Caretakers Cabin
4.158 reviewsP.O. BOX 158, UKIAH, OR 97880, USA
Caretakers Cabin
$80.00 - $80.00 / 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 fee for the Caretaker's Cabin is $80 per night across all seasons. This fee does not include reservation service fees, taxes, or any incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at the Caretaker's Cabin, where 1930s elegance meets modern comfort in the heart of the historic Fremont Powerhouse site. This captivating mountain retreat welcomes up to 10 guests into a world where claw-footed bathtubs and vintage furnishings tell stories of a bygone era, while electric lights and heaters ensure your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable. Perfect for milestone celebrations, intimate weddings, or multi-generational family gatherings, this historic gem offers an extraordinary escape where every corner whispers tales of the past.
Caretakers Cabin provides a mix of cabin lodging and primitive camping opportunities. Guests can rent the cabin and use the grassy yard for pitching tents.
Historical SignificanceBuilt during the transformative 1930s, the Caretaker's Cabin stands as a living monument within the prestigious Fremont Powerhouse Historic District, proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This architectural treasure bears witness to an epic chapter in American history, when roaring mining camps gave way to the hum of hydroelectric innovation. Here, the echoes of gold and silver prospectors mingle with the legacy of early power pioneers, creating a tapestry of stories that enriches every stay.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of mountain seasons at their finest. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland where snow blankets the forest and adventure seekers arrive by snowmobile or snowshoe, creating memories worthy of a vintage postcard. As summer unfolds, mild temperatures paint perfect days for exploring forest trails, spotting wildlife at dawn, and savoring cool mountain evenings under star-filled skies. Each season brings its own magic to this high-country retreat.
ElevationPerched at an invigorating 5,000 feet above sea level, the cabin offers the perfect mountain climate year-round. This elevated sanctuary delivers refreshingly cool summers that provide sweet relief from valley heat, while winter brings the kind of snow-globe scenery that makes mountain lovers' hearts sing. The crisp, clean air at this altitude awakens your senses and reminds you why mountain escapes feel so rejuvenating.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled on a scenic Blue Mountain hillside at 5,000 feet, the cabin is embraced by a majestic forest cathedral of towering Ponderosa pines, stately lodgepole pines, and graceful Douglas-firs. This pristine wilderness serves as nature's grand theater, where black bears amble through meadows, elk bugle at twilight, and elusive cougars and wolves remind visitors of the wild's enduring presence. Lucky guests might spot the distinctive black-backed woodpecker or hear the haunting call of a boreal owl echoing through the moonlit forest.
Geological RegionThe cabin finds its home in the spectacular Blue Mountains, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning beauty. This elevated paradise at 5,000 feet showcases nature's diversity through magnificent stands of Ponderosa pine, lodgepole pine, larch, and Douglas-fir that paint the mountainsides in varying shades of green. The region's unique geography creates a perfect storm of conditions: bone-chilling winters that transform the forest into a crystalline wonderland, followed by delightfully mild summers that invite endless exploration.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include parking beside the cabin and limited mobility requirements for reaching the site. However, no specific ADA accommodations are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate up to 10 guests and additional tent camping space is available on the grassy yard.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is semi-private and sits on a hillside under a large spruce tree surrounded by a grassy lawn. It is in proximity to three other cabins in the area.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests should bring extra utensils, bowls, glasses, and other cooking supplies. Tall individuals should be cautious of low stairs.
Best CampsitesCaretaker's Cabin is the only accommodation at this site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in by 11:00 AM
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights during any visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 10 guests.
Groups
The cabin accommodates up to 10 guests, with additional space for tent camping in the grassy yard, but does not have a designated group site for larger parties.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCaretaker's Cabin sits on a hill beside Miner’s Retreat and is part of a cluster of four cabins interconnected by grassy lawns.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is open for reservations year-round with limited water availability from October to May.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come-first-served availability is mentioned. Reservations are required for all stays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night’s fee for cancellations made within 14 days of check-in. Late cancellations or changes on the check-in date may not be supported.
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
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Caretakers Cabin provides a variety of recreational activities for guests. Hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing are among the popular activities in the area. Seasonal activities such as huckleberry and mushroom picking add unique experiences for campers. Nearby Olive Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Hiking
Guests can hike on the North Fork John Day Wilderness trails, which offer scenic views and varying levels of difficulty.Fishing
Fishing is available at nearby Olive Lake, which is less than 7 miles away from the cabin. The lake is described as primitive and beautiful, and campers often spend afternoons fishing, swimming, or having picnics.Swimming
Swimming is permitted at Olive Lake, which features two boat docks and a perimeter trail. Kids can swim directly off the docks.Biking
Mountain biking is available on forest roads surrounding the cabin.Boating
Boating opportunities are available at nearby Olive Lake. Although specific types of boats are not mentioned, the lake features a primitive and scenic environment for water activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a major highlight, with species such as black bear, cougar, wolves, elk, and deer present in the area. Bird watchers can look for species like the black-backed woodpecker, American kestrel, and boreal owl.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. The cabin remains warm and suitable for winter stays with electric heating.Water Sports
Guests can partake in water sports such as swimming and boating at nearby Olive Lake. The lake offers peaceful and scenic conditions for these activities year-round.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated areas only if approved by the ranger district. Fire bans may be in effect seasonally.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards include black bears, cougars, and wolves. Winter access may be hazardous due to snow and lack of cell phone coverage.
Active alertsWinter access through FS Road 52 can be treacherous. Visitors are urged to verify road conditions before travel.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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 District Ranger office provides emergency support. Granite, less than 6 miles away, has basic services such as groceries and fuel. For more advanced medical services, travelers may need to rely on larger population centers like Baker City.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 to September 30 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to follow a 'pack it in, pack it out' policy for garbage and recycling, and bring their own bags.
Proximity to water featuresOlive Lake is approximately 7 miles away, offering fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention inadequate cleaning supplies, mouse droppings, and broken items. Guests also remarked on shortage of silverware and drinking glasses.
HostOne host, Mitch, is noted for providing tours of the Fremont Powerhouse and maintaining the grounds. He is described as knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 158, UKIAH, OR 97880, USA
Driving directionsFrom Pendleton, Oregon: Travel south on Highway 395 for 50 miles to the Ukiah exit. Turn left on Highway 244 to Ukiah. Turn right (south) just before the city park; this road becomes Forest Service Road (FSR) 52 at the Forest boundary. Travel 50 miles to the small town of Granite. From Granite go west on County Road 24 for approximately 6 miles. The main road veers left along the creek bed. At this junction turn right (uphill) on FSR 10 and follow the signs to the Fremont Powerhouse, towards Fremont Congo Gulch Cabin. Do not use between October and June without confirming this route is open with the Ranger District. From Baker City, Oregon: Travel west on Highway 7 and continue 20 miles to the junction with FSR 73. Proceed north through Sumpter and another 17 miles to the small town of Granite. From Granite go west on County Road 24 for approximately 6 miles. The main road veers left along the creek bed. At this junction turn right (uphill) on FSR 10 and follow the signs to the Fremont Powerhouse, towards Fremont Congo Gulch Cabin. This route is plowed in the winter and provides the only winter access.
Road access varies seasonally. FS Road 52 is not maintained in winter, limiting access between October and May to the Baker City route. Visitors using FS Road 52 during these months should confirm road conditions with the District as heavy snow can cause vehicles to get stuck.Nearby places
Granite (6 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and fuel can be found in Granite, less than 6 miles from the cabin. Additional supplies may be required from cities like Baker City or Pendleton.
Camper Reviews
4.2
8 reviews
Caretakers Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Caretakers Cabin are generally positive, emphasizing its rustic charm, historical value, and family-friendly atmosphere. Reviewers appreciate the quiet environment without cell service and unique opportunities to experience a simpler lifestyle, although there are some concerns about cleanliness and outdated amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praised the cabin's cozy atmosphere, historical significance, and remote location. Many reviews highlight the enjoyment of communal activities like dining and playing games at the large family...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent issues include lack of sufficient kitchen supplies (e.g., forks, bowls, glasses), cleanliness problems such as mouse droppings, and outdated or broken amenities like the bathtub and vacuum...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing additional kitchen supplies, drinking glasses, and paper towels. They also advise tall individuals to beware of low stair clearance. Many suggest exploring Olive Lake and...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter guests appreciate the cabin's warmth due to electric heating and note the need to use the outhouse as water is shut off during this time. Summer visitors enjoy swimming and fishing at Olive...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Make sure you bring anything necessary for cooking as what is there looks like it was left behind by others." - Megan Salvage
2. "Great little cabin." - Ray C
3. "The boys had a day off of school...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The cabin site (Site 01, Loop: Area Caretakers Cabin) is widely reviewed by visitors. While most appreciate the site's historical charm and family-friendly layout, some have noted cleanliness...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities, but parking access beside the cabin and flat areas such as the grassy yard may provide basic...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the cabin and seem to enjoy the environment, as noted by reviewers. However, pets are required to be leashed at Olive Lake and certain trails.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025