Packers Cabin
4.156 reviews29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR, 97444, USA
Packers Cabin
$10.00 - $14.00 / 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
Recreation Use fee and reservation fees apply, including $10 cancellation fees for individual sites.
About this campground
Step back in time at Packers Cabin, a lovingly preserved 1930s Forest Service treasure that once served as headquarters for wilderness pack trains. This historic hideaway invites modern adventurers to experience the authentic charm of a bygone era, where rugged simplicity meets accessible comfort in one of Oregon's most storied backcountry cabins.
Packers Cabin offers a unique lodging experience with accommodations for tent camping and group stays. The cabin's rustic nature appeals to those seeking a remote and traditional camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThis weathered gem stands as a testament to the Forest Service's pioneering days of the 1930s, when pack mules and hardy rangers carved paths through untamed wilderness. The cabin's sturdy walls have sheltered generations of forest stewards, and today's careful meadow restoration project continues this legacy of conservation. Each weathered beam and hand-hewn detail tells stories of dedication to protecting these wild lands.
Weather and SeasonsPerched above 2,000 feet, Packers Cabin offers a refreshing mountain climate that's notably cooler than the coast below. Expect crisp mornings averaging 38°F and pleasant afternoons reaching near 50°F. While gentle rains grace the forest about one-third of the time, adding to the mystical atmosphere, snow occasionally dusts the landscape, creating picture-perfect winter scenes. Pack layers and rain gear to fully embrace the mountain's moody beauty.
ElevationAt its lofty perch over 2,000 feet, Packers Cabin offers a true mountain experience where the air is crisp and the stars shine brighter. The elevation creates a natural sanctuary above the coastal fog, though visitors should pace themselves on arrival as bodies adjust to the thinner air. This elevated setting rewards guests with cooler temperatures and a sense of peaceful separation from the world below.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled within a protective grove of towering firs, Packers Cabin overlooks a meadow that's being lovingly restored to its natural splendor. The surrounding Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest unfolds in every direction, showcasing nature's resilience as the landscape regenerates from the 2017 Chetco Bar Fire. This powerful transformation creates a living classroom where visitors can witness the forest's remarkable ability to heal and thrive.
Geological RegionDiscover the crossroads of two legendary mountain ranges at Packers Cabin, where the Cascade Range meets the ancient Siskiyou Mountains in the heart of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. This remarkable convergence zone boasts some of North America's richest biodiversity, with complex plant communities and wild rivers carving through the terrain. The 2017 Chetco Bar Fire has added another chapter to this dynamic landscape, creating a fascinating mosaic of renewal and regrowth that tells the ongoing story of fire's role in shaping these resilient ecosystems.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is designed to meet accessibility standards with ramps, decks, wide doorways, and accessible vault toilets.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate up to 12 people, with additional tent spaces available nearby.
Sites PrivacyThe remote location ensures privacy, surrounded by scenic beauty and recovering landscapes. "This is remote, rustic, and fantastic!" said one user.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring additional firewood and water due to insufficient on-site supply. Tent camping space is available for those desiring a more traditional camping experience.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself, site C1, is the sole campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Up to 14 consecutive nights per visit and 14 nights total within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 12 guests allowed at the cabin.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout with tent spaces available nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but weather and road conditions should be confirmed with the Ranger District prior to arrival.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo data available on walk-up or first-come-first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online up to the day before check-in, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. No-shows incur a $20 fee plus forfeiture of the first night.
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
Packers Cabin offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and stargazing. Visitors can explore nearby forest roads, enjoy scenic vistas, and relax by the cabin's swing and koi pond.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant in the surrounding area, including the Oregon Redwoods Trail, which provides accessible paths through majestic old-growth redwood trees. "There are so many amazing forest roads to hike nearby," noted one user.Fishing
Fishing is available in the nearby Chetco River, offering trout, steelhead, and salmon angling opportunities in season. "Anglers will enjoy the remote location and scenic backdrop of the nearby Chetco River," according to official sources.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as a key activity, with opportunities to observe frogs, newts, and birds in the surrounding area. "Keep your ears peeled for the chirps of frogs in the nearby stream," said one user.Winter Activities
Winter activities include enjoying snow-covered mountain peaks and frostbitten mornings. "We enjoyed frostbitten mornings," mentioned one user.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted within designated rings. Visitors are advised to bring adequate firewood.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential for dehydration due to elevation, limited drinking water availability, and exposure to post-wildfire terrain. Mice in the cabin have also been noted by visitors.
Active alertsNo active alerts reported, but fire or road closures should be confirmed with the Ranger District.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 30%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Gold Beach Ranger District Office: 541-247-3600 (Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM). Nearby town of Brookings offers hospitals and emergency services.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season dates provided.
Trash and recyclingAll garbage and food must be packed out by visitors, as there are no on-site trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Chetco River, offering opportunities for angling trout, steelhead, and salmon.
Common complaintsMaintenance issues include peeling paint, missing shingles, and rotting floor joists. Mice presence noted, and insufficient firewood supply during colder seasons.
HostNo specific host information provided. Gold Beach Ranger District should be contacted for any on-site assistance.
Campground Map
29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR, 97444, USA
Driving directionsFrom Portland, take I-5 South to US 199 South to Brookings. From Brookings, Oregon, take U.S. Highway 101 and turn onto County Road 784 (North Bank Chetco River Road). This becomes Forest Road 1376. Follow Forest Road 1376 to the junction with Forest Road 1917. Follow Forest Road 1917 for 5 miles to Forest Road 1917-110, the entrance to Packer’s Cabin. Travel time from Brookings is about 1.5 hours, easily accessible by highway and Forest Service roads.
The site is easily accessible by highway and Forest Service roads, although portions of the drive involve a 1-lane paved road with potholes and ruts, especially on Forest Road 1917. During the rainy season, a truck or 4x4 is recommended. Travel time from Brookings is approximately 1.5 hours.Nearby places
Brookings (17 miles, approximately 1.5 hours drive), Gold Beach (local urban center).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Brookings (17 miles away), including grocery stores, fuel stations, and outdoor supply shops.
Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Packers Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Packers Cabin has received generally positive reviews, with an average sentiment score of 4.1. Highlights include the rustic charm, stunning stargazing opportunities, and the cabin's historical significance, while some users pointed out maintenance issues and logistical challenges.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the cabin's historical charm, stunning natural surroundings, accessibility, and opportunities for stargazing and wildlife observation. "The stars are TO...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on maintenance issues, such as missing roof shingles, deteriorating siding, and the presence of mice in the attic. "The roof is missing some shingles...the siding has fallen...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra water and firewood due to limited on-site resources. "Pack more water and wood than you think you'll need," advised one user. Another noted that during rainy seasons, a...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the cabin is enjoyable year-round but requires preparation for seasonal challenges such as cold temperatures in winter and limited resources during certain times.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"This is now one of my favorite places. Does it need a coat of paint? Yes. Is it cold at night because the wind whips through all the cracks in the siding? Yes. But there is just something about it...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to campsite C1 note its charm and challenges. "Many wonderful memories have been made and we will be back," said one user, highlighting the remote and rustic nature.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Users confirm accessible features such as ramps and vault toilets. "The cabin and restroom are accessible," shared one user.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the facility, and users appreciated the pet-friendly policy. "So quiet, beautiful spot, dog friendly," commented one user.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025