Cub River Guard Station
4.5018 reviews322 N. 4th St., Montpelier, ID, 83254, USA
Cub River Guard Station
$60.00 - $100.00 / 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
Peak season cabin rental is $100 per night (May 16 - September 15). Non-peak season rental is $60 per night (September 16 - December 31). Fees do not include taxes or discounts.
About this campground
Step back in time at Cub River Guard Station, where over a century of wilderness heritage awaits your discovery. Originally established in 1907 and lovingly rebuilt in 1959, this historic cabin offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort for adventurous groups seeking an authentic mountain retreat. Whether you're casting lines into crystal-clear waters, exploring backcountry trails, or carving fresh tracks through pristine powder, this year-round sanctuary serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures in a setting that feels wonderfully removed from the everyday world.
Cub River Guard Station offers cabin lodging along with tent camping options on the grassy area outside the cabin.
Historical SignificanceFor over 115 years, Cub River Guard Station has stood as a sentinel in these mountains, witnessing the evolution of the American wilderness experience. First erected in 1907 when forest rangers traveled by horseback, the station has seen countless seasons change and stories unfold. The current cabin, thoughtfully reconstructed in 1959, preserves the spirit of those early days while serving modern adventurers who seek the same connection to wild places that drew the original forest guardians to this special spot.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of mountain magic as the seasons transform this high-country haven. Summer days invite exploration with temperatures hovering between a comfortable 60-80°F under brilliant blue skies. As autumn paints the landscape in gold and crimson, the weather becomes delightfully unpredictable, offering crisp mornings perfect for wildlife watching. Winter transforms the station into a snow-globe wonderland accessible only by snowmobile, where the silence is broken only by the crunch of snow underfoot. Spring's arrival brings its own surprises, with lingering snow patches giving way to emerging wildflowers.
ElevationPerched at 6,000 feet where the air is crisp and clear, the station offers that perfect mountain elevation where adventure begins. Here, you'll breathe a little deeper, sleep a little sounder, and feel the gentle reminder that you've truly escaped to the high country, where weather can shift from sunshine to snow showers in the span of an afternoon.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled along the melodic waters of Cub River, the station sits amid a tapestry of towering pines, stately hardwoods, and whispering cottonwoods that shelter abundant wildlife. Morning mist often reveals moose grazing in nearby meadows, while elk bugle across the valleys during autumn evenings. Dense willow thickets line the riverbanks, creating natural corridors where deer slip silently through the undergrowth. Come summer, the landscape erupts in a painter's palette of wildflowers, transforming meadows into nature's own impressionist masterpiece.
Geological RegionThe Cub River Valley cradles the guard station in a dramatic landscape sculpted by millennia of flowing water and shifting seasons. At 6,000 feet, this mountain ecosystem showcases nature's diversity through stands of mixed hardwoods that blaze with autumn color, evergreen pines that stand sentinel year-round, and riverside cottonwoods whose leaves shimmer like coins in the breeze. The river itself has carved a gentle corridor through the terrain, its banks thick with willow that provide cover for the abundant wildlife - from majestic moose to graceful elk and cautious deer that call this wilderness home.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo explicit information on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe site accommodates up to 75 people and 20 vehicles. Tent camping is permitted on the large grassy area adjacent to the cabin.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information provided about privacy levels.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for large groups in summer due to outdoor amenities like basketball and volleyball courts. Winter visitors should prepare for cold weather and rely on the wood stove for heat.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 (Cub River Guard Station Loop) is the sole site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 3 PM.
Check-out
Check-out at 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin can sleep up to 8 people on bunk beds. Outside space accommodates up to 75 people.
Groups
Total capacity for the site is 75 people and 20 vehicles. Large groups can utilize the lawn area for tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with grassy outdoor areas for tents and games. Outdoor pavilion and fire pit enhance group use.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservable period starts May 16 and runs through December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWinter access is via snowmobile only. Summer reservations are recommended due to popularity.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be changed for a $10 fee. Cancellations incur a $10 fee and may forfeit the first night's recreation use fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival (cabins). Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Numerous recreational activities are available at the Cub River Guard Station, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, off-road vehicle trails, fishing, and winter sports such as snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The large grassy area serves as a play zone for basketball, volleyball, tetherball, and horseshoes.
Hiking
Nearby trailheads lead to multi-use trails, including the Highline National Recreation Trail. Trails cater to hikers, bikers, and horseback riders.Fishing
Fly-fishing opportunities for cutthroat and rainbow trout are available in the Cub River.Biking
Biking trails crisscross the area, offering opportunities for exploration.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, elk, and deer can be observed in the area, particularly near dense thickets of willow around Cub River.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.Water Sports
No explicit mention of non-motorized water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits are available; firewood may be provided but must be chopped. Adhere to 'Don't Move Firewood' guidelines.
- Quiet hours not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include cold temperatures in winter, snowmobile noise, wildlife like moose and elk, and limited water supply.
Active alertsPotential for flooding in spring and early summer noted in user reviews. Snow conditions may restrict accessibility from Nov to June.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services are in Montpelier, ID, approximately 35 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 15 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out their trash and clean the cabin before departure. Trash bags and cleaning supplies are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Cub River, offering opportunities for fishing (cutthroat and rainbow trout) and scenic views.
Common complaintsComplaints include malfunctioning propane heaters, lack of kitchen supplies, and limited instructions for propane use. Some guests noted glass fragments around fire pits.
HostNo dedicated campground host; contact Montpelier Ranger District at (208) 847-0375 for assistance.
Campground Map
322 N. 4th St., Montpelier, ID, 83254, USA
Driving directionsFrom Preston, Idaho, head approximately 3 miles south on U.S. Highway 91. Turn east on Cub River Road/Forest Road 406. Proceed about 10 miles to the guard station. This road is heavily traveled throughout the summer with other recreationists, so please travel slowly and use caution.
The road to Cub River Guard Station is paved and accessible year-round during warmer months. Winter access requires snowmobiles due to snow conditions. The road is heavily traveled during summer, requiring extra caution.Nearby places
Preston, ID (~10 miles)
Montpelier, ID (~35 miles)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies can be found in Preston, Idaho (~10 miles). Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Montpelier, Idaho (~35 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.5
18 reviews
Cub River Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, emphasizing the rustic charm, variety of activities, and suitability for large groups. Some complaints focus on equipment issues and maintenance concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews highlight the variety of activities such as basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, and hiking trails. The cabin's rustic charm and spaciousness for large groups are also frequently...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes maintenance issues such as non-functional propane heaters, broken mantels for lighting, smashed glass near the fire pit, and insufficient firewood.
Based on 18 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing comprehensive supplies, including bedding, kitchenware, cleaning tools, and firewood splitting equipment. Filtering or boiling water from the nearby stream is advised.
Based on 18 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews often mention the cabin's warmth due to the wood stove, while summer reviews praise outdoor amenities like the pavilion and recreational courts.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Gas worked and the wood-burning stove worked like a champ." - Nicholas Moyle
2. "Bring everything you need to survive...everything!" - Jeremy J.
3. "We couldn’t get the propane heater to work." -...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews generally focus on the cabin (site 001, Loop: CUB RIVER GUARD STATION). Positive mentions include the wood-burning stove and recreational amenities, while negative feedback highlights...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed feedback from pet owners; some appreciate the fenced area for pets, while others raise concerns about smashed glass near the fire pit.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025