Tamarack Cabin
4.7418 reviewsP.O BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA
Tamarack Cabin
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$40.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Booking fees are $40 per night during the peak season (May 8 - November 1). Additional fees may apply for reservations or late cancellations. Discounts may be available for eligible Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Perched high atop Tamarack Mountain, this remarkable cabin invites adventurers to experience a piece of living history. Once a vital fire lookout station, the cozy converted shed now welcomes up to four guests seeking an extraordinary escape. Wake to panoramic vistas that stretch endlessly across the horizon, step directly onto mountain trails from your doorstep, and discover the perfect blend of rustic charm and essential comforts in this sky-high sanctuary.
Tamarack Cabin provides a single rustic cabin, suitable for up to four people. It is equipped with minimal amenities, emphasizing a primitive yet cozy camping experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into a legacy that began in 1925, when vigilant fire spotters first climbed this mountain to protect the surrounding forests. Though the original lookout structure gave way to time, its spirit lives on in this 1966 utility shed thoughtfully transformed into a mountain retreat. The towering 96-foot Aermotor tower still stands sentinel beside the cabin, a striking monument to the brave souls who once scanned these horizons for smoke and danger.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration, though wise visitors keep watch for the dramatic dry lightning storms that occasionally illuminate the evening sky during fire season. As autumn arrives, crisp mountain air carries the promise of changing seasons. The cabin rests peacefully under winter's blanket of snow during its seasonal closure, awakening each spring to welcome new adventures.
ElevationAt nearly 5,000 feet above sea level, this mountain-top retreat offers a refreshing escape where the air is crisp, clear, and noticeably thinner. The elevation gifts visitors with naturally cooler temperatures and views that seem to stretch forever, though newcomers to these heights should pace themselves as they adjust to the rarified mountain atmosphere.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your 4,979-foot vantage point, watch as morning light filters through groves of majestic western larch, their golden needles shimmering in autumn's embrace. Spring and summer paint the meadows with vibrant brushstrokes of purple lupine, delicate yarrow, and sunny balsamroot, while western tanagers flash their brilliant plumage among the branches and dusty flycatchers perform aerial acrobatics in pursuit of insects. This living tapestry of mountain wilderness creates an ever-changing panorama of natural beauty.
Geological RegionNestled within the dramatic landscape where the Blue and Wallowa Mountains converge, Tamarack Mountain commands sweeping views of the storied John Day River Basin below. This unique position places you at the heart of a geological wonderland, where ancient volcanic peaks frame horizons and western larch forests create a distinctive ecosystem found nowhere else. Here, brilliant western tanagers dart between the distinctive conifers, adding splashes of color to an already spectacular mountain tableau.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin is moderately sized, providing enough space for up to four people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a secluded setting, but user reviews note that visitors frequent the lookout tower near the cabin, which can impact privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend bringing a high-clearance vehicle, additional lighting for nighttime use, and packing food securely to avoid attracting mice or wildlife.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole site available, highly rated for its views and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 4 guests per cabin reservation.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin includes one room with bunk beds, a table, chairs, and a small front porch. Nearby amenities include an outdoor picnic table and fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 8 to November 1 during peak season. Closed for reservations during the winter months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe cabin is not available for walk-up reservations; all stays must be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 14 days before check-in with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations incur an additional penalty, including forfeiting the first night's fee. Modifications within the original reservation dates are free of charge.
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
Tamarack Cabin offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, horseback riding, fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. Over 26 miles of trails are accessible from the cabin, and there are 28 miles of designated off-road vehicle trails in the surrounding area.
Hiking
There are over 26 miles of hiking trails accessible from the cabin. User reviews praise the trails for their scenic views and peaceful atmosphere.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in nearby streams and Bull Prairie Lake. No specific details about fish types are available.Biking
Biking is possible on nearby roads, per user reviews who mention biking as a relaxing activity during their stay.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing and bird watching are popular activities near the cabin. Species such as western tanagers and dusty flycatchers are frequently spotted.Winter Activities
The site is closed in the winter, prohibiting activities during this season.Water Sports
No water sports information is available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are generally prohibited from July to September. Visitors must verify current restrictions with the Ranger District before arrival.
- Quiet hours are Unspecified in authoritative sources.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep and rocky roads requiring high-clearance vehicles, high cliff areas posing risk to children, and local wildlife such as hornets and snakes.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions apply during summer months. Visitors are advised to contact the Ranger District for updated conditions.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.7 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
Heppner Ranger District Office (541-676-9187)
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 8 - November 1
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash as the facility lacks trash and recycling services.
Proximity to water featuresNo water is onsite. A muddy spring with frogs and tadpoles is located nearby.
Common complaintsNoise from visitors to the nearby lookout tower and littering were noted in some reviews. Steep roads also pose challenges for low-clearance vehicles.
HostReviews mention positive experiences with staff, including clean facilities and helpful fire watch personnel.
Campground Map
P.O BOX 7, HEPPNER, OR 97836, USA
Driving directionsFrom Lexington, OR, take Highway 74/207 east to Heppner. Continue south, on Highway 207. At the junction in Heppner, bear right to continue south on Highway 207 for 39 miles through Heppner, Ruggs, Hardman and past Anson Wright County Park to the junction of Highway 207 and Forest Road 24 (0.1 miles past the Bull Prairie Campground turn-off). Turn left (east) on FR 24 (a gravel road) and travel 6.5 miles to FR 2407. Turn right (south) on FR 2407 and travel 1.5 miles to FR 040. Travel a half-mile on FR 40 to the cabin, which is on the right before the helipad. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended for access as the last mile to the cabin is very steep and rocky.
Access to the cabin requires navigating gravel and rocky roads. "The last mile to the cabin is very steep and rocky; a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended." Large RVs or trailers are not suitable due to tight turns and rough terrain.Nearby places
Heppner (1-hour drive), Spray (30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Spray offers a general store with gas and propane, approximately 30 minutes away. Heppner provides a larger selection of recreational supplies and is about one hour away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
18 reviews
Tamarack Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Tamarack Cabin as cozy, clean, and well-maintained, with breathtaking views of Tamarack Mountain. While the cabin itself is appreciated for its rustic charm and well-stocked amenities, some guests have noted issues with privacy due to visitors frequenting the nearby lookout tower.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mention the cleanliness of the cabin, the scenic views, the well-stocked amenities, and the relaxing atmosphere. Guests particularly appreciate the propane heater and...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include occasional noise from visitors to the nearby lookout tower, insufficient lighting from propane lamps, and rocky roads requiring high-clearance vehicles. Some guests also noted...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing a vehicle with high clearance, extra lighting such as lanterns, and sufficient water due to the lack of on-site supplies. Other tips include cleaning up food scraps to avoid...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Most reviews indicate that the cabin is best visited during spring and summer, when wildflowers bloom and hiking trails are accessible. Visitors frequently praise the pleasant weather during these...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful area and views! The cabin was clean and in such good shape! Mornings and evenings were incredibly peaceful." - Sydney B
"The cabin was spotless! Great job preparing for us!" - Rod A
"We...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews pertain to the single cabin available for rental and are overwhelmingly positive, with average ratings close to 5 stars.
Based on 18 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at Tamarack Cabin, and reviewers appreciate this policy. However, some pet owners have noted challenges, such as nearby visitors leaving food scraps that can attract wildlife, which...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025