Crescent Lake Guard Station
4.4535 reviewsPO Box 208, Crescent, OR 97733, USA
Crescent Lake Guard Station
$120.00 - $120.00 / 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 rates for the cabin are $120 per night. This fee does not include taxes, discounts, or additional charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at the Crescent Lake Guard Station, where 1930s craftsmanship meets modern comfort on the pristine eastern shore of Crescent Lake. This charming one-bedroom, one-bathroom cabin seamlessly blends historic character with contemporary amenities, offering adventurers the perfect balance between authentic wilderness immersion and creature comforts. Whether you're seeking solitude, romance, or a basecamp for outdoor exploration, this lakeside retreat delivers an unforgettable experience without sacrificing convenience.
The Crescent Lake Guard Station is a unique lodging option within the Deschutes National Forest, offering a rustic yet comfortable cabin experience. No tent or RV sites are available, as the facility is specifically a cabin rental.
Historical SignificanceThis authentic 1930s Guard Station stands as a living monument to America's conservation legacy, its sturdy timber walls echoing with stories of early forest rangers who protected these lands for future generations. Every hand-hewn beam and weathered floorboard speaks to the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps era, when this outpost served as a vital link in the Forest Service's mission to preserve our natural heritage. Today, staying here connects you directly to this proud tradition of stewardship.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, the Guard Station basks in nature's finest weather, with sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities and comfortably cool evenings ideal for stargazing from your private deck. Mountain breezes occasionally sweep across the water, creating gentle whitecaps and refreshing the forest air. When winter arrives, the landscape transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, bringing pristine powder, crystalline air, and the kind of profound silence only found in the deep wilderness. Access becomes an adventure in itself during these months, rewarding the intrepid with unparalleled solitude.
ElevationPerched at high elevation where the air is crisp and thin, the Guard Station offers a genuine mountain experience with breathtaking panoramic vistas that seem to stretch forever. Cool nights invite cozy evenings by the fire, while the rarified atmosphere creates some of the clearest, most star-filled skies you'll ever witness. This lofty setting provides natural air conditioning in summer and transforms the landscape into a dramatic alpine playground year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryCradled in an ancient glacial basin where towering ponderosa pines meet crystal-clear waters, Crescent Lake dazzles with its extraordinary blue-green hues that shift from turquoise to emerald with the changing light. Sandy beaches beckon barefoot exploration, while the surrounding forest creates an intimate amphitheater of natural beauty. This pristine alpine lake, carved by glaciers millennia ago, offers endless opportunities for photography, contemplation, and recreation against a backdrop of untouched wilderness.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic Deschutes National Forest, the Guard Station occupies a remarkable glacial basin sculpted by ancient ice flows and protected by a natural moraine dam. This unique geological setting, positioned east of the Cascade Mountain Range summit, creates a spectacular high-altitude oasis where volcanic peaks meet pristine waters. The surrounding landscape tells a millions-year-old story of fire and ice, offering visitors a front-row seat to the powerful forces that shaped the Pacific Northwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned. The description does state that lake access involves a 'VERY steep trail several hundred yards down,' which may present challenges for individuals with mobility difficulties.
Sites SizeThe Guard Station is a standalone cabin of approximately 670 square feet.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in an open area atop a hill, offering privacy and scenic views of Crescent Lake. It is described as feeling 'isolated' despite being close to Crescent Lake Lodge.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe cabin is suitable for families and small groups due to its amenities like a full kitchen, flush toilets, and comfortable furniture. Bring water shoes for beach activities.
Best CampsitesThe single cabin is the main lodging option.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 4 people per reservation.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin on a small hill overlooking the lake.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 26, 2025 to September 29, 2025 (reservable season).
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made as far in advance as possible. Fees include a $10 cancellation charge and, for cancellations within 14 days of arrival, forfeiture of the first night's recreation 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
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The Crescent Lake Guard Station offers a variety of activities due to its location near Crescent Lake and other scenic attractions. Popular activities include boating, fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and swimming. The nearby Crescent Lake Resort provides opportunities for boat rentals and access to additional recreational amenities. User reviews highlight activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and exploring the lake's clear waters: 'The ability to kayak, paddle board, water ski or just swim and explore the beautiful water is amazing.'
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity in the area, with access to trails such as those in the Diamond Peak Wilderness. Specific details about trail difficulty, length, or conditions are not provided.Fishing
'Awesome Kokanee fishing!' is mentioned in a user review as a highlight of the area. Fishing supplies are available for purchase at the Crescent Lake Resort.Swimming
Swimming is noted as a popular activity in Crescent Lake, with its clear and cool waters. A user review mentions: 'The water was incredibly clear! My family had so much fun snorkeling the waters and looking at the reeds, rocks, and sun rays through the water.'Boating
Boating is supported with a nearby boat launch and rentals available at the Crescent Lake Resort. Activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of eagles, osprey, squirrels, and chipmunks, according to user reviews.Beach activities
The area offers sandy beaches for relaxation and activities such as volleyball. However, the sand is noted to be rough, made from pumice stones, and water shoes are recommended: 'The beach was nice to lay on, but there wasn’t a lot of shaded areas, so if you go in the summer, an umbrella is a must.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the cabin's location and amenities suggest potential for off-season stays.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, and water skiing are popular activities on Crescent Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are generally permitted but subject to seasonal bans during high fire danger periods.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as squirrels, chipmunks, and bears. Visitors are advised to use proper food storage and secure garbage.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned. Visitors should check with the Crescent Ranger District for fire restrictions, weather updates, and road closures.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 47%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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 available in Crescent (12.2 miles), including ranger district offices, basic medical facilities, and Crescent Rural Fire Protection District.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 26, 2025 - September 29, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all food and garbage to prevent wildlife from being attracted to the area. There are no garbage cans in the restroom or nearby, according to a user review: 'The campground is very dusty, and there are no garbage cans in the restroom or nearby.'
Proximity to water featuresSituated on the shore of Crescent Lake with nearby access to beaches, boat ramps, and fishing spots.
Common complaintsCritters (squirrels and chipmunks) making noise inside the cabin walls. Dusty conditions during summer. Reports of yellowjackets near wet shoreline areas.
HostManaged by the Crescent Ranger District. Contact at (541) 433-3200 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM).
Campground Map
PO Box 208, Crescent, OR 97733, USA
Driving directionsFrom Crescent, OR: Travel 12.2 miles west on County Road 61/Crescent Cut-off Road, then 3.5 miles north on Highway 58, then 2.2 miles west on Forest Road 60/OR-429 S. Once you have reached the Sno-Park, stay straight and follow signs to the Resort on Forest Road 6005 (1,000 ft). Turn right on Forest Road 6005-100, then left on Forest Road 6005-105. The Guard Station is located on the right side of the road towards the lake.
Accessible via paved roads from Crescent, OR. Forest roads leading to the site may require extra caution, but are navigable by regular vehicles.Nearby places
Crescent (12.2 miles, ~20 minutes), Klamath Falls (~70 miles, ~90 minutes), Bend (~75 miles, ~90 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Crescent Lake Resort within walking distance offers food, fishing supplies, and boat rentals. Additional supplies available in Crescent (12.2 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.5
35 reviews
Crescent Lake Guard Station is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Crescent Lake Guard Station is widely praised for its serene location, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. Guests appreciate the cabin's amenities and the variety of activities available in the area, although some reviews note issues such as critter noise and maintenance concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 35 reviews
What Campers Love
Peaceful setting, proximity to the lake, outdoor activities, variety of cabin amenities.
Based on 35 reviewsCommon Concerns
Critters in the walls, steep access to the lake, lack of maintenance, and limited communication about fire bans or water availability.
Based on 35 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water shoes for rocky beaches, bug spray for mosquitoes, and additional cooking supplies not provided in the cabin, such as a coffee pot and toaster.
Based on 35 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for water activities and the clear lake views, while users mention mosquito issues during certain weeks. Critters and maintenance concerns are more prevalent in off-peak...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Peaceful, relaxing, beautiful.' 2. 'This cabin has electric lights, heaters, hot running water, a stove, a refrigerator, and the smallest bathtub I have ever seen.' 3. 'The ability to kayak,...
Based on 35 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The Guard Station is often described as 'rustic yet comfortable,' with a few critiques about critter noise and steep lake access.
Based on 35 reviewsAccessibility Features
Limited mentions of accessibility suggest that the steep trail to the lake and the need for personal transportation to reach nearby attractions could present challenges.
Based on 35 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed outside only, and some reviews note the need for caution on rocky beaches to avoid injuries.
Based on 35 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025