Cowpuncher Guard Station
4.5811 reviewsP.O BOX 246
Cowpuncher Guard Station
$45.00 - $45.00 / 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 nightly rate for the cabin during peak season (May 30 - November 30) is $45. This does not include taxes, reservation fees, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Escape to Cowpuncher Guard Station, where a charming rustic cabin awaits beneath towering pines and shimmering aspens in the heart of Dixie National Forest. This hidden gem beckons those seeking solitude, with Pine Creek's gentle murmur providing the soundtrack to your mountain retreat. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, exploring forest trails, or simply savoring the profound quiet from your cabin porch, this secluded haven offers the perfect basecamp for authentic wilderness experiences.
Cowpuncher Guard Station primarily offers cabin lodging, providing a unique, rustic camping experience. Primitive and tent camping options are not explicitly mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where ancient history meets natural wonder. Your mountain refuge serves as a gateway to some of the Southwest's most treasured cultural sites. Venture to the nearby Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, where geological time unfolds in technicolor layers. Discover the mysteries of ancient civilizations at Anasazi State Park, or marvel at rainbow-hued petrified wood in Escalante Petrified Forest State Park—each destination weaving together threads of human heritage and natural history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformation of this high-country paradise. Summer days invite exploration with comfortable warmth, while evenings call for campfires as mountain air brings refreshing coolness. When winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, the journey becomes part of the adventure—accessible only by snowmobile or cross-country skis, the guard station transforms into an exclusive winter wonderland. Spring and fall paint the forest in spectacular colors, with crisp, dry conditions perfect for outdoor pursuits.
ElevationPerched at 8,000 feet where the air is crisp and clear, Cowpuncher Guard Station offers a true high-altitude escape. Here, summer temperatures remain delightfully moderate—warm enough for afternoon adventures, cool enough for restful nights under star-studded skies. The surrounding slopes climb even higher to 8,900 feet, creating a natural amphitheater that captures both morning sun and evening alpenglow.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover your own private meadow sanctuary, where pine and aspen groves create a living cathedral around the historic cabin. Pine Creek dances through the landscape, its crystal waters offering both a soothing melody and promising fishing holes. At 8,000 feet, this alpine oasis delivers spectacular contrasts—morning mist rising through evergreens, golden aspen leaves trembling in autumn breezes, and wildlife moving quietly through their natural habitat. Birds fill the forest canopy with song, while deer and elk occasionally grace the meadow edges at dawn and dusk.
Geological RegionNestled within Dixie National Forest's diverse ecosystem, Cowpuncher Guard Station occupies a fascinating ecological crossroads. Here at 8,000 feet, lush mountain meadows and dense conifer forests create an emerald island rising above the surrounding high desert landscape. This dramatic elevation change showcases nature's versatility—where else can you wake among whispering pines and aspens, then drive to explore ancient red rock canyons and painted desert vistas, all within a single day's adventure?
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible parking and accessible vault toilets are mentioned. Accessibility in winter requires snowmobiles or skis.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious enough for a small group, and includes furnishings and a covered porch.
Sites PrivacyCowpuncher Guard Station sits in a secluded meadow surrounded by pine and aspen groves, offering a private and peaceful environment.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests recommend bringing jigsaw puzzles, games, and fishing supplies for Pine Creek. Keeping the gates closed is essential to prevent cows from intruding.
Best CampsitesThe single cabin at Cowpuncher Guard Station is the highlight of the campground.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay during peak season is 7 consecutive nights. Total stay limit per year is 10 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Multiple guests are allowed in the cabin, including bunk and full-size beds.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe single cabin is located in a meadow with amenities including a picnic table, fire ring, and vault toilet 150 ft. away.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen and reservable from May 30 - November 30 each year. During winter, roads are often closed due to snow.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo mention of walk-up availability. Reservations must be made online in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made 14 days or more before arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee. Late cancellations for cabins within 14 days of check-in will also forfeit the 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Cowpuncher Guard Station can enjoy various recreational activities including hiking the nearby Great Western Trail, mountain biking, horseback riding, and trout fishing in Pine Creek. The area also offers scenic drives on Hells Backbone Road and visits to nearby Posey Lake.
Hiking
Hiking trails including the Great Western Trail are accessible from the cabin. The trails cater to different skill levels and are popular for exploration.Fishing
Pine Creek offers excellent trout fishing opportunities, with Colorado Cutthroat Trout being a notable species. Users recommend fly fishing or Tenkara rods for optimal results, emphasizing catch-and-release practices.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible from the cabin and cater to various skill levels.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, providing opportunities for observation while maintaining a safe distance.Winter Activities
During winter, access requires snowmobiles or skis due to snow-covered roads. No specific winter sports mentioned.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are provided near the cabin.
Hazards
General hazardsWinter access is challenging due to snow. Wildlife may be present but not a significant concern. Fence repair and occasional cow intrusion have been noted.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 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
The nearest emergency services are likely located in Escalante, including medical facilities, police stations, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 30 - November 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingNo garbage service is provided. Visitors are expected to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is near Pine Creek, which is excellent for trout fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with the gate lock, water contamination (restored quickly), and occasional noise from fence repairs.
HostNo specific host information is provided.
Campground Map
P.O BOX 246
Driving directionsFrom Highway 12 in Escalante, turn north on 300E. Drive 14 miles to the junction of Forest Roads 154 and 153. Continue on FR153 for 4.5 miles. Turn left on FR145 towards Cowpuncher and Blue Spruce Campground. Travel 0.7 miles to Cowpuncher Gate. The cabin is 0.2 miles past the gate.
Access can be difficult during wet weather and requires driving 14 miles of dirt road with some steep sections. During winter months, the last 5.5 miles require a snowmobile or skis.Nearby places
Escalante (20 miles northeast, approximately 30 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, camping essentials, and fuel are available in Escalante, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
11 reviews
Cowpuncher Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty, tranquility, and well-maintained facilities at Cowpuncher Guard Station. Positive sentiments emphasize the cabin's comfort, trout fishing, and peaceful surroundings. Negative feedback includes occasional maintenance issues and water supply disruptions.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the cabin's cleanliness, comfort, and scenic location. "This place was heaven in the woods," wrote one reviewer. Others appreciated the fishing opportunities, wildlife presence, and the...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with water supply, fence repair noise, and difficulty operating the gate lock. "Lots of banging for fence repair," noted one reviewer, and another mentioned water...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring trash bags and paper towels, as noted by one user. Fly fishermen are advised to practice catch-and-release for the Cutthroat Trout. Visitors should plan for long nights without TV and...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight warm days and cool nights, with easy access to trails and fishing. Winter reviews caution about limited access due to snow-covered roads, requiring snowmobiles or skis.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Heaven in the woods." "The solar shower and Fabreeze in the latrine were awesome touches." "Better than anticipated." "The cabin has lots of places to sleep, and the memories made here will last a...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific issues reported included difficulty with the gate's combination lock. Fishing experiences near the cabin were particularly praised.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is seasonal, with winter access requiring additional equipment. Vault toilets and parking are accessible.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025