Buck Park Cabin
4.1510 reviews851 E. 9TH STREET, WEISER, ID, 83672, USA
Buck Park Cabin
$50.00 - $50.00 / 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 Buck Park Cabin during the peak season (July 1 - November 1) is $50. Reservation fees, taxes, and additional charges may apply.
About this campground
Escape to Buck Park Cabin, a hidden gem nestled deep within the Payette National Forest's rugged wilderness. This authentic rustic retreat beckons adventurers seeking solitude at 7,280 feet, where three lucky guests can experience Idaho's backcountry the way it was meant to be explored. Your home base features sturdy metal cots for rest, a crackling wood stove that serves double duty for warmth and simple camp cooking, and an outdoor vault toilet that keeps you connected to the natural world. From here, endless trails unfold before you—whether you prefer to explore on foot, mountain bike, horseback, or OHV, the pristine wilderness of central Idaho awaits your discovery.
Buck Park Cabin is a rustic, non-electric cabin situated in a remote location. It caters primarily to individuals seeking primitive camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceThe landscape surrounding Buck Park tells a story of resilience and renewal. The devastating 2020 wildfire swept across Cuddy Mountain, dramatically reshaping this wilderness and leaving its mark on both the land and its wildlife populations. What was once a premier hunting destination has transformed into a testament to nature's cycles of destruction and rebirth. Today's visitors witness firsthand how the forest regenerates, offering a unique perspective on the raw power of wildfire and the slow, beautiful process of ecological recovery.
Weather and SeasonsJuly through September transforms Buck Park into an outdoor paradise, with sun-drenched days perfect for exploration and crisp mountain nights ideal for stargazing. Summer brings reliably dry conditions and comfortable temperatures that make every adventure memorable. As autumn arrives, golden aspens paint the landscape before winter's first snowflakes begin to dust the peaks. Late fall visitors should note that early snow can limit access, making this truly a summer and early fall destination where nature shows off her finest weather.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,280 feet in the heart of Buck Park, this mountain sanctuary offers the kind of elevation that changes everything. Here, the air is crisp and thin, the views stretch endlessly across Idaho's rugged terrain, and summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool even on the warmest days. This high-altitude setting creates a natural amphitheater where morning mists dance through the meadows and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself waking to panoramic views across a wildflower-dotted meadow, where dense stands of conifers frame glimpses of Rush Lake shimmering in the distance. From the cabin's doorstep, your eyes can trace the curves of Hornet Reservoir and Lower Hornet Reservoir, their waters reflecting the endless Idaho sky. This enchanting pocket of the Payette National Forest showcases nature's artistry at every turn—from intimate forest glades to sweeping mountain vistas, from babbling mountain streams to serene alpine lakes. Each view offers a postcard-perfect reminder of why Idaho's wilderness remains one of the West's best-kept secrets.
Geological RegionSet within the dramatic landscapes of Cuddy Mountain in central Idaho's Payette National Forest, Buck Park occupies a geological wonderland where ancient volcanic activity and millennia of erosion have sculpted a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. This corner of Idaho showcases the raw beauty of the Northern Rockies ecosystem, where granite peaks rise above verdant valleys and pristine waterways carve their paths through untamed wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets and lodging accommodations are available, but details on ADA compliance or accessibility for individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate a maximum of three people with limited space, as described in reviews: "The clearance for the upper bunk to the ceiling was only 12 inches...it could fit gear but no one for sleeping."
Sites PrivacySome reviews expressed concerns over privacy: "One concern we had is that the site is apparently available for other campers who do not stay in the cabin."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy, some reviewers recommend that reservations should limit site sharing to those who booked the cabin.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 is the only site available at Buck Park Cabin.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 3 people.
Groups
No group camping facilities or site-specific information is provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is a single building within Buck Park Meadow. Horse corrals and hitching racks are available.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is reservable from July 1 to November 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations carry a $10 change 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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers various recreational activities such as hiking, biking, horseback riding, off-road vehicle trails, and fishing opportunities at nearby Rush Lake and Hornet reservoirs. Hunting is also a popular activity in the area.
Hiking
Several motorized and non-motorized trails are available for hikers, mountain bikers, and off-road enthusiasts in the surrounding area.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are present at Rush Lake, Hornet, and Lower Hornet reservoirs. Specific fish species and fishing regulations are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available as part of the motorized and non-motorized trail network.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing may be limited due to the 2020 fire that affected Cuddy Mountain. One review noted, "The only animals we saw were grasshoppers in the meadows and cows."Winter Activities
Information on winter activities is not provided.Water Sports
Details on non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood must be locally sourced to prevent the spread of pests. Guests should bring their own firewood for the cabin's wood stove.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include challenging road access with large rocks and narrow sections, the absence of drinking water, and environmental impacts from the 2020 wildfire.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 9.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services and ranger stations are available in Council, Idaho.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 - November 1.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to bring their own garbage bags and adhere to 'pack it in, pack it out' policies. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNearby are Rush Lake, Hornet Reservoir, and Lower Hornet Reservoir, which offer fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include remnants of the 2020 wildfire, lack of rejuvenated vegetation, and issues with cabin furniture such as the bunk bed and sofa bed. Some reviews note that privacy can be compromised by other campers.
Campground Map
851 E. 9TH STREET, WEISER, ID, 83672, USA
Driving directionsFrom Council, drive 12 miles northwest on the paved Council-Cuprum Road 002, then 12 miles southwest on the gravel Buck Park Road 055 (high-clearance vehicles are necessary for passage). Continue 0.2 miles south on Buck Park Spur. Expect large rocks and a narrow, one-way road. Buck Park is a 1.5-hour drive from Council, Idaho.
The road to Buck Park Cabin requires high-clearance vehicles due to the gravel surface, large rocks, and narrow sections. Snowfall after mid-October can further hinder access.Nearby places
Council, Idaho (approximately 1.5 hours driving time)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including food, fuel, and camping essentials, can be obtained in Council, Idaho, before driving to the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
10 reviews
Buck Park Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews indicate a mix of positive and negative experiences, with an average sentiment of 4.06. Visitors praise the cabin's rustic charm and efficient wood stove but note issues such as the impact of the 2020 fire on the surrounding area and cabin amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes praise for the wood stove's efficiency, clean vault toilet, and the cabin's overall rustic charm. "The wood stove is super efficient and will keep you warm," and "The...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised by visitors include the poor condition of the sofa bed, limited privacy due to potential other campers, and challenges accessing the cabin due to rough roads. One visitor remarked, "The...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing high-clearance vehicles, certified weed-free hay for horses, and additional supplies like bedding and firewood. One reviewer advised, "Drive slow and we were fine," when...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Seasonal trends indicate that hunting in the area is more popular before the effects of the 2020 fire. Winter visits may be challenging due to snow, as noted in the facility description.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The futon was comfortable. We did not use the bunk beds." "The road to the cabin is not as bad as posted. Drive slow and we were fine." "I love this cabin and will stay there every year I can get...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews focus on campsite 001 within Buck Park Cabin and highlight the pros and cons of the cabin's features. Positive remarks include the wood stove's efficiency, while complaints focus on the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews address pet policies or pet owner experiences.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025