Murderers Creek Guard Station
3.9119 reviewsPrairie City Ranger District: 327 SW Front Street, P.O. Box 337
Murderers Creek Guard Station
$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
Peak season nightly fee for cabin is $50. Out-of-season booking is not available. Additional fees may apply, such as reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 through contact center, $3 in person).
About this campground
Step back in time at Murderer's Creek Guard Station, where a charming one-room cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience in Oregon's Malheur National Forest. This rustic hideaway invites couples and small groups to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's rhythms. While the cabin offers essential modern comforts, the experience remains delightfully simple—you'll need to bring your own water and bedding, adding to the sense of self-sufficient adventure. From this cozy basecamp, endless trails wind through ancient forests, wildlife roams freely, and the spirit of the Old West still whispers through the pines.
Murderer's Creek Guard Station is a cabin rental facility offering rustic accommodations without modern camping amenities.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls have stood sentinel since 1913, bearing witness to over a century of forest stewardship. Once home to early Forest Service rangers who patrolled vast wilderness territories on horseback, this guard station represents one of the Malheur's most treasured historic structures. Imagine the stories these timbers could tell—of rangers setting out to battle wildfires with little more than shovels and determination, of long winter nights spent recording forest observations by lamplight, and of the gradual evolution from frontier outpost to beloved recreational retreat.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different portrait at Murderer's Creek. Summer arrives with warm, dry days perfect for exploration, though by late season the namesake creek may run low, creating a golden landscape of sun-baked meadows. Winter transforms the guard station into a snow-globe scene, where pristine white blankets the forest and crisp air demands cozy layers and crackling fires. Spring and fall offer their own magic with moderate winds carrying the scents of wildflowers or autumn leaves. Smart visitors pack for mountain weather's quick-change artistry, knowing that preparation enhances rather than hinders the adventure.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 5,000 feet above sea level, the guard station offers that perfect mountain elevation where the air feels crisp and clean, the stars shine brilliantly close, and every sunrise feels like nature's private show.
Natural Features and SceneryAt 5,000 feet, Murderer's Creek Guard Station sits like a jewel amid a tapestry of open meadows and towering ponderosa pines. The surrounding landscape reads like a naturalist's dream journal—mixed conifer forests give way to the remarkable Cedar Grove Botanical Area, while the nearby creek corridor serves as a wildlife highway. Here, wild horses thunder across meadows in early morning light, mule deer browse quietly at forest edges, majestic elk bugle during autumn evenings, and pronghorn antelope dance across distant ridges. Throughout the growing season, wildflowers carpet the meadows in waves of color, creating an ever-changing canvas that photographers and nature lovers cherish.
Geological RegionThe Malheur National Forest unfolds around the guard station in a magnificent display of Oregon's Blue Mountain geology. This landscape tells an ancient story written in volcanic peaks, carved creek valleys, and rolling meadows that stretch toward Aldrich Mountain's prominent silhouette. The forest's diverse ecosystem—from sun-drenched ponderosa stands to dense mixed conifer groves—creates a mosaic of habitats that support remarkable biodiversity. Murderer's Creek itself winds through this terrain like a lifeline, its path marking centuries of geological patience and providing a natural corridor for both wildlife and wonder.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground does not provide specific accessibility features or information.
Sites SizeThe cabin has limited space but includes a driveway suitable for RV parking and adjacent grassy areas for tents.
Sites PrivacyThe location is described as "quiet, peaceful, and private" in multiple user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests should bring inflatable bedding or mattress pads due to discomfort on the futon. Early mornings or dusk are recommended for wildlife viewing.
Best CampsitesCampsite 01 is the sole site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Suitable for 2 guests. Guests can also use RV parking adjacent to the cabin if needed.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle rustic cabin with adjacent RV parking, garage building, fire pit, and vault toilet. Yard space available for tents.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 6 to November 15 each year. Reservable dates start from June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or related phone services.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability. All reservations must be made in advance on Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies, plus forfeiture of first night's fee for cabins if cancellation is made within 14 days of check-in. Modifications carry a $10 fee for changing dates completely. Late cancellations may incur additional penalties.
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
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests can enjoy various activities around Murderer's Creek Guard Station, such as wildlife viewing, birding, hiking, hunting, and fishing. The proximity to Cedar Grove Botanical Area and South Fork John Day offers unique outdoor recreational opportunities.
Hiking
"Guests can hike area trails, explore the Cedar Grove Botanical Area, and hike nearby scenic locations like Fields Peak and Seneca's Strawberry Mountain." User reviews highlight the peacefulness and beauty of these trails.Fishing
Fishing is available at Murderer's Creek and South Fork John Day, although "area creeks run dry toward summer's end." A user review notes, "Fishing in the creek was good."Wildlife viewing
The area is known for abundant wildlife, including wild horses, mule deer, elk, antelope, bighorn sheep, bear, and cougar. "We tried to spot wild horses but failed," one user states, recommending early morning or dusk for better chances.Winter Activities
Snow activities such as hiking might be possible during winter but are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Limited fire pit with grill available outdoors. Guests must adhere to forest fire safety policies.
- Quiet hours are unspecified, but the site is naturally private and secluded.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, rodents, bees, and other wildlife. Guests should use proper food storage methods and be prepared for possible encounters.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 13.2 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
The nearest emergency services include the Blue Mountain Hospital in John Day (approximately 32 miles away) and local police services in John Day.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 6 - November 15
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to carry out all trash before leaving. There are no recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is approximately 100 feet from Murderer's Creek, which runs dry in late summer.
Common complaintsComplaints include the outdated futon bed, presence of rodents, occasional issues with lock combinations, and bees near the cabin.
HostNo onsite host. Guests should contact the Prairie City Ranger District for assistance.
Campground Map
Prairie City Ranger District: 327 SW Front Street, P.O. Box 337
Driving directionsFrom Burns, travel North on Highway 395 approximately 55 miles to County Road 63. Turn left on County Road 63 to the junction of Forest Service Road 21. Take a right onto Forest Service Road 21 and travel approximately 16 miles to the guard station. From John Day, OR., travel approximately 18 miles west on US Highway 26 to the junction with Forest Road 21. Turn south (left) on Forest Road 21, travel 12 miles to the guard station.
The site is accessible via paved roads. However, nearby forest roads are unpaved and can be rough. Seasonal road closures or weather conditions may affect access; guests are advised to confirm road conditions before visiting.Nearby places
John Day (32 miles, approximately 40 minutes), Dayville (30 miles, approximately 35 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies, groceries, and fuel can be obtained in John Day, approximately 32 miles away.
Camper Reviews
3.9
19 reviews
Murderers Creek Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Murderer's Creek Guard Station are mixed, with some praising the serene location and rustic charm, while others criticize issues such as mice, outdated bedding, and problems accessing the cabin. "Great place to get away and enjoy nature," one user states, while another notes, "Bring a cover sheet or blanket for the futon as it is soiled."
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the beautiful night skies, peaceful location, and abundant wildlife as key positive aspects. "The fridge and stove worked perfectly," one user remarked. Another stated, "Fantastic...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues such as a poor-quality futon mattress, mice infestations inside the cabin, and occasional problems with the door lock code. "Bring your own bedding like cots or something,"...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra water, bedding, and a tarp for the futon. "Bring double the water you think you'll need," one user advises. Another suggests, "Check your reservation code on-site as...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews mention snow and peaceful isolation, while summer reviews note active wildlife and dry creek beds. Fall reviews speak of clear skies and stargazing opportunities.
Based on 19 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Loved this little cabin," "Cute little rustic cabin, suitable for one person or a couple," "The futon was replaced on 6/4, so was brand new when I got there," "Bring a phillips screwdriver in case...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews focus on the single cabin available, emphasizing its rustic charm but pointing out critical issues like rodent activity and futon quality.
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific accessibility reviews, nor are such features mentioned.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at this facility; no reviews address pet experiences.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025