Liz Creek Cabin
03 reviewsNorth Fork Ranger District, 12740 Highway 12, Orofino, ID, 83544, USA
Liz Creek Cabin
$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 cabin rental fee during the peak season (July 14 to October 13) is $40 per night. Additional fees may apply, such as reservation service fees, cancellation fees, and change fees.
About this campground
Step back in time at Liz Creek Cabin, a beautifully restored 1929 Forest Service guard station that beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. This charming single-room cabin, complete with a cozy loft and welcoming covered porch, underwent a loving restoration in 2014 that preserved its historic character while ensuring modern comfort for up to 4 guests. Your journey here follows a challenging multi-use trail that rewards the intrepid with solitude and connection to the untamed Idaho backcountry.
Liz Creek Cabin offers primitive camping accommodations with a focus on solitude and connection with nature.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable cabin stands as a testament to the early days of forest conservation, earning its place as eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. Built in 1929 when Forest Service rangers patrolled vast wilderness areas on horseback, Liz Creek Cabin served as a crucial outpost for protecting these pristine forests. Today, its weathered logs and timeless design tell the story of dedicated public servants who helped preserve the wild places we cherish.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect hiking weather to this mountain sanctuary, with crisp mornings starting in the refreshing 40s°F before warming to comfortable 60s°F afternoons under brilliant blue skies. The dry summer conditions create ideal exploring weather, though visitors should come prepared for cool evenings. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, but access becomes a serious undertaking requiring careful planning and potentially impassable conditions through early spring.
ElevationPerched at 3,500 feet above sea level, the cabin enjoys a refreshing mountain climate where wildflowers dance in alpine meadows and the air carries the sweet scent of pine and fir. This elevation creates a natural sanctuary where diverse wildlife thrives among the verdant understory, and cool temperatures provide welcome relief from summer heat, making every breath of mountain air feel rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere Liz Creek meets Weitas Creek at 3,500 feet, nature has crafted a spectacular mountain amphitheater surrounded by towering ridges clothed in ancient forests. Majestic old-growth conifers stretch skyward, their massive trunks telling centuries-old stories, while weathered cedar snags stand as silver sentinels, remnants of the legendary 1910 fires. In late summer, huckleberry bushes heavy with fruit create a purple paradise, and industrious beaver colonies have engineered wetland habitats that teem with life, from melodious songbirds to elusive mountain creatures.
Geological RegionNestled within the remote upper Weitas Creek drainage of the North Fork Ranger District, this corner of the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forest represents one of Idaho's last great wilderness frontiers. At 3,500 feet elevation, the landscape showcases nature's resilience and diversity, where ancient cedar snags from the historic 1910 fires stand among thriving old-growth forests. The dynamic ecosystem, enhanced by beaver-engineered wetlands, supports an incredible array of plant and animal life, from towering conifers to delicate wildflowers, creating a living tapestry that changes with each season.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the available information.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to four people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is highly secluded and situated in a remote area with surrounding forest and meadow.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesTrail conditions can be challenging, so visitors should bring saw gas for clearing debris, insect repellant, and bear spray. The cabin is less suitable for visitors during early spring or late fall due to weather.
Best CampsitesLiz Creek Cabin is the only site available for rental.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 6 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 4 people in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin includes a single room, loft, covered porch, and nearby pit toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from July 14 to October 13.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability due to the remote nature of the cabin and its reservation-based system.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) also forfeit the first night's rental fee. No-show reservations incur a $20 fee and forfeit 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
Fire rings
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Liz Creek Cabin can enjoy an array of activities including hiking, berry picking, biking, fishing, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding trails offer access to diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas.
Hiking
Trail 20 provides access to multi-use trails, including a single-track leading to the cabin. Hiking can be steep and arduous with significant elevation changes, as noted by reviewers.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in Weitas and Liz Creeks, which are home to beaver dams and native flora/fauna.Biking
Biking is possible along nearby trails, including multi-use motorized trails open to vehicles 50" or less.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in biodiversity, offering chances to observe native flora and fauna, including beaver dams and old-growth forests.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned for Liz Creek Cabin.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings; however, 'Don't Move Firewood' principles must be followed.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include challenging trail conditions, potential encounters with bears (signs of bears noted by reviewers), and steep elevation changes.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6 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 Orofino, ID, including hospitals and police stations. Visitors are advised to prepare for emergencies due to the remote nature of the site.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 14 to October 13.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash according to the 'Pack it In, Pack it Out' policy.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Liz and Weitas Creeks, which feature unique habitats like beaver dams.
Common complaintsRepeated complaints include inaccessible trails due to debris, broken cots, lack of firewood, and drafty cabin conditions. Maintenance issues such as visible daylight through the roof and door gaps were noted.
HostRanger station contact is 208-476-8267.
Campground Map
North Fork Ranger District, 12740 Highway 12, Orofino, ID, 83544, USA
Driving directionsTo reach Liz Creek Cabin from U.S. HWY 12, locate FSR 107 at mile marker 139.7, approximately 25 miles west of Powell, Idaho. Follow FSR 107 for 12 miles north to Saddle Camp Junction with FSR 500/FSR 587. Turn left onto FSR 500 heading west and continue for 4 miles to the trailhead at 12 Mile Saddle (trail #20). Travel along trail 20 for 9.5 miles to the pack bridge crossing at Weitas Creek. The final 1.5 miles to the cabin must be traversed by foot or non-motorized vehicle. Visitors are strongly advised to consult maps and seasonal conditions prior to travel due to rough roads and potential closures.
Access requires a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle for gravel roads peppered with potholes and debris. The last portion of the trail is closed to motorized vehicles over 50 inches wide and requires hiking or riding.Nearby places
Pierce, ID (25 miles, approximately 1 hour travel time)
Powell, ID (25 miles)
Kooskia, ID (approximately 60 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies such as groceries, camping gear, and fuel are available in Pierce, ID, approximately 25 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Liz Creek Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the rugged nature of the campground and the challenging access roads and trails. Visitors appreciate the historical significance and remote location but note maintenance issues and difficulties reaching the cabin.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Visitors describe the cabin and surrounding area as beautiful, remote, and rich in natural features. Activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing are praised.
Based on 3 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common concerns include inaccessible roads and trails, broken cots, structural issues with the cabin, and missing amenities such as firewood and the outhouse.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers suggest bringing plenty of bug spray, bear spray, and proper hiking gear. They also recommend contacting the ranger station for updated travel advice and trail conditions.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Access to Liz Creek Cabin can be heavily impacted by seasonal conditions. Spring and fall may pose challenges due to high-elevation weather and trail obstacles. Summer is recommended for better...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The cabin is drafty and the roof is see-through in a few places.' (Matt P.) - 'Beautiful location and worth the work to get to or out of it.' (Yana R.) - 'The elevation change is tremendous,...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mention broken cots at the cabin and issues with advertised amenities such as the outhouse and firewood availability.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users note that pets are permitted but advise cleaning up after them and bringing necessary supplies.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025