station, where a beautifully preserved 1922 forest service cabin seamlessly blends historic charm with modern comfort. This secluded mountain retreat surprises visitors with electricity, indoor plumbing, and a fully equipped kitchen—rare luxuries in such a remote setting. Perfect for families and groups who dream of experiencing the authentic wilderness lifestyle without sacrificing essential conveniences, this historic gem offers the best of both worlds in the heart of the Idaho mountains.
Johnson Creek Guard Station offers a unique cabin rental experience, combining rustic charm with modern amenities. Tent camping, RV sites, or group camping are explicitly not allowed.
Historical SignificanceBuilt in 1922 when forest rangers needed remote outposts to protect America's wilderness, this authentic guard station has witnessed nearly a century of forest service history. Today, it stands as a living museum within the Boise National Forest, its weathered logs telling stories of early conservation efforts. Just down the mountain, the quirky town of Yellow Pine keeps frontier spirit alive with its famous Yellow Pine Music & Harmonica Festival each August, where visitors can experience genuine Idaho mountain culture and toe-tapping entertainment.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain hideaway into an outdoor paradise, with June through September bringing brilliant sunshine and temperatures that dance between comfortable 84°F afternoons and crisp 55°F evenings perfect for campfire stories. The reliably dry conditions and crystal-clear skies create ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and stargazing. As winter approaches, the cabin becomes more challenging to reach as snow blankets the access roads, turning this retreat into a true backcountry adventure for those properly equipped.
ElevationPerched high in the mountainous terrain of the Boise National Forest, the guard station offers that perfect alpine setting where the air feels cleaner, the stars shine brighter, and everyday worries seem to disappear with the valley fog below.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in an enchanting mountain meadow where Johnson Creek babbles through wildflower-dotted grasses, the cabin sits like a storybook cottage amid towering pines. Morning mist often reveals grazing deer in the meadow, while lucky visitors might spot majestic elk at dusk or catch sight of a soaring bald eagle overhead. The surrounding forest harbors black bears and the occasional moose, reminding guests they're sharing this pristine wilderness with its original inhabitants. The creek itself provides a natural soundtrack and excellent opportunities for quiet reflection or adventurous exploration.
Geological RegionJohnson Creek Guard Station occupies a stunning mountain meadow carved by centuries of flowing water, where Johnson Creek winds its way toward its eventual meeting with the legendary South Fork Salmon River. Surrounded by dense pine forests that carpet the ancient mountains, this geological wonderland showcases the raw beauty of Idaho's rugged interior, where volcanic origins and glacial sculpting have created a landscape of dramatic contrasts and hidden valleys.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible by most vehicles, although trailers are not recommended due to challenging road conditions. The cabin itself is equipped with modern amenities, but no specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 8 guests, with enough outdoor space for activities. The interior includes a main bedroom and an upstairs loft.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin provides a private space surrounded by dense pine forests and mountain slopes, offering seclusion and natural beauty.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 001 provides modern amenities including electricity, running water, and indoor plumbing. Families recommend bringing additional bedding and mosquito repellents.
Best CampsitesThe single cabin is the main feature of the campground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum 4 nights per visit and per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unlimited guests allowed within the cabin's capacity.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this site.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with surrounding meadow.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 24 through September 30. Peak season includes early June to late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival for a refund minus fees. $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees are non-refundable. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior for cabins) will also forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations incur a $10 fee unless adding/removing nights or switching campsites of the same type. No changes can be made on the day of check-in.
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
WiFi
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Johnson Creek Guard Station offers a wide range of recreational activities. From hiking trails leading into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness to fishing opportunities in Johnson Creek and South Fork Salmon River, there is plenty to explore. Berry picking, hunting, and wildlife viewing are seasonal activities, and the nearby Yellow Pine community hosts an annual music festival.
Hiking
Multiple trailheads into the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness are accessible, offering non-motorized trails for hikers, bikers, and equestrians. Reviews praise the scenic beauty and accessibility of these trails.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in Johnson Creek and South Fork Salmon River. A reviewer noted catching trout and salmon at the nearby Ice Hole Campground.Biking
The trails near the cabin are suitable for mountain biking, providing a mix of terrain and scenic views.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife watchers can spot deer, elk, bear, and moose in the area. Bald eagles are frequently seen overhead.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not addressed, but road access may be impacted by snow as noted in the directions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Small campfires allowed in designated fire rings; large bonfires prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and chipmunks. Mosquitoes and ants are prevalent. The cabin has limited knee space in the bathroom due to proximity to the water heater.
Active alertsSeasonal road closures due to snow; Warm Lake Summit may be inaccessible during winter.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.7 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
Emergency services are available at Cascade District Office in Cascade, ID. This includes the nearest ranger station and likely local healthcare facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesEarly June to late September.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out their own trash. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are provided.
Proximity to water featuresNearby Johnson Creek offers fishing opportunities. Ice Hole Campground across the street is recommended for better swimming and fishing access.
Common complaintsReviews mention high air traffic overhead, outdated appliances, and pest issues, including chipmunks and bats. The cabin's bathroom design is noted as inconvenient.
HostHosts are praised for their helpfulness and maintenance of the cabin. One review highlights: 'Wonderful camping and camp hosts.'
Campground Map
PO Box 696, Cascade, ID, 83611, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cascade, ID, head north on ID-55/Main Street toward McCall, ID. Turn right/east on FH-22/Warm Lake Road. Stay on this road for about 35 miles. Turn left/north on Road 413/Johnson Creek Road. Stay on this road for about 22 miles. The cabin sits on the right/east side of the road. Look for the Forest Service sign. This is good unpaved road, but there are a few narrow and steep sections with few pull-outs, and there may be some washboard sections. Use low gears. Some sections of the road are steep. Note Warm Lake Summit can be closed due to snow. If so, take FS 474 north to FH48, head east and then south on Johnson Creek Road. For additional information, the Cascade District Office is located in Cascade on the north end of town off Highway 55 on the right side of the road. Office hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed on federal holidays.
The campground is accessible by dirt and gravel roads. While most vehicles can access the site, trailers are not recommended. Some sections of the road are narrow, steep, and may have washboard surfaces. Warm Lake Summit is seasonally closed due to snow.Nearby places
Cascade (approx. 57 miles, 1.5 hours)
Yellow Pine (few miles north, exact distance not specified)
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies are available in the nearby community of Yellow Pine. The store sells animal pelts and a small selection of essentials. Groceries and camping supplies may be found in Cascade, ID, approximately 57 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
18 reviews
Johnson Creek Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the cabin's amenities, scenic location, and proximity to trailheads and the river. Common complaints include early morning air traffic, wildlife disturbances such as chipmunks and bats, and the cramped bathroom layout.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
The cabin's amenities, including electricity, running water, and modern bathroom facilities, are frequently praised. Visitors also appreciate the scenic beauty, wildlife, and proximity to...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the cramped toilet setup, air traffic disturbances over the cabin, mosquitoes, wildlife intrusions (chipmunks and bats), and outdated or missing amenities like a coffee machine and...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing flashlights, garbage bags, bedding, and towels. Reviewers also advise reading the cabin's logbook for activity suggestions and visiting nearby attractions like Ice Hole...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season runs from early June to late September. Reviews suggest booking in advance, as high demand limits availability. Summer stays are punctuated by lively air traffic and wildlife activity.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cabin itself is really pretty but could use some upgrades and a really good cleaning." - Sheila H.
"Wonderful experience, well equipped cabin with plenty of amenities." - Marc G.
"Great cabin,...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 reviews highlight the great amenities, but mention issues with wildlife intrusions like bats and chipmunks. Guests also note the cramped toilet setup.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews mention accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly mentioned as allowed or prohibited, and user reviews provide no clarity on pet policies or experiences.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025