Clear Creek Guard Station
4.486 reviews322 N 4TH STREET, MONTPELIER, ID 83254, USA
Clear Creek Guard Station
$35.00 - $35.00 / 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
Facility offers peak season rates at $35 per night for the cabin. Reservation and service fees may apply based on method of booking.
About this campground
Nestled at 6,500 feet among whispering aspens and towering conifers, Clear Creek Guard Station invites adventurers into its cozy A-frame embrace. This 1980-built mountain retreat offers an authentic backcountry experience with three single beds, a warming wood stove, and essential amenities including an outhouse, picnic table, and campfire ring. Here, you'll create your own mountain memories while bringing your water, bedding, and cooking supplies for a true off-grid escape where you pack out what you pack in.
The Clear Creek Guard Station offers unique accommodations including a main cabin and additional nearby cabins, emphasizing a rustic and remote camping experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Forest Service history at this storied site, which has served as an administrative outpost since 1910. The current A-frame structure, crafted by the dedicated hands of the Young Adult Conservation Corps in 1980, stands as a testament to conservation efforts and continues to shelter modern-day adventurers seeking connection with the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the cabin's dual personality as seasons transform the landscape around you. Winter blankets the area in pristine snow under crystalline skies, creating a wonderland for snowmobilers and cross-country skiing enthusiasts. When summer arrives, warm sunshine and dry mountain air beckon hikers and nature lovers to explore the surrounding wilderness under endless blue skies.
ElevationPerched at 6,500 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, the cabin offers a true mountain experience. At this elevation, you'll wake to cool mornings year-round and enjoy sweeping vistas that stretch across the rugged peaks, while the altitude provides natural air conditioning even on summer's warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere Crow Creek meets Clear Creek, this cabin stands sentinel at the edge of a peaceful meadow, surrounded by a tapestry of evergreens and quaking aspens. The rugged mountain terrain serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife characters - from majestic elk and moose to elusive mountain lions and grizzly bears. Black bears, wolves, bison, mule deer, and pronghorn also roam these wild lands, offering lucky visitors unforgettable wildlife viewing opportunities.
Geological RegionPositioned at nature's crossroads where two mountain creeks converge, the cabin occupies a special place in this rugged mountain ecosystem. The surrounding landscape tells an ancient geological story through its dramatic peaks and valleys, while meadow edges blend seamlessly into dense forests of mixed conifers and aspens, creating a diverse habitat that changes with every season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly stated.
Sites SizeThe main cabin is suitable for up to 15 occupants, providing basic space for sleeping and living.
Sites PrivacyReviews note ample privacy due to the remote location and surrounding forest.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 001 offers privacy and ample space. Reviews suggest bringing mouse traps and an axe for cutting firewood.
Best CampsitesSite 001 in Clear Creek Guard Station is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Call the district office four days prior for security combination. Null for specific times.
Check-out
Null for specific times.
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 14 consecutive nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of the cabin is 15 people.
Groups
No group site details are provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with additional outhouse, picnic table, and campfire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1 to December 31, annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot mentioned, null.
Cancellation PolicyIf canceled before arrival, a $10 fee will be deducted along with reservation fees. Late cancellations (14 days or fewer before arrival) also forfeit the first night's use fee. Changes cost $10 if new dates differ entirely from original ones.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Clear Creek Guard Station offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, mountain biking, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, fishing, and hunting. Its remote location provides opportunities for relaxation and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Nearby trails accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and OHV enthusiasts. Trails range in difficulty and offer scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is available in Clear Creek, but specific details about fish species or regulations are not provided.Biking
Trails suitable for mountain biking surround the guard station, offering rugged terrain and scenic vistas.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species in the area include black bears, wolves, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, grizzly bears, mountain lions, and pronghorn. The location provides prime opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Popular winter activities include snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests are encouraged to burn locally sourced firewood.
- Quiet hours are Null.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards include black and grizzly bears, mountain lions, and wolves. Guests are advised to follow bear safety guidelines.
Active alertsSnow conditions may limit accessibility during fall, winter, and spring.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.6 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
Emergency Services
Emergency services are located in Montpelier, ID (20 miles away), including hospitals and police stations. The Montpelier Ranger District Office can provide assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThis is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility, requiring guests to pack out their own trash. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Crow Creek and Clear Creek, offering fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsPast reviews mention issues like mice, flies, and heating stove malfunction, although these have been addressed over time.
HostNo host information provided, null.
Campground Map
322 N 4TH STREET, MONTPELIER, ID 83254, USA
Driving directionsFrom Montpelier, take Highway 89 east for 7 miles. At the Montpelier Reservoir (Crow Creek Road)/ Forest Road 111, turn north and travel 13 miles to the guard station. Maps are available upon request at the district office. From Afton, Wyoming, take Highway 89 south and turn right on WY 236 North. Drive for 2.6 miles and continue on to County Road 142/Fairview North Road. In less than a mile, turn left onto County Road 141/Crow Creek Road. Follow this road for 16.5 miles. The guard station is just off this road to the right.
Accessible by car when there is no snow. Snow conditions can affect accessibility during fall, winter, and spring, requiring snowmobiles for travel. Roads leading to the cabin include gravel.Nearby places
Montpelier (20 miles northeast, approximately 30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Montpelier (20 miles away) is the closest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.5
6 reviews
Clear Creek Guard Station is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Clear Creek Guard Station are generally positive, emphasizing its remote charm, wildlife presence, and rustic accommodations. Maintenance improvements over time were highly appreciated.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the cabin's cleanliness, functional wood stove, ample firewood supply, and scenic location. Reviewers enjoyed the privacy and peaceful environment provided by the remote...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common concerns include issues with mice, dead flies, and theft of axes. One reviewer noted a leaky wood stove, although this complaint was later resolved.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests are advised to bring mouse traps, an axe for firewood, and cleaning supplies such as a mop. Reviewers recommend this site for those seeking a tranquil and rustic experience.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight snowmobiling accessibility and the charm of the cabin during hunting season. Summer reviews mention long gravel road drives and the surrounding scenic beauty.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The heating stove leaks smoke into the room. It should be replaced or repaired. The smoke comes from cracks in the body of the stove." - Kermit R, 2021
"I was happy to see that my concerns from last...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 001 received consistent positive praise for cleanliness, ample space, and improved maintenance.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features were not specifically mentioned in reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences were not mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025