Imnaha Guard Station
3.787 reviewsImnaha Guard Station
$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
Cabin costs $80 per night during peak season (May 17 - Nov 4). No reservation available during out-of-season periods. Late cancellation fees and reservation fees apply.
About this campground
Tucked away at 3,800 feet in Oregon's pristine wilderness, Imnaha Guard Station beckons travelers seeking an authentic backcountry retreat. This historic cabin sanctuary combines rustic charm with thoughtful comforts—propane-powered appliances, flush toilets, and fresh mountain water flow reliably, while the absence of electricity invites you to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural rhythms of the forest. Here, where towering old-growth giants stand sentinel, you'll discover what cabin life was meant to be.
The Imnaha Guard Station offers a unique lodging experience in a rustic cabin setting. Additionally, a small Forest Service-managed campground with four campsites is available within sight of the cabin. The cabin provides a secluded atmosphere with fenced privacy, although user reviews note occasional disruptions.
Historical SignificanceStanding as a living monument to centuries past, the remarkable 300-year-old Douglas-fir near the station has witnessed the transformation of this landscape from wilderness to protected haven. At nearby Imnaha Springs, nature performs its timeless artistry as crystal-clear rivulets dance through emerald moss carpets, their banks adorned with cheerful yellow monkey flowers—a scene that has enchanted visitors for generations and remains unchanged by time.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather paints each season with its own dramatic palette at Imnaha. Winter wraps the station in crystalline snow and frequent rainfall, creating a wonderland best appreciated by the hardy few. As spring melts into summer, the forest awakens with wildflowers and warming temperatures, making late spring through early fall the golden window for visitors. Cool mountain air persists even in summer months, offering sweet relief from valley heat below.
ElevationPerched at 3,800 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Imnaha Guard Station offers a true mountain experience. This elevation brings refreshingly cool temperatures year-round and the possibility of surprise snowfall even in shoulder seasons. The altitude creates perfect conditions for stargazing through crystalline air and waking to misty mornings that reveal the forest in layers as the sun climbs higher.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of ancient trees where Douglas-fir, white fir, and incense cedar tower overhead, their canopy filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Ponderosa, sugar, and western white pines add their distinctive silhouettes to this old-growth tapestry. The crown jewel stands nearby—the magnificent 'Big Tree,' a 300-year-old Douglas-fir whose massive trunk and soaring crown inspire quiet reverence. This living forest sanctuary offers endless discoveries for those who venture beyond the cabin door.
Geological RegionNestled in the southwest reaches of Oregon's majestic Cascade Range, Imnaha Guard Station sits at the heart of one of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular old-growth ecosystems. The surrounding forest showcases nature's diversity with its mix of Douglas-fir, white fir, incense cedar, and three distinct pine species. The geological treasure of Imnaha Springs reveals the volcanic origins of this landscape, where ice-cold water emerges crystal-clear from deep within the mountain, creating an oasis that has sustained life here for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for the Imnaha Guard Station.
Sites SizeThe cabin is designed to sleep 4 occupants, and nearby campsites are small with only four sites visible from the cabin area.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin's yard is fenced, offering some degree of privacy from the nearby campground with four sites. However, user reviews suggest that privacy can be compromised due to occasional intrusions.
Total Campsites4 campsites
Recommended CampsitesExtra guests can camp at nearby numbered campsites. Bring lanterns/flashlights due to lack of electricity.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified, but reservation rules may apply.
Check-out
Not specified, but reservation rules may apply.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Designed to sleep 4 occupants
Groups
No group sites are specifically mentioned for this campground.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCabin fenced within sight of small Forest Service campground with four numbered sites.
Open and Closed SeasonMay 17 - Nov 4.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability specified; reservations required.
Cancellation Policy"You can cancel the reservation any time before the date of your scheduled arrival. You will receive a refund for your stay, minus a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and a late cancellation penalty of your first night's 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
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Imnaha Guard Station offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily focused on hiking and birdwatching. Guests enjoy exploring nearby trails such as those leading to Sky Lakes Wilderness and Lower South Fork. Birdwatching enthusiasts may encounter chickadees, Steller's jays, and the dilapidated woodpecker, the largest woodpecker native to North America. As one reviewer noted, "Make sure to check out the springs! Bring a water container to bring home some of the purest water you can taste!" Wildlife viewing is another popular activity, and the springs near the cabin provide a serene and picturesque setting.
Hiking
Multiple trailheads and trails are within driving distance of the Imnaha Guard Station. These include Blue Canyon Trailhead, Alta Lake Trailhead, and Lower South Fork Trail. Hiking opportunities range from easy to moderate difficulty, and the trails offer scenic views and access to wilderness areas.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is one of the highlighted activities at Imnaha Guard Station. Common species include nuthatches, chickadees, Steller's jays, and varied thrushes. Guests may also hear the drumming of the dilapidated woodpecker and observe other wildlife in the old-growth forest surrounding the cabin.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly detailed. However, wheeled-vehicle access to the campground is restricted during winter months due to snow conditions.Water Sports
No specific mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood provided at the start of the season but not guaranteed; intended for indoor use only. "Visitors should bring matches."
Hazards
General hazards"Fresh bear scat has been reported in some reviews. Visitors are advised to watch their dogs."
Active alerts"Entry through the access gate and to the cabin is by combination lock. Visitors should check road and fire conditions by calling (541) 560-3400."
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 25%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
"This location is unstaffed. For emergencies, contact the main office at (541) 560-3400."
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 17 - Nov 4.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all garbage and food, as trash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water features"Imnaha Springs is just up a trail behind the cabin. The springs are ice cold and crystal clear." Nearby attractions include Lost Creek Lake.
Common complaintsMixed reviews cite issues with maintenance and cleanliness. "Fence destroyed by cattle," "cow dung around the springs," and "cabin cleanliness not up to standard" are common concerns.
Host"This location is unstaffed. Contact the main office for general information at (541) 560-3400."
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Butte Falls, OR, drive east on the Butte Falls - Fish Lake Highway (County Road 821). Less than a mile from town, turn left onto the Butte Fall - Prospect Highway (County Road 992) and travel north on County Road 992. Go 9 miles on County Road 992 to Forest Road 34. Turn right, go 8 miles on Forest Road 34 until its junction with Forest Road 37. Travel north / northeast on Forest Road 37 for 4.5 miles. Take Imnaha Campground turn-off and continue through campground to find the cabin. From Prospect, OR, at the Prospect Hotel turn east onto the Butte Falls - Prospect Highway (County Road 992), travel 2 or 3 miles and take a left onto Forest Road 37, which continues south to Imnaha Campground turn-off. Wheeled-vehicle access is possible only from late spring through early fall, depending on snow conditions.
"Wheeled-vehicle access is possible only from late spring through early fall, depending on snow conditions." Roads may include various forest routes, requiring careful navigation.Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
3.8
7 reviews
Imnaha Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Imnaha Guard Station are highly mixed. Positive themes include the natural beauty of the area, the rustic charm of the cabin, and enjoyable activities like birdwatching and hiking. However, several reviewers have noted serious concerns regarding cleanliness, maintenance, and disruptions caused by cattle and other visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the serene beauty of the surroundings, rustic cabin charm, birdwatching opportunities, and proximity to trails and springs. Comments such as "Such a beautiful cabin in the middle of the...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Criticisms include poor maintenance of the cabin and surrounding area, lack of cleanliness, issues with cattle damaging fences and contaminating the springs, occasional disruptions from visitors, and...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing adequate lighting (lanterns or flashlights) due to the lack of indoor lighting, checking out the nearby springs for fresh water, and packing cleaning supplies due to...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews vary by season, with fall and summer being popular due to accessibility and favorable weather. Winter appears challenging due to snow conditions and restricted vehicle access. Concerns about...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Such a beautiful cabin in the middle of the woods!" (suhridkhan) 2. "Make sure to check out the springs! Bring a water container to bring home some of the purest water you can taste!" (Chris and...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific mentions include issues at campsite C1, such as cattle damage and cleanliness concerns, while others praise the site for its rustic charm and proximity to springs and trails. Ratings for the...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences for campers with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and one user noted the importance of keeping dogs leashed due to wildlife presence, including fresh bear scat observed near the cabin.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025