Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab
P.O. BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA
Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for the Ditch Creek Guard Station cabin is $50 without additional discounts, taxes, or fees. Seasonal rates apply during May 8th to...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider541-676-9187
About this campground
Step back in time at Ditch Creek Guard Station, where 1930s craftsmanship meets modern comfort in the heart of Oregon's wilderness. This charming historic cabin, lovingly built by the Civilian Conservation Corps, welcomes you with its cozy living room, restful bedroom, fully equipped kitchen, and modern bathroom—all powered by propane for an authentic yet comfortable experience. Beyond your doorstep, dense pine forests whisper ancient stories while meadows bloom with wildflowers and crystal-clear streams babble their way through the landscape. Horse enthusiasts will appreciate the thoughtful equestrian facilities, including a sturdy corral and fresh water trough for your four-legged companions.
This site offers options for cabin lodging and tent camping in a secluded, forested environment.
Historical SignificanceEvery weathered board and hand-hewn beam tells the story of America's conservation legacy. When the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived in the 1930s, they didn't just build a structure—they created a guardian post for the forest, where generations of fire lookouts kept watchful eyes on these precious woodlands. This architectural gem, now recognized as eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, transitioned from its vital forest service role to welcome guests in 1997, allowing modern adventurers to experience a piece of living history while creating their own forest memories.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through November, Ditch Creek Guard Station basks in nature's perfect balance. Imagine waking to crisp mornings around 49°F, then enjoying afternoon adventures in comfortable 74°F sunshine. The famously dry Oregon summers mean your outdoor plans rarely face interruption—with less than 0.06 inches of rain during peak weeks. Summer visitors are treated to over 15 hours of glorious daylight, giving you ample time to explore every trail, cast every line, and soak in every sunset from your historic mountain retreat.
ElevationPerched at 4,800 feet where the air is pure and the stars shine bright, Ditch Creek Guard Station offers a natural escape from summer's heat. This mountain elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly cool temperatures perfect for restful nights and invigorating morning hikes. From this lofty vantage point, sweeping views unfold across the forested valleys below, while the thin mountain air adds a crisp clarity to every sunrise and sunset painting the sky above your historic hideaway.
Natural Features and SceneryNature performs a daily symphony around Ditch Creek Guard Station, where the namesake creek gurgles past your door on its journey to join the legendary North Fork John Day River. Towering pines create a natural cathedral overhead, their needle-carpeted floor soft beneath your feet. A hidden gem awaits anglers—a serene pond stocked with eager fish just waiting for your line. As dusk falls, watch for the elegant silhouettes of deer and elk emerging from the forest shadows, while bats perform their nightly aerial ballet against the darkening sky.
Geological RegionYour adventure unfolds along the stunning Blue Mountain Scenic Byway, where nature has painted a masterpiece of contrasts. This remarkable landscape weaves together dense evergreen forests with sun-drenched meadows, creating a patchwork quilt of ecosystems between 4,100 and 5,300 feet. Crystal-clear perennial streams have carved gentle valleys through the terrain, their waters sustaining the lush flat lawns that provide perfect picnic spots and wildlife viewing areas. This unique geological tapestry offers endless exploration opportunities, from shaded forest paths to open meadow vistas where wildflowers dance in the mountain breeze.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin does not meet accessibility standards due to narrow doorways and halls.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six guests indoors, with additional space for tents outside.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is set on a large, flat lawn surrounded by dense pine forest, offering a secluded and quiet environment.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 001 in AREA DITCH CREEK GUARD STATION CAB is recommended for its proximity to trails and Penland Lake. Bring extra light sources, towels for curtains, and sufficient water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six overnight guests allowed inside the cabin, with additional tent camping outside.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with surrounding lawn area. Tent pitches are allowed outside the cabin.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 8th - November 29th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, phone, or app.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified, but reservation is required due to popularity and limited availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations allowed prior to check-in day, but late cancellations (within 14 days of cabins) incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests can engage in numerous recreational activities, including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The surrounding area features over 26 miles of trails and opportunities for mushroom and berry picking.
Hiking
There are over 26 miles of trails in the Heppner Ranger District, ranging from 4,100 to 5,300 feet in elevation. A user noted, 'Lots of hiking in the area on marked trails,' and another mentioned enjoying 'the hike to Little Bald Mountain.'Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in nearby streams, Penland Lake, and Bull Prairie Lake. A reviewer remarked, 'Lake Penland looks like it's worth a try, just a couple of miles drive from the cabin.'Swimming
There is a small pond near the cabin, which one user described as 'a great pond for swimming (at least my dog loves it).'Wildlife viewing
Deer and elk are common in the area, and bats can be seen in the evenings. A user mentioned, 'Lots of bird activity, so that was nice.'Winter Activities
Winter activities such as hiking and exploring the cabin area are possible, though water availability may be limited during colder months.Water Sports
Swimming is possible in the pond near the cabin, but no other water sports are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Use of the fire ring may be restricted due to fire conditions. Guests must call the Ranger Station for updated restrictions.
Hazards
General hazardsWater may not be available due to seasonal issues; carpenter ants have previously been reported. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and bats are common in the area. Fire conditions may restrict fire ring usage.
Active alertsWater supply issues are ongoing. Guests are advised to check with the Heppner Ranger District at (541) 676-9187 for updates before arrival.
Weather forecast
30
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services can be found in Heppner, OR, approximately 40 minutes away. For immediate assistance, the Heppner Ranger District office can be contacted at (541) 676-9187.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 8 - November 29.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out their trash as this is a 'pack in-pack out' facility.
Proximity to water featuresDitch Creek runs nearby, and a small adjacent pond is stocked with fish. Streams flow south into the North Fork John Day River.
Common complaintsSeveral users reported lack of running water, cleanliness issues, carpenter ants, and general maintenance concerns. Positive reviews mention well-stocked kitchen amenities and beautiful surrounding scenery.
HostContact the Heppner Ranger District at (541) 676-9187 for assistance. No on-site host details provided.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA
Driving directionsFrom Lexington, OR, take Highway 74/207 east to Heppner. At the junction just outside the southern edge of Heppner, take a left (east) on paved Willow Creek Road. Travel 23 miles past Willow Creek Lake, Cutsforth County Park, and up Coalmine Hill. At the top of the hill, take a right (west) on Forest Service Road 21 (a gravel road) and travel 3.5 miles. The cabin is located on a hill on the north side of the road and is accessed by two short entrance roads (Forest Service Road 050 and 051).
Primarily accessible via paved Willow Creek Road and gravel Forest Service Road 21. The road quality is generally good, but seasonal closures and fire conditions may restrict access.Nearby places
Lexington, OR (~27 miles, ~40 minutes)
Heppner, OR (~27 miles, ~40 minutes)
Morrow County OHV Park (~30 miles, ~37 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and general supplies are available in Heppner, OR (~40 minutes away). Limited supplies like ice and food options can be found at Morrow County OHV park (~37 minutes away).
Camper Reviews
4.1
14 reviews
Ditch Creek Guard Station Cab is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed, with some praising the cozy and scenic environment while others criticize the lack of water and maintenance issues. The cabin's lack of running water and occasional cleanliness problems are common themes.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the scenic location, well-stocked kitchen, and seclusion. One reviewer commented, 'Four of us spent a week at the cabin... Great family experience. We look forward to staying in the...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include lack of running water, cleanliness problems, and carpenter ant infestations. One user stated, 'The cabin was really dirty upon arrival... Disappointed that there was no water.'
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing plenty of water, extra cleaning supplies, and alternate light sources due to limited propane lighting. A reviewer suggested, 'Bring a towel or two to use as temp curtains...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Water availability is a recurring seasonal issue, particularly in late fall and winter when it is shut off. Some users report better experiences during warmer months.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Had a great time!' - Colleen G. 2. 'Beautiful scenery surrounding. Would definitely come back.' - Jeff D. 3. 'The hide-a-bed couch is a typical uncomfortable hide-a-bed bed!' - Richard M.
Based on 14 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 001 receives mixed reviews. One user noted, 'It's a fine cabin with good road access,' while another mentioned, 'No running water, and the fridge didn't work.'
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No direct reviews about accessibility features were found, but the cabin is noted as not meeting accessibility standards due to narrow doorways and halls.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one user noted their dog enjoyed swimming in the nearby pond.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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