Warm Springs Guard Station
4.6222 reviews7359 HIGHWAY 21
Warm Springs Guard Station
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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 nightly rate for the cabin is $40 for the entire year. Displayed rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Warm Springs Guard Station, where a beautifully preserved historic cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain retreat. This charming hideaway transforms with the seasons – drive right up during warmer months, or embark on a magical winter journey by ski or snowshoe when snow blankets the landscape. Inside, you'll find the perfect blend of rustic comfort: a crackling wood stove warms the timber walls, while a propane-powered kitchen lets you craft hearty meals after days spent exploring. Though you'll trade electricity for lantern light and may need to haul water in winter, the reward is pure mountain solitude beneath towering pines and dramatic peaks that have watched over this valley for centuries.
The Warm Springs Guard Station offers cabin lodging with basic amenities. It is a unique option within the Boise National Forest.
Historical SignificanceThis isn't just any mountain cabin – it's a living piece of Forest Service history, lovingly restored to showcase its original character right down to the authentic paint colors. Once a seldom-visited outpost for rangers patrolling these remote woodlands, Warm Springs Guard Station now stands as one of the most cherished historic rentals in the U.S. Forest Service collection. Every weathered board and hand-hewn beam tells stories of the dedicated foresters who once called this home, making it a treasured destination for those who appreciate both wilderness adventure and the human heritage of our public lands.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Warm Springs in dramatically different hues. October often brings the first dusting of snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland that can persist through June on higher trails. When snow locks the access road, the cabin becomes a backcountry sanctuary reached only by those willing to strap on skis or snowshoes for the journey. Summer unveils a different magic entirely – wildflowers dot the meadows, wildlife emerges from winter hiding spots, and endless hiking trails beckon through sun-dappled forests. Pack layers and prepare for mountain weather's quick-change artistry, where sunny mornings can yield to afternoon thunderstorms and crisp evenings demand a cozy fire.
ElevationPerched at 4,700 feet where the air turns crisp and pine-scented, the cabin offers a true mountain experience with temperatures that provide blessed relief from summer heat and create a winter wonderland when snow arrives. From this lofty vantage point, dramatic vistas unfold in every direction, while the elevation creates perfect conditions for both alpine adventures and star-filled nights unmarred by lower-elevation haze.
Natural Features and SceneryThe South Fork Payette River sings its ancient song just beyond your doorstep, winding through a narrow valley cradled by soaring peaks that pierce the sky. Majestic Ponderosa pines create natural cathedral spaces throughout the forest, their vanilla-scented bark and towering crowns providing shelter for an abundance of wildlife. This pristine ecosystem serves as crucial winter range for herds of deer and elk, while summer visitors might glimpse black bears foraging in berry patches. Year-round, the trees come alive with birdsong – from the haunting calls of great horned owls to the cheerful chatter of mountain chickadees.
Geological RegionWarm Springs Guard Station sits in nature's perfect amphitheater – a narrow mountain valley carved over millennia by the persistent flow of the South Fork Payette River. At 4,700 feet, steep mountain walls rise dramatically on either side, their ancient granite faces telling geological stories millions of years in the making. The surrounding forest of towering Ponderosa pines has adapted perfectly to this high-elevation environment, creating vital habitat that supports migrating elk and deer through harsh winters. During summer months, lucky visitors might spot black bears traversing the slopes, while the unique geography creates microclimates that support diverse plant and animal communities found nowhere else in the region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeSuitable for up to 6 individuals; includes beds and limited indoor space.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin’s secluded location in a narrow mountain valley provides a high level of privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests should bring their own axe for firewood, additional lighting for winter stays, and outdoor equipment suitable for snow travel. The cabin is ideal for families and groups seeking privacy and rustic charm.
Best CampsitesSite 001 Loop Warm.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six guests are allowed per reservation.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin site (Site 001, Loop Warm) with adjacent barn for firewood and outhouse.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Accessible by car from mid-April to mid-December; access by snowshoes or cross-country skis is required from December 15 to April 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 14 days before the arrival date are subject to a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations made within 14 days of arrival also forfeit the first night's fees. No-show fees include a $20 charge and forfeiture of the first night's 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational activities are available throughout the year, including hiking, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The Bonneville Hot Springs and the South Fork Payette River are key attractions.
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails lead to Bonneville Hot Springs. Winter access to the springs is possible via snowshoeing or skiing. The distance from the cabin to the springs is approximately 2 miles (Theodore H).Fishing
The South Fork Payette River offers trout fishing opportunities. The river’s turquoise pools and scenic surroundings are frequently noted as highlights.Swimming
Swimming is available in the South Fork Payette River, near the cabin and further downstream.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to deer, elk, black bears, and a variety of bird species. Winter visitors may see deer and elk in their wintering areas.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities. The area around the cabin becomes a "playground" for these sports during snowy months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water activities like fishing and swimming are available in the South Fork Payette River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted only in designated metal rings. Use of candles is discouraged due to fire hazards.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters (bears in summer). Winter travel hazards including deep snow and unplowed roads. Guests reported incidents such as rotted gates causing injury.
Active alertsRoad closures from December 15 to April 15. Snow may limit access from October through June.
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain
Precipitation: 2.4%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 45%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.1 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (2.40% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain
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 not explicitly stated; users are advised to contact the Lowman Ranger Station at 208-259-3361 for emergency-related inquiries. Lowman is the nearest populated area.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingGuests must bring garbage bags and pack out all trash. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the South Fork Payette River with access to turquoise pools and scenic river edges.
Common complaintsWood supply issues—firewood not chopped and insufficient for extended use. Some guests expressed concerns about outdated facilities, such as pots and pans and missing equipment like can openers.
Campground Map
7359 HIGHWAY 21
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take State Highway 21 northeast 75 miles to Lowman, Idaho. Continue on Highway 21 another 18 miles to milepost 91.2. Turn left on Forest Road 025RC and continue 1.5 miles to cabin when road is open to motorized use. In the winter, park in the plowed parking lot on the left at milepost 91.2 and hike/snowshoe/ski the remaining distance. From Banks, Idaho, turn right off Highway 55 onto Highway 17, drive 40 miles to Lowman. Turn left onto Highway 21 and go approximately 18 miles east to milepost 91.2. Turn left on Forest Road 025RC and continue 1.5 miles to cabin when road is open to motorized use. In the winter, park in the plowed parking lot on the left at milepost 91.2 and hike/snowshoe/ski the remaining distance.
Accessible by car from mid-April through mid-December. During winter, access is only possible via snowshoes or cross-country skis. Road closures occur from December 15 to April 15 due to snow conditions. Snow can start in October, and visitors are advised to check local weather or contact the Lowman Ranger Station at 208-259-3361 for updated road conditions.Nearby places
Lowman (approximately 18 miles east)
Nearby supplies
Lowman, Idaho, approximately 18 miles east, is the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.6
22 reviews
Warm Springs Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews generally praise the cabin’s charm, cleanliness, and amenities, including a wood stove, propane fridge, and nearby natural attractions. Winter stays are popular for their secluded atmosphere. Complaints primarily focus on firewood availability and maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Frequent mentions of the cabin’s rustic charm, convenience of amenities (e.g., wood stove, propane fridge), and proximity to Bonneville Hot Springs. Reviewers also appreciate the peaceful setting and...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Firewood availability and quality are recurring issues. Some guests noted that the provided axes were dull and required bringing their own. A notable safety concern involved a guest being injured by...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own axe for splitting wood and additional lighting for winter stays, as there is no electricity. A reviewer mentions the absence of a can opener, so consider bringing one. Verify firewood...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight the cabin’s cozy atmosphere and opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing. Summer visitors enjoy hiking and access to the river. Firewood issues are more critical during...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"One of the nicest forest rental cabins you're going to find. It even has a gas-powered fridge!" (Kendra Parris). "Great cabin, clean, convenient amenities." (Casey McMullen). "This is the 3rd time...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews pertain to the single cabin (site 001). Positive reviews emphasize its charm and cleanliness, while complaints focus on firewood and minor maintenance issues.
Based on 22 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility issues were found.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets must be under control at all times. No specific user feedback addresses pet-related experiences.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025