Podunk Guard Station
4.4621 reviews225 E CENTER ST, Panguitch, UT, 84759
Podunk Guard Station
$30.00 - $30.00 / 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 cabin rental fee is $30 per night during peak season (May 23 - October 18). This does not include taxes, reservation fees, or other incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Podunk Guard Station, where a lovingly preserved 1928 Forest Service cabin invites you to experience the authentic charm of Utah's high country. Nestled deep within Dixie National Forest, this historic retreat serves as your gateway to pristine wilderness adventures. Wake to the sound of the East Fork Sevier River gurgling nearby, spend your days exploring scenic mountain trails, and cast a line into crystal-clear waters where native trout still swim. As night falls, settle into the warmth of your rustic cabin and imagine the generations of forest rangers who once called this remote outpost home.
Podunk Guard Station offers a cabin rental for up to six guests, providing a primitive, remote camping experience. No tent or RV camping is available on-site.
Historical SignificanceSince 1928, this weathered cabin has stood as a silent witness to nearly a century of forest stewardship. Built when the Forest Service was still young, Podunk Guard Station sheltered countless rangers who patrolled these remote mountains on horseback, watching for fires and protecting the wilderness. Each hand-hewn log and well-worn floorboard tells stories of dedication and solitude, of men and women who chose the wild places over comfort. Today, you can add your own chapter to this continuing story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Utah's mountain seasons at Podunk Guard Station. Summer brings perfect hiking weather with pleasantly warm days averaging 74°F, while crisp mountain nights dip to a refreshing 42°F—ideal for stargazing from your cabin porch. September paints the landscape in golden aspens as temperatures moderate to comfortable 68°F days and cool 37°F evenings. By October, autumn's full splendor arrives with invigorating 57°F afternoons giving way to frosty 27°F nights that hint at the approaching winter wonderland.
ElevationTucked into a secluded mountain valley high in the Utah backcountry, Podunk Guard Station offers that rare combination of accessibility and remoteness that mountain seekers crave. The surrounding peaks create a natural amphitheater that captures both morning sunlight and evening alpenglow, while the valley's protected position provides shelter from harsh mountain winds.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to a landscape painted by nature's finest brush—towering spruce sentinels stand guard over emerald meadows where wildflowers dance in the mountain breeze. The East Fork Sevier River threads through this high valley like a silver ribbon, its banks lined with rustling willows that shelter browsing deer at dawn and dusk. Prairie dogs whistle warnings from their burrows in the sunny meadows, while lucky visitors might glimpse the majestic silhouette of elk moving through the forest shadows at twilight. This is wilderness as it was meant to be experienced—intimate, unspoiled, and achingly beautiful.
Geological RegionPodunk Guard Station rests in one of southern Utah's hidden treasures—a narrow mountain valley carved by the patient work of the East Fork Sevier River through the ancient bedrock of Dixie National Forest. This geological sanctuary combines the best of Utah's diverse landscapes: the cool, moist environment supports magnificent stands of mature spruce more reminiscent of the Rockies, while sun-drenched meadows recall the region's high desert heritage. Willow-lined stream banks create ribbons of green through the valley floor, offering a stark contrast to the rugged peaks that rise dramatically on all sides. It's a place where the Colorado Plateau meets the Great Basin, creating a unique ecosystem that supports an exceptional diversity of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described in the provided sources.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a remote area surrounded by mature spruce trees and riverbanks, offering a secluded experience. However, user reviews have noted interruptions from ATV riders and visitors accessing the vault toilet.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring water, linens, cooking supplies, bug spray, and firewood. AWD/4WD vehicles recommended but not mandatory.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 is the only available site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 6 nights per visit and 14 nights total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 6 guests.
Groups
No group camping facilities are available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo-room cabin with bunk beds, futon, kitchen table, Adirondack chairs on the porch, picnic tables, charcoal grill, and fire ring outside.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from May 23 to October 18. Non-reservable and closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; advance reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before arrival are subject to a $10 service fee. Late cancellations for cabins within 14 days of check-in will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Modifications to reservations charge a $10 fee if dates are changed entirely.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities suitable for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular options include hiking, mountain biking, off-roading, fishing, swimming, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Nearby Tropic Reservoir provides opportunities for boating, canoeing, and fishing.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible directly from the cabin, including the Paunsaugunt, Fremont, and Great Western OHV Trail Systems. User reviews also mention proximity to Bryce Canyon and Crawford Pass, which are highly praised hiking destinations.Fishing
Fishing opportunities exist in the East Fork Sevier River and nearby Tropic Reservoir. Anglers can catch brook, rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout.Swimming
Swimming is available in the East Fork Sevier River near the cabin.Biking
Mountain biking is a popular activity, with trails accessible directly from the cabin.Boating
Boating is available at Tropic Reservoir, which is located 15 minutes from the cabin. Visitors have noted that the reservoir is ideal for kayaking and SUP.Wildlife viewing
The area around the cabin is rich in wildlife, including deer, elk, prairie dogs, and even moose sightings as mentioned by user reviews.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowshoeing or cross-country skiing are not explicitly mentioned in the official sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding, are available at Tropic Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire rings; fresh firewood required.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters include deer and elk. Bug spray is recommended due to high insect activity. Cows may wander onto the property despite fences.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6 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
Closest ranger station: 435-676-9300 (Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. MT). Closest city for medical facilities and emergency services: Panguitch, UT.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23 to October 18.
Trash and recyclingNo trash and recycling facilities are available. Campers are responsible for packing out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to East Fork Sevier River; 8.5 miles from Tropic Reservoir.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints from user reviews highlight ATV visitors using the on-site toilet, intruding on privacy, and lack of a gate to restrict unauthorized entry.
HostThe local ranger station is reachable at 435-676-9300 during weekdays.
Campground Map
225 E CENTER ST, Panguitch, UT, 84759
Driving directionsFrom Panguitch, turn onto State Highway 89 and travel 7 miles to State Highway 12. Drive 8 miles on Highway 12 to East Fork Road/Forest Road 30087. The sign at this junction will say, 'Tropic Reservoir - 8 miles.' Travel south on this well-maintained, two-lane dirt road for 16 miles. Podunk Guard Station will be on the east side of the road. From Bryce Canyon National Park, travel on Highway 12 for 5 miles to East Fork Road/Forest Road 30087. The sign at this junction will say, 'Tropic Reservoir - 8 miles.' Travel along this well-maintained, two-lane dirt road for 16 miles. Podunk Guard Station will be on the east side of the road.
The access road is a well-maintained, two-lane dirt road suitable for most vehicles, including Toyota Prius, as per user reviews. AWD/4WD could be beneficial but is not strictly necessary. The first 7 miles of the dirt road are reported as washboardy, requiring careful driving.Nearby places
Panguitch: 15 miles, Bryce Canyon National Park: 35 minutes by car.
Nearby supplies
Visitors are advised to bring all supplies as there are limited facilities on-site. Firewood must be purchased elsewhere as collecting on-site is prohibited. Potable water can be acquired at Tropic Reservoir Campground (8.5 miles away).
Camper Reviews
4.5
21 reviews
Podunk Guard Station is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's remote location, tranquil setting, and proximity to outdoor activities. While many visitors appreciated the solitude and wildlife, some expressed frustration with disruptions caused by ATV riders and visitors accessing the vault toilet.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cabin's serene environment, proximity to Bryce Canyon, and nearby Tropic Reservoir for kayaking and fishing. Wildlife sightings, such as deer and elk, were frequently mentioned. The...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Multiple reviews expressed frustration over the lack of a secure gate, which allowed ATV riders and other visitors to access the property and vault toilet, disrupting the tranquility. Other...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including drinking water, linens, cooking utensils, and lighting. Bug spray is essential to combat mosquitoes. For boating enthusiasts, Tropic...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is most popular in summer and early fall, with visitors enjoying outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and kayaking. Winter reviews are sparse, likely due to colder temperatures and...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The cabin is remote and quiet. The road in very well graded, dirt road. Google maps says an hour to Bryce, but it's more like 35 minutes.' - Danielle S.
2. 'The stove kept the cabin warm and we...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews indicate that site 001 Loop POGS is the only site available, offering a rustic cabin experience. Positive feedback includes cleanliness, wildlife, and proximity to attractions, while negative...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly addressed in user reviews.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed inside the cabin, as confirmed by authoritative sources and user reviews.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025