Fry Meadows Guard Station
4.1512 reviews1415 W. ROSE
Fry Meadows Guard Station
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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
Nightly rate for the cabin is $40 during peak season (May 15 - November 13). Rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or additional fees.
About this campground
Step back in time at Fry Meadows Guard Station, where the whispers of history blend with the gentle rustling of ancient firs. This 1935 Civilian Conservation Corps masterpiece beckons those seeking authentic wilderness experiences, offering a rare chance to sleep where forest rangers once kept watch over these pristine lands. Tucked beneath a canopy of towering spruce and fir, this rustic cabin welcomes up to six guests into a world where meadows stretch endlessly and wildlife roams freely—a true sanctuary for those yearning to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature's timeless rhythms.
Fry Meadows Guard Station primarily features cabin lodging, accommodating up to six people indoors with additional tent camping allowed in the yard. It offers a unique combination of rustic comforts and outdoor camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceThese walls hold stories spanning nearly a century. Built in 1935 during America's Great Depression, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps crafted this sturdy refuge with their own hands, creating a base for forest rangers who would protect these woods for the next 45 years. But the human connection runs far deeper—for thousands of years before any cabin stood here, the Nez Perce, Umatilla, Walla Walla, and Cayuse peoples walked these meadows, hunted these forests, and held these lands sacred. Today, visitors can feel the layers of history beneath their feet, from ancient tribal paths to Depression-era craftsmanship.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Fry Meadows with its own distinct palette. Spring arrives with refreshing rains that awaken the wildflowers, while autumn wraps the forest in crisp air and golden light. Winter transforms this retreat into a snow-dusted wonderland where temperatures dip below freezing, creating a cozy haven for those who embrace the cold. Summer unfolds as nature's grand performance, with warm days perfect for exploring trails, spotting wildlife, and losing yourself in the endless blue skies above the meadows.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation where the air feels crisp and pure, Fry Meadows sits at that perfect altitude where meadows thrive and evergreens reach their full majesty—high enough to escape summer's heat, yet accessible throughout most of the year.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a symphony of birdsong as morning light filters through ancient spruce and fir sentinels. Step outside to find yourself at the edge of a wildflower tapestry—purple lupine dancing with blue larkspur while delicate monkey flowers add splashes of color to the verdant meadow. This is a place where deer graze at dawn, elk bugle in autumn, and hawks circle overhead on thermal currents. For bird enthusiasts, it's paradise: ruby-throated hummingbirds dart between blooms, violet-green swallows sweep across the meadow, while the melodic songs of wrens, warblers, and tanagers create nature's soundtrack from sunrise to sunset.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Umatilla National Forest, Fry Meadows occupies a special corner of the Pacific Northwest's geological wonderland. Just south of the rugged Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness and west of the spectacular Grande Ronde Wild and Scenic River, this location serves as a gateway to some of Oregon's most treasured landscapes. Here, ancient volcanic forces and millennia of erosion have sculpted a terrain of rolling meadows framed by dense coniferous forests—a testament to the powerful natural forces that shaped this corner of the Blue Mountains.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetailed information on accessibility features for individuals with disabilities is unavailable.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six guests indoors, with additional tent camping allowed in the yard.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers secluded privacy, located in a remote area surrounded by towering spruce and fir trees.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrepare for a rustic experience by bringing drinking water, sleeping bags, flashlights, and garbage bags. Avoid relying on Elgin-based directions due to inadequate signage.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only campsite and is highly praised for its rustic charm and proximity to nature.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in information not explicitly provided.
Check-out
Check-out information not explicitly provided.
Stay Limit
- Up to 14 nights during a visit
- cannot exceed 14 nights total within 30 rolling days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests can stay in the cabin, and additional guests may pitch tents in the yard.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with adjacent meadow area for pitching tents.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for vehicle access and reservations from mid-May to mid-November.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information is explicitly provided regarding walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellation fees include forfeiting the first night's use fee (if canceled less than 14 days before arrival). No refunds for cancellations after check-in date start.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Fry Meadows Guard Station offers a range of activities suitable for nature enthusiasts seeking solitude and leisure. Popular pastimes include wildlife viewing, hiking, hunting, and seasonal berry and mushroom picking. Users have highlighted stargazing and birdwatching as favorite activities due to the area's tranquility and natural beauty.
Hiking
The nearby Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness offers over 200 miles of managed trails suitable for hiking and horseback riding during summer months. Trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views of the surrounding wilderness.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby Grande Ronde Wild and Scenic River, which is noted for salmon and steelhead fishing. No specific details about permits or fishing conditions were provided.Boating
Float boating is available in the Grande Ronde Wild and Scenic River. The sources do not specify details about docking facilities or types of boats allowed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight at Fry Meadows, with sightings of deer, elk, hawks, turkeys, and various bird species such as hummingbirds, chickadees, and warblers. Evening hours are particularly good for observing grazing animals.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the area may be challenging during colder months due to lack of heating reliability, as noted in user reviews.Water Sports
Float boating is supported at the nearby Grande Ronde Wild and Scenic River. Details about other water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are unavailable.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Check current fire restrictions before arrival. It is recommended to burn firewood obtained near the camping destination.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPossible exposure to hantavirus in remote cabins. Guests should exercise caution and click the provided link for more information. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and hawks in the area.
Active alertsGuests should check current fire restrictions and closures before arrival.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
For emergencies, contact Walla Walla Ranger District at 509-522-6290. Closest emergency medical and police services are in Walla Walla, OR.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - November 13
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash as this is a 'pack in-pack out' facility. Visitors should bring garbage bags for waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresLocated west of the Grande Ronde Wild and Scenic River, offering opportunities for float boating, salmon, and steelhead fishing.
Common complaintsSome visitors noted issues with heat and fumes from propane heaters, minor insect problems due to torn screens, and lack of signage for directions from Elgin.
HostNo specific host information provided for this campground.
Campground Map
1415 W. ROSE
Driving directionsFrom Weston, Oregon: Travel 20 miles east of Weston on Highway 204. Turn left (north) onto Forest Service Road 64 and follow it for approximately 11 miles to the junction with Forest Service Road 63. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 63 and travel about 8.8 miles to the junction with Forest Service Road 62. Turn left onto Forest Service Road 62 and travel for 3.9 miles to Forest Service Road 6235. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 6235 and travel for about 1.1 miles to the Fry Meadows Guard Station, which will be on the right.
From Elgin, OR, drive on the Elgin-Palmer Junction County Road for about 15 miles to the junction with the Lookingglass Road/FSR 63. Go down Lookingglass Road for about 2 miles to the end of the pavement; FSR 63 starts here. Continue on FSR 63 for about 4.7 miles to the junction with FSR 62. Turn right on FSR 62 and travel about 3.9 miles to FSR 6235. Turn right on FSR 6235 and travel about 1.1 miles to the Fry Meadows Guard Station, which will be on the right.
Roads are generally in good condition and passable by most vehicles, except during snow conditions. Access is seasonal, typically mid-May to mid-November, as indicated: 'Generally, Fry Meadows can be accessed by vehicle from mid-May to mid-November, and parking is available at the cabin.'Nearby places
25 miles northeast of Elgin, Oregon.
Nearby supplies
General stores and gas stations are available in Elgin, Oregon (approximately 25 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.2
12 reviews
Fry Meadows Guard Station is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Fry Meadows Guard Station are positive, highlighting its rustic charm, wildlife sightings, and quiet surroundings. Issues such as lack of water and occasional difficulties with propane heaters were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
1. Rustic charm of the cabin built in the 1930s era.
2. Wildlife sightings like deer, elk, and turkeys.
3. Scenic surroundings and clear night skies for stargazing.
4. Comfortable sleeping...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
1. Lack of water on-site, requiring visitors to bring their own supply.
2. Occasional issues with propane heating.
3. Some users struggled with unclear directions from Elgin, Oregon.
4. Screens with...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a sufficient supply of water for drinking and washing. Prepare for bugs in summer with repellents or bug swatters. Use the road leading to Jubilee Lake for better signage and road conditions.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Positive sentiments are common during spring and fall when wildlife viewing and cool temperatures are ideal. Winter visits may be challenging due to potential propane heating issues and cold weather.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'This was a great place for a fall getaway. The Forest Service updated the interior a few years ago with new floors and furniture and it was in pretty good shape during my visit.' - Cheryl Hill
2....
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Feedback for campsite 001 includes positive ratings for cleanliness, wildlife presence, and general comfort. Users mentioned the absence of water as a minor inconvenience and expressed appreciation...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept leashed and outside. User reviews did not explicitly mention pet-specific experiences.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025