Mt Terrill Guard Station

Star0
1 review
Fishlake National Forest, 115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT, 84701
Mt Terrill Guard Station
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Facility rates for Mt Terrill Guard Station are $50 per night during the peak season from June 10 through October 30. Out-of-season bookings are not...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
435-896-9233

About this campground

Perched high in the heart of Fishlake National Forest at 9,800 feet, Mt Terrill Guard Station offers adventurers a unique mountain retreat that blends rustic charm with endless outdoor possibilities. This historic cabin serves as your gateway to alpine adventures, from casting lines in pristine waters to exploring rugged trails on foot or OHV. While the cozy interior sleeps six, the station's expansive grounds welcome up to 50 guests total, with ample space for RVs and tents beneath towering conifers. Here, you'll find yourself immersed in the raw beauty of Utah's high country, where each day brings new discoveries.
The Mt Terrill Guard Station offers a unique camping experience with its rustic cabin accommodations. The site supports tent and RV camping outside the cabin, making it versatile for different camping preferences.
Historical SignificanceWhile specific historical records remain elusive, Mt Terrill Guard Station stands as a testament to the Forest Service's enduring legacy of wilderness stewardship, offering modern adventurers a glimpse into the solitary life of forest guardians who once called these remote outposts home.
Weather and SeasonsAt nearly 10,000 feet, Mt Terrill Guard Station experiences the dramatic personality of mountain weather. Summer days invite you outdoors with warm sunshine and gentle breezes, perfect for exploration and relaxation. As evening approaches, temperatures drop significantly, creating crisp nights ideal for stargazing and campfire gatherings. Mountain weather can shift unexpectedly, transforming blue skies to dramatic thunderheads in moments—part of the authentic high-altitude experience that keeps visitors coming back.
ElevationAt 9,800 feet above sea level, the guard station rests in an enchanting alpine meadow embraced by a protective circle of conifers. This lofty perch places you among the clouds, where the air is crisp and pure, and the landscape stretches endlessly beneath vast mountain skies.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a high-altitude paradise where wildflower meadows burst with color each July, painting the landscape in vibrant purples, yellows, and whites. Towering conifers stand sentinel around the station, their evergreen boughs providing both shelter and a stunning backdrop. Wildlife thrives here—watch for graceful deer grazing at dawn and majestic elk moving through the shadows at dusk. To the east, the commanding presence of Mt Terrill rises to 11,547 feet, its peaks catching the first light of sunrise. Westward, Lost Creek Reservoir mirrors the sky in its pristine waters, offering scenic beauty despite its fishless depths.
Geological RegionThis remarkable high-elevation ecosystem showcases the diverse beauty of Fishlake National Forest at 9,800 feet. The guard station's meadow setting represents a delicate alpine environment where geology and biology intersect—ancient soils nurture July's spectacular wildflower displays while providing habitat for the deer and elk that have roamed these mountains for generations. Surrounded by coniferous forests that have adapted to the thin air and short growing seasons, this geological wonderland offers visitors a front-row seat to the powerful forces that shaped Utah's mountainous terrain.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific information regarding accessibility features is provided.
Sites SizeThe Guard Station can accommodate up to 50 people on the site, with a limit of 6 people sleeping inside the building.
Sites PrivacyNo specific information about site privacy is provided.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBest suited for groups who can utilize both the cabin and outdoor areas. Guests should bring all necessary supplies, including water and lighting.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite is available—the cabin itself.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Stay limit is unspecified.
Guests Allowed Per Site
  • Maximum of 50 guests allowed per reservation
  • only 6 can sleep inside the cabin.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe site consists of one rustic cabin with a vault toilet, fire circle, benches, and picnic table outside.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 10 - October 30. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations for Mt Terrill Guard Station can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe site is not available for walk-up use; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) also 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

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Mt Terrill Guard Station is a hub for a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, OHV riding, biking, and hunting. These activities leverage the natural landscape and nearby reservoirs to provide diverse experiences.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available in the area, though specific trail details such as length and difficulty are not provided.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at nearby Johnson Reservoir (7 miles away) and Fish Lake (15 miles away). Other small fishing ponds, such as Gates Lake and Salina Reservoir, are also in the area. Lost Creek Reservoir does not support fishing.
Biking
Biking is listed as one of the recreational opportunities available in the surrounding area, but no details about specific trails or terrain are provided.
Boating
Boating activities are supported at Fish Lake, which offers boat rentals 15 miles south of the Guard Station.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted as a popular activity. Deer and elk are frequently seen in the area.
Winter Activities
No specific details about winter recreation activities are provided, but given the high elevation, snow-related activities may be feasible.
Water Sports
No specific details about non-motorized water sports are provided, though boating at Fish Lake is mentioned.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Guests may use the fire circle located near the cabin. Firewood may not be available; guests should plan accordingly. Avoid moving firewood to prevent tree pests.

Hazards

General hazardsThe high elevation can lead to sudden weather changes, and guests should be prepared for all types of conditions. No water is available on-site, so guests must bring their own.

Weather forecast

30
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 45%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 9.4 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

The closest emergency services are in Salina, approximately 30 miles northwest of the guard station. Salina offers hospitals, police stations, and general emergency care.

Good to know

Peak season datesJune 10 - October 30
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Guests are required to pack out all trash they bring in.
Proximity to water featuresJohnson Reservoir is 7 miles away and Fish Lake is 15 miles south, both offering fishing and boating opportunities. Lost Creek Reservoir is nearby but does not have fish.
Common complaintsNoise from upper road traffic has been mentioned in user reviews. Some guests may find the lack of water and electricity inconvenient.
HostThe site is unstaffed. Guests can contact the main office at (435) 896-9233 for assistance.

Campground Map

Fishlake National Forest, 115 East 900 North, Richfield, UT, 84701
Driving directionsFrom Salina Utah travel 7 miles east on Interstate 70 to the Gooseberry Exit #63. Go south on the two-lane paved Gooseberry road #640 for about 22 miles to the Mt Terrill Guard Station. The gravel access road is west of the paved road and is about a quarter mile to the cabin. From Fish Lake travel 8 miles on SR25 to Johnson Reservoir, then turn left onto the paved Gooseberry Road #640 for about 7 miles to the Mt Terrill Guard Station.
The guard station is accessible via the paved Gooseberry Road #640. The gravel access road from Gooseberry Road is approximately a quarter mile, making it fairly easy to reach.
Nearby places
Salina (30 miles southeast), Fish Lake (15 miles south), Johnson Reservoir (7 miles south)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials can be found in Salina, 30 miles northwest of Mt Terrill Guard Station, or at Fish Lake 15 miles south, which also offers food services and boat rentals.

Camper Reviews

0.0
1 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited Reviews
Mt Terrill Guard Station has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback predominantly highlights the tranquility of the location and its suitability for a quiet retreat. Some noise from nearby road traffic was noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews

What Campers Love

The cabin's rustic charm and the peaceful environment are frequently praised. The proximity to diverse recreational activities is also appreciated.
Based on 1 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from upper road traffic was mentioned as a minor inconvenience. The lack of on-site water and garbage facilities requires extra preparation.
Based on 1 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests should bring all essentials, including water, bedding, cooking supplies, and lighting. Pack out all trash and be prepared for variable weather conditions.
Based on 1 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews highlight the area's beauty in summer, with wildflowers in bloom and abundant wildlife. The high elevation suggests cooler nights.
Based on 1 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Great place. Quiet except for upper road traffic." - Gary P., September 2023
Based on 1 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews are provided beyond general commentary about the Guard Station.
Based on 1 reviews

Accessibility Features

No user reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 1 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No pets are allowed in the Guard Station, and no related reviews are provided.
Based on 1 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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