Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins
4.228 reviews57600 McKenzie Highway
Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins
$3.00 - $8.00 / 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
Reservation fees are $8 if made online, $9 via contact center, $3 if made in person. Recreation use fees for cabins may vary.
About this campground
Step back in time at the Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins, where two lovingly preserved 1924-era structures await your winter adventure. Perched at 3,200 feet in the enchanting Santiam Pass Winter Recreation Area, the Hall House and Commissary Cabin offer a rare glimpse into Oregon's forest service heritage. Each rustic retreat comes thoughtfully equipped with cozy beds, warming propane heat, and gentle solar-powered lighting. Your journey begins with an invigorating one-mile trek through snow-draped wilderness, whether you choose to hike, ski, or snowshoe from Lava Lake Sno-Park—making the arrival at these hidden gems all the more rewarding.
The campground is focused on cabin rentals and does not support tent, trailer, or RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls have stories to tell. Built in 1924, the cabins once echoed with the boots of firefighters and the gentle nickering of horses that helped protect these forests. Today, you can explore remnants of this fascinating past—the original dispatcher's cabin stands as a silent sentinel, while the historic fire hose shelter reminds visitors of the brave souls who once called this place home. Just beyond, the legendary Old Santiam Wagon Road traces the footsteps of Oregon's pioneers, adding another layer to this tapestry of history.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this mountain sanctuary into a pristine wonderland, where temperatures dance between a crisp 28°F and mild 41°F. Nature's artistry alternates between gentle snowfall and misty rain, creating an ever-changing canvas of weather patterns. The cabins come alive with visitors from winter through early spring, when the landscape sparkles under fresh powder and the forest whispers with the promise of adventure.
ElevationAt 3,200 feet above sea level, this mountain retreat exists in that magical elevation where winter truly comes alive. Here, the air is crisp and pure, the snow falls deep and pristine, and every breath reminds you that you've climbed into Oregon's winter wonderland—high enough to escape the valley's rain, yet accessible enough for your perfect mountain getaway.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering evergreens stand like ancient guardians around your cabin, their branches heavy with snow and secrets. Through the forest canopy, glimpses of Fish Lake reveal nature's seasonal magic trick—a glittering shallow lake in winter that transforms into a wildflower meadow by late summer. This living landscape hosts an impressive cast of wildlife: majestic Roosevelt elk move through morning mist, black bears forage in distant clearings, bald eagles soar overhead, while black-tail deer and elusive bobcats leave their tracks in fresh snow. Every window frames a postcard, every trail promises discovery.
Geological RegionNestled within the Willamette National Forest's stunning Santiam Pass Winter Recreation Area, these cabins rest in a geological wonderland shaped by ancient volcanic forces and carved by centuries of weather. The surrounding dense evergreen forest creates a natural cathedral, while Fish Lake's remarkable seasonal transformation from winter waters to summer meadow showcases the dynamic interplay between elevation, precipitation, and time. This unique ecosystem represents the very heart of Oregon's Cascade wilderness, where volcanic soils nurture towering forests and create the perfect conditions for winter recreation.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGuests must walk, cross-country ski, or snowshoe approximately one mile to access the cabins from Lava Lake Sno-Park, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe cabins are small to medium-sized, equipped for basic accommodations.
Sites PrivacyThe cabins provide privacy as separate rental units, but the area does not offer significant seclusion from other visitors.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews recommend bringing additional lanterns, a shovel, axe, and buckets for water disposal, as these items are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in by key access.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 3 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each cabin accommodates approximately 4 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of two rental cabins, Hall House and Commissary Cabin, located within a historic depot compound.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season spans winter through early spring.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is noted; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made less than 14 days before the arrival date incur a $10 fee and loss of the first night’s recreation fee. Late cancellations, no-shows, and early departures may not be eligible for refunds. Modifications outside original reservation dates require a $10 fee.
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
The campground is a hub for winter recreation and historical exploration. Recreational opportunities include wildlife viewing, snowmobiling, hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and birding. The historic character of the cabins adds cultural interest.
Hiking
Guests can enjoy trails through dense evergreen forests surrounding the cabins, as well as motorized and non-motorized trail access near Lava Lake Sno-Park and Ray Benson Sno-Park.Wildlife viewing
The area provides prime habitat for wildlife such as Roosevelt elk, black bears, bald eagles, black tail deer, and bobcats. Guests can enjoy wildlife viewing in the surrounding forest.Cultural and Educational Programs
The cabins themselves are historically significant, offering visitors a chance to explore structures from the 1920s and learn about the area's history through interpretive signs.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and access to seven Sno-Parks for trail opportunities.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits outside cabins.
Hazards
General hazardsNotable hazards include crossing the highway to access the trail, icy and snowy trail conditions, and potential rodent infestations in cabins.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.4 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
McKenzie River Ranger District office, located at 57600 McKenzie Highway, Mckenzie Bridge, OR. Office hours are 8:00 AM–4:30 PM, Monday–Saturday during summer, Monday–Friday the rest of the year. Contact: 541-822-3381.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out their own trash; no on-site trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Fish Lake, which is shallow in winter and transforms into a meadow in late summer.
Common complaintsConcerns include rodent infestations in cabins, inefficient propane heaters, challenges with crossing the highway in winter, and issues with cabin doors not closing properly.
HostInterpretive hosts may be present from mid-June through Labor Day. Contact the McKenzie River Ranger District at 541-822-3381 for updated information.
Campground Map
57600 McKenzie Highway
Driving directionsFrom Salem, take Highway 20 east through Sweet Home. Approximately 45 miles east of Sweet Home, Lava Lake Sno-Park will be on the north (left) side of the highway. From Eugene, take Highway 126 east to Highway 20 (approximately 70 miles). At the intersection, turn west (left) and drive about a quarter mile. You will see Lava Lake Sno-Park on the north (left) side of the highway. From Bend, take Highway 20 towards Sweet Home. Traveling west, a quarter mile past the intersection of Highways 20 and 126, Lava Lake Sno-Park will be on the north (right) side of the highway. You must park your vehicle(s) at Lava Lake Sno-Park. Oregon State Sno-Park permits are required for parking November 1-April 30. From Lava Lake Sno-Park, cross the highway and follow the blue diamond trail markers. You may hike, cross-country ski, or snowshoe (approximately one mile) to the cabin.
The campground is accessible via paved roads to the Lava Lake Sno-Park, where the trail to the cabins begins. Oregon State Sno-Park permits are required during November 1–April 30. However, crossing the highway to access the trail presents safety challenges in icy or snowy conditions, as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Sweet Home (~45 miles east), Eugene (~70 miles northeast), Bend (~70 miles west).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are not directly mentioned but should be sought in nearby towns, such as Sweet Home or Eugene.
Camper Reviews
4.2
8 reviews
Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reveal mixed experiences at the Fish Lake Remount Depot Cabins. While many highlight the historical significance and beautiful surroundings, others express concerns about rodents and inadequate heating systems in the cabins.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the historical value of the cabins and the scenic winter surroundings, calling it a 'great piece of history' and 'a remarkably well-preserved historic US Forest Service Guard...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include rodent infestations, subpar heating systems, and the inconvenience of crossing a highway to access the trail leading to the cabins.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing plenty of water, extra lighting, and cleaning supplies due to the lack of these provisions at the cabins. Some suggest the Forest Service should permit parking at the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter is the most popular season for visiting the cabins due to access to Sno-Parks and winter recreation activities. However, guests report challenges such as crossing icy roads and snow-filled...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Just a parking lot? Or is it, a lot of interesting history, cabins from the 1920 era, lake views, a must see.' - Richard McGuire (2021)
2. 'A remarkably well preserved historic US Forest Service...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include complaints about rodent infestations at Commissary Cabin (C01) and challenges with cabin doors and heating systems at Hall House (H01).
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Access to the cabins requires navigating icy roads and snowy trails, which may be difficult for visitors with limited mobility.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the campground.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025