Caribou Mountain Guard Station
4.4811 reviews322 N. 4th St., Montpelier, ID, 83254, USA
Caribou Mountain Guard Station
$60.00 - $60.00 / 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 $60. Additional fees include a reservation fee of $8-$9 based on booking platform and a $10 cancellation fee.
About this campground
Perched high on Caribou Mountain in southeastern Idaho, the historic Caribou Mountain Guard Station beckons adventurers seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This rustic mountain retreat, named after the legendary prospector 'Cariboo Jack', serves as your gateway to pristine wilderness where history meets adventure. Here, visitors trade modern conveniences for starlit nights, wildlife encounters, and the profound silence of the high country.
Caribou Mountain Guard Station offers cabin camping with minimal amenities, catering to adventurers seeking a rustic experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into Idaho's golden past at this historic guard station, where the spirit of Cariboo Jack lives on in local lore. This weathered outpost once served as a vital hub for forest rangers protecting these wild lands, and today stands as a testament to the rugged individuals who shaped Idaho's mining and forestry heritage. Within these walls, generations of stories echo—tales of gold rush dreams, forest stewardship, and the enduring call of the mountains.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a cool refuge from valley heat, with crisp mornings in the mid-40s warming to pleasant afternoons in the 70s. These months bring minimal rain but nature's own welcoming committee of mosquitoes, so pack accordingly. When winter arrives, the landscape becomes a snow-covered wonderland accessible only to the intrepid souls willing to journey by snowmobile or cross-country skis through a pristine white wilderness.
ElevationAt 7,000 feet above sea level, this mountain perch offers naturally air-conditioned summers and breathtaking views that stretch for miles. The thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to your adventure—take it slow your first day as your body adjusts to the altitude. This elevation creates a unique environment where wildflowers bloom later, snow lingers longer, and every breath connects you more deeply to the mountain landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of towering conifers and sun-dappled meadows where nature's drama unfolds daily. Black bears forage for berries, wolves move like shadows through the forest, and majestic elk and moose claim these woods as home. Below, the vast wetlands of Grays Lake stretch toward the horizon, while above, the commanding presence of Caribou Mountain creates an ever-changing canvas of light, shadow, and weather that photographers and nature lovers find irresistible.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Caribou-Targhee National Forest, this mountain outpost sits in the shadow of Caribou Mountain, southeastern Idaho's second-highest peak at 9,803 feet. This remarkable landscape weaves together dense conifer forests, wildflower-strewn meadows, and the ecologically vital Grays Lake marshlands below. The diverse terrain tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient forces sculpted a playground for modern adventurers seeking solitude among the clouds.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible by car during warmer months but requires snowmobiles or skis during winter. Guests should be prepared to make a 6-mile trek with all necessary gear during colder seasons.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 15 people and offers minimal facilities.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, situated in a stand of mixed conifers at the edge of a meadow.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring bedding, sleeping pads, and mosquito repellent. Opt for colder weeks to avoid mosquito issues.
Best CampsitesThe guard station cabin is the sole accommodation.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 15 guests per cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with a warming hut and vault toilet nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but reservable only during certain dates due to seasonal conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability specified; advanced reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival incur a $10 fee and refund minus reservation fees. Late cancellations for cabins result in forfeiture of the first night's use fee if made less than 14 days before arrival.
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
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Caribou Mountain Guard Station provides outdoor enthusiasts with a variety of activities, including hiking, mountain biking, hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. Off-road vehicle trails, such as the Caribou Mountain ATV Trail, are popular attractions. Nearby Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers birdwatching and winter sports.
Hiking
Guests can explore trails including the Caribou Mountain ATV Trail and the Caribou Mountain Mine Trail. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is permitted, but no details are available about fish species or quality of fishing.Biking
Mountain biking is possible, with trails near the cabin being accessible and reportedly enjoyable.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes black bear, wolf, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, grizzly bears, mountain lion, and pronghorn. Birdwatching at nearby Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge is popular.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes snowmobiling and cross-country skiing. Guests can access trails for these activities, and nearby Grays Lake National Wildlife Refuge is open for skiing and snowshoeing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood available on-site; restrictions on firewood transport to prevent pest spread.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are highly prevalent during summer. Wildlife risks include black bears and mountain lions. Exposure to hantavirus is a potential concern.
Active alertsSnow conditions affect cabin accessibility from November through June.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are in Montpelier, ID, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out their trash, as no trash or recycling services are available.
Proximity to water featuresGrays Lake marshes are nearby, popular for bird watching.
Common complaintsMultiple reviews mention excessive mosquitoes during summer. Concerns over cabin maintenance include issues with heaters and furnishings.
Campground Map
322 N. 4th St., Montpelier, ID, 83254, USA
Driving directionsFrom Soda Springs, take Highway 34 north approximately 33 miles. Turn left onto Greys Lake Road. Drive north about 11.5 miles on Greys Lake Road and turn right onto McCoy Creek Road (Forest Road 087). Follow McCoy Creek Road for 6.5 miles to the guard station. Maps are available upon request at the district office.
Road access varies by season. During warmer months, the guard station is accessible by car, while in winter, snowmobiles or skis are required for the 6-mile journey. Snow conditions may affect accessibility between November and June.Nearby places
Soda Springs: 33 miles, approximately 45 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel are available in Montpelier, ID.
Camper Reviews
4.5
11 reviews
Caribou Mountain Guard Station is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, with some praising the cabin's cleanliness and location while others highlight issues with mosquitoes and the heater. The area is described as beautiful but challenging during mosquito season.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers appreciated the clean and well-maintained cabin. "Clean, well taken care of," said one user, while another noted, "Very clean and the heater warmed it up great." The scenic location...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Mosquitoes were overwhelmingly the largest complaint, with several users describing extreme conditions. "By far the most mosquitos any of us had ever experienced in our lives," wrote one reviewer....
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing mosquito repellent and citronella candles due to the high mosquito population. Other recommendations include carrying bedding and cooking supplies, as these are not provided....
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight mosquito issues, while winter guests note the need for snowmobiles or skis to access the cabin. Fall and spring reviews are less frequent but mention that snow conditions can...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Could be a nice cabin if they would upkeep the land. So many mosquitoes and high, overgrown grass," noted one reviewer. Another commented, "Great Cabin! Very clean and the heater warmed it up...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Nearly all reviews reference campsite 001, the sole site at this guard station. Experiences vary widely depending on the season and equipment brought by guests.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility concerns primarily revolve around the winter season, when snowmobiles or skis are required to reach the cabin. No specific reviews from individuals with disabilities were available.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025