Pine Valley Guard Station
3.8837 reviewsNorth Pine Valley Road, Pine Valley, UT 84781, USA
Pine Valley Guard Station
$35.00 - $75.00 / 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 rentals range from $35/night during non-peak season (October 9 - December 31) to $75/night during peak season (May 22 - October 8).
About this campground
Step back in time at Pine Valley Guard Station, where the rustic charm of a 1935 Civilian Conservation Corps cabin meets the comforts of modern mountain living. Nestled deep within the Dixie National Forest, this historic hideaway offers the perfect blend of heritage and convenience, with electricity illuminating your evenings and indoor plumbing available during the warmer months. Here, you'll discover what it means to truly disconnect while staying connected to the essentials.
Accommodations primarily consist of cabin lodging, with a historic Civilian Conservation Corps-built Guard Station as the centerpiece.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls have stories to tell. Crafted by the skilled hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1935, Pine Valley Guard Station once served as home base for recreation guards who welcomed and guided forest visitors during America's golden age of outdoor exploration. Today, you'll sleep where these early stewards of the wilderness once planned their days, surrounded by the same timeless forest they worked to protect.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of seasons at 6,800 feet, where summer days invite you to explore sun-dappled trails before retreating to deliciously cool mountain evenings. When winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, the journey becomes part of the adventure—strap on snowshoes or lace up your boots for a magical trek through the snow to reach your cozy cabin retreat. Plan accordingly, as the seasonal gate closure from November through April adds an element of wilderness solitude to your winter escape.
ElevationPerched at 6,800 feet above sea level, Pine Valley Guard Station offers a natural air conditioning system that transforms even the warmest summer days into comfortable adventures. As evening falls, you'll reach for that extra blanket as mountain breezes whisper through the pines. Come winter, this elevation transforms your retreat into a snow globe scene, where every view becomes a postcard and the silence is broken only by the soft crunch of snow beneath your feet.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a symphony of wind through towering ponderosa pines, their vanilla-scented bark catching the morning light as it filters through the canopy. The majestic Pine Valley Mountains frame your view, creating a dramatic backdrop for your mountain memories. This enchanted corner of the forest showcases nature's full palette—from emerald summer meadows dotted with wildflowers to winter's crystalline artistry, all beneath the protective embrace of ancient pines.
Geological RegionDiscover your own private corner of the vast Dixie National Forest, where the Pine Valley Recreation Area unfolds like a living tapestry at 6,800 feet. Here, stately ponderosa pines share the landscape with lush mountain meadows that burst with color each summer, while stands of Engelmann spruce create shadowy groves perfect for afternoon exploration. This diverse ecosystem represents the best of Utah's high country, offering a geological wonderland where volcanic peaks meet ancient forests in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin has a concrete ADA vault toilet. However, accessibility is limited during winter months due to a 1.5-mile hike or snowshoe into the site.
Sites SizeThe cabin is adequately sized for a family of four but may feel tight for six. Beds include a futon couch and bunk beds with mattresses.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited as the cabin is located within a state park with numerous campsites nearby. Several reviews mention visitors mistakenly approaching the cabin.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring water, food, and cleaning supplies; expect limited supplies and amenities during winter. Use the wood stove cautiously as smoke issues have been reported.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 7 consecutive nights per visit. Maximum of 7 nights total within rolling 60 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests can sleep comfortably in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is a standalone rental with features like bunk beds, futon, and outdoor picnic/fire area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season: May 22 - October 8. Non-peak season: October 9 - December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come, first-serve availability. Reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made at least 14 days before check-in incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 14 days) incur an additional fee equivalent to the first night's recreation use fee. No-show reservations are assessed a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
A diverse range of recreational activities are available including hiking, fishing, birding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The nearby Pine Valley Reservoir offers fishing opportunities for rainbow trout.
Hiking
Numerous non-motorized trails provide access into the Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness, including paved trails near the cabin. Some trails are described as serene with ample birdwatching opportunities ('I recorded 28 species of birds').Fishing
Fishing is available at Pine Valley Reservoir, with rainbow trout stocked regularly. Some reviews note catching 8-10 inch trout.Biking
Well-maintained trails make biking an option. One review noted seeing people biking during their visit.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes deer, chipmunks, and bird species such as pygmy nuthatches and blue grouse. One review described deer roaming by the cabin in the evenings.Winter Activities
The winter landscape offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding. Reviews often praise the serene winter environment.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire ring with grill available for outdoor cooking. Indoor wood stove heating may experience maintenance issues.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsSeasonal hazards include snowstorms affecting accessibility. Drinking water contamination reported in user reviews (e.g., E. coli outbreak).
Active alertsActive alerts include seasonal gate closures and potential water contamination issues.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 42%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are accessible through the Pine Valley Ranger District at 435-652-3100.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 22 - October 8.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to 'pack it in, pack it out,' including all trash and food. Limited cleaning supplies are provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Pine Valley Reservoir, which offers fishing opportunities for rainbow trout.
Common complaintsFrequent maintenance issues reported by guests include broken furniture, non-functional appliances, lack of cleanliness, and inconsistent heating.
HostManaged by Pine Valley Ranger District. Contact phone: 435-652-3100.
Campground Map
North Pine Valley Road, Pine Valley, UT 84781, USA
Driving directionsFrom Exit 6 in St. George, Utah, turn north onto Bluff Street, which turns into Utah Highway 18 North; continue to follow for 27 miles. Turn east onto Pine Valley Highway and travel 6.9 miles into Pine Valley. From the Pine Valley stop sign, turn east onto Main Street and follow 2 miles to the Pine Valley Recreation Area. The Guard Station is located a quarter mile past the reservoir parking lot on the north side of the road.
Accessible by vehicle during good road conditions. Winter access may require snowshoeing, hiking, or cross-country skiing 1.5 miles from the winter trailhead at the entrance to the recreation area due to seasonal gate closures.Nearby places
St. George, UT (45-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are not available in Pine Valley, which has no retail stores. Stock up in St. George before arriving.
Camper Reviews
3.9
37 reviews
Pine Valley Guard Station has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Pine Valley Guard Station are mixed, with praise for the location and views, but frequent complaints about maintenance, cleanliness, and furnishings. Winter conditions add a unique charm but require preparation.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Common positive remarks include 'beautiful views,' 'plenty of wood for fires,' and 'a wonderful winter getaway.' Multiple users praise the serenity and proximity to trails and fishing.
Based on 37 reviewsCommon Concerns
Negative feedback focuses on maintenance issues such as broken furniture, dirty conditions, stained bedding, and intermittent problems with amenities like the refrigerator, water heater, and wood...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing plenty of water, warm clothing for winter visits, and backup sleeping arrangements due to uncomfortable beds. Preparation for cleaning and packing trash is essential.
Based on 37 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight the need for water, snowshoes, and light packing due to the 1.5-mile hike. Summer reviews emphasize outdoor amenities, but note issues with locked bathrooms and maintenance.
Based on 37 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The cabin was lovely, quiet and had plentiful supplies.' 2. 'We loved the remoteness of where we were and waking up knowing we were the only ones in Pine Valley.' 3. 'The futon provided in the...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for the cabin include mixed feedback on the futon ('cozy' versus 'broken and gross'), bunk beds ('comfortable' versus 'terribly uncomfortable'), and proximity to amenities like trails and...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility during winter months requires snowshoeing or hiking, which can be challenging for some. No reported accessibility issues for ADA vault toilet.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are explicitly not allowed in the cabin or on the premises.
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025