Suiattle Guard Station
01 review1405 EMENS STREET, DARRINGTON, WA 98241, USA
Suiattle Guard Station
$3.00 - $10.00 / 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 reservation fee is $8 for bookings made online or through the app, $9 through the contact center, and $3 for in-person reservations. Recreation use fees may vary by site type and duration.
About this campground
Step back in time at Suiattle Guard Station, where a century-old log cabin whispers stories of wilderness rangers past. Hand-built in 1913 by Forest Ranger Tommy Thompson, this rustic retreat nestles deep in the untamed backcountry, offering modern adventurers a rare chance to disconnect from the digital world. Your days here unfold with the rhythm of the wild—cast a line into pristine waters, navigate thrilling whitewater rapids, or explore trails that wind through ancient forests where few footsteps have fallen.
The Suiattle Guard Station is a historic cabin that offers a unique lodging experience with room for additional tent and RV camping on-site.
Historical SignificanceThis weathered log cabin stands as a testament to the early days of forest conservation, when brave rangers like Tommy Thompson built their outposts by hand in 1913. Now proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places, these timber walls have sheltered generations of forest guardians who protected these wild lands. Every hand-hewn log and carefully fitted stone tells the story of America's conservation heritage and the dedicated individuals who shaped our modern forest service.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms this wilderness sanctuary into a snow-draped wonderland, where temperatures plunge and heavy snowfall creates a pristine, if challenging, landscape for the truly adventurous. As summer arrives in July and August, the forest awakens with wildflowers and warm sunshine, creating perfect conditions for hiking sun-dappled trails, swimming in crystal-clear river pools, and stargazing beneath unpolluted skies.
ElevationNestled in the mountain wilderness where alpine air carries the scent of pine and adventure awaits at every turn.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering old-growth giants create a natural cathedral around the cabin, their ancient branches sheltering a world where black bears amble through huckleberry patches and bald eagles soar overhead. The crystalline Suiattle River rushes past your doorstep, its glacier-fed waters teeming with native fish. Lucky visitors might glimpse elusive bobcats padding through the understory or hear the bugle of elk echoing across the valley. On clear mornings, the snow-crowned summit of Mt. Baker—an active volcano draped in eternal ice—dominates the horizon like a sleeping giant.
Geological RegionYour wilderness escape lies within the spectacular Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, where jagged peaks pierce the sky and hidden alpine lakes mirror the clouds above. This dramatic landscape showcases the raw power of the Cascade Range, from ancient forests that have stood for centuries to the living volcano of Mt. Baker, whose glaciated slopes and occasional steam plumes remind visitors of the dynamic forces that continue to shape this rugged terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no specific information provided about accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate up to four people with room on-site for up to four tents and two RVs.
Sites PrivacyThe station is described as being surrounded by old-growth forest and situated on a gently sloping lawn, offering moderate privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe cabin accommodates up to four people and has space for four tents and two RVs. Prioritize clear weather for better accessibility and recreation.
Best CampsitesThis is a single cabin facility.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in instructions must be confirmed with the Ranger District.
Check-out
Guests must vacate the site by check-out time.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to four people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with adjacent space for tents and RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information provided for walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made in advance. $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations for cabins within 14 days before check-in will 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
Showers
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Suiattle Guard Station offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Suiattle River, which is protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, also provides opportunities for whitewater rafting during peak months.
Hiking
"Several hiking and equestrian trails crisscross the area, which are accessible from Suiattle River Road (Forest Service Road 26)."Fishing
Anglers can find fishing spots in the vicinity of the guard station, making it a popular activity for visitors.Boating
The Suiattle River is popular among whitewater enthusiasts who enjoy paddling Class 2 and 3 rapids. July and August are noted as the best months for rafting.Wildlife viewing
"Wildlife is abundant, and guests may catch a glimpse of black bears, bobcats, elk, or bald eagles. Wolves are making a comeback to the area, but they are usually heard and not seen."Winter Activities
There is no specific information about winter recreation options at the guard station.Water Sports
In addition to rafting on the Suiattle River, no other water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is provided outside the cabin, and guests are advised to exercise extreme caution when using open flame appliances.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife encounters with bears and wolves, and the unavailability of potable water.
Active alertsNo active alerts are currently noted.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 40%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.4 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
Emergency services are available in Darrington, which is 26 miles away. This includes grocery stores, sporting goods stores, and gas stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly and August are considered ideal for rafting and outdoor activities.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash and food. There are no trash or recycling facilities available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresClose to the Suiattle River, which is federally protected and offers Class 2 and 3 rapids.
Common complaintsGuests must bring their own potable water, propane for lanterns, and other necessities. The road is unpaved, which may be challenging for some vehicles.
HostGuests need to contact the Ranger District for key pickup instructions. A lockbox is available for after-hours access.
Campground Map
1405 EMENS STREET, DARRINGTON, WA 98241, USA
Driving directionsTravel northeast on Highway 530 about 7 miles from Darrington and turn right (east) onto Forest Service Road 26/Suiattle River Road. This is a gravel road. The cabin is located about 19 miles on Forest Road 26.
The access road has been reopened after nearly a decade of closure due to erosion. The relocated gravel road is now higher up from the river to avoid future erosion issues. Travelers should expect unpaved road conditions but no seasonal closures are mentioned.Nearby places
Darrington: 26 miles away, approximately 40 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Darrington provides the nearest supplies such as groceries, sporting goods, and fuel. It is located 26 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Suiattle Guard Station has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the station's historic charm and its unique offerings, though some note that it appears underutilized. The reopened Suiattle River Road has made the station more accessible.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the station's historical significance and the natural beauty surrounding the site.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some reviewers mention that the station appears underutilized, and there is no indication of recent stays.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests are advised to prepare for self-sufficiency by bringing their own drinking water, propane canisters, and other essential items.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is identified as the ideal season for whitewater rafting, while reviews suggest that winter may bring challenges such as inaccessible roads.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Interesting former forest service guard station. Supposedly still available to rent, though it looks like it has not been used in a while." - Scott M.
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
There are no specific reviews about particular campsites or areas within the campground.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews focus on pet policies or pet-related experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025