Kelley Guard Station
4.5410 reviews308 US HWY 189 N, Kemmerer, WY, 83101, USA
Kelley Guard Station
$60.00 - $60.00 / 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
Nightly fee for cabin use is $60 regardless of season. Additional charges may apply for reservations, modifications, or cancellations.
About this campground
Step back in time at Kelley Guard Station, where the echoes of 1933 still resonate through weathered timber walls. This historic Forest Service cabin seamlessly blends rustic charm with thoughtful modern comforts—imagine warming yourself by a crackling wood stove after a day exploring the wilderness, or preparing a hearty meal on the provided propane stove. Perched at an impressive 8,200 feet elevation, this mountain sanctuary opens doors to endless adventure: traverse scenic hiking trails, pedal through alpine meadows, cast a line in pristine waters, or carve fresh tracks through powder-soft snow come winter.
The Kelley Guard Station primarily caters to campers seeking cabin lodging and rustic experiences. The cabin setup provides an alternative to traditional tent and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThese hand-hewn walls tell stories of resilience and hope. Constructed by the young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the depths of the Great Depression in 1933, Kelley Guard Station stands as a living monument to an era when conservation and community came together. Each carefully placed log and weathered board speaks to the determination of those who built not just a shelter, but a legacy that continues to welcome travelers nearly a century later.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's dramatic seasonal transformation at Kelley Guard Station. Summer arrives with gentle warmth and endless blue skies, creating perfect conditions for trail adventures and lazy afternoons by the creek. As autumn paints the landscape in gold, winter slowly blankets the cabin in deep snow, transforming the surrounding wilderness into a playground for snowmobilers and backcountry skiers seeking untouched powder and crystalline mountain air.
ElevationAt 8,200 feet above sea level, Kelley Guard Station occupies a world above the ordinary. Here, where the air grows thin and crisp, towering conifers stand sentinel around the cabin, their evergreen boughs whispering ancient secrets. The gentle murmur of nearby Kelley Creek provides a constant, soothing companion to your high-altitude retreat, while the elevation gifts visitors with cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that unmistakable sense of being closer to the heavens.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a symphony of wilderness at Kelley Guard Station, where dense conifer forests give way to sun-dappled meadows bursting with summer wildflowers. Kelley Creek winds its way past your doorstep, its crystal-clear waters providing both a peaceful soundtrack and home to native trout. This is prime wildlife territory—don't be surprised to spot majestic moose browsing in the meadows at dawn, elk bugling across the valleys in autumn, or the distinctive silhouette of sandhill cranes against the sky. Golden eagles patrol the thermals above, while the forest floor reveals endless botanical treasures for the observant visitor.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast expanse of Bridger-Teton National Forest, Kelley Guard Station serves as your gateway to the legendary Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem—one of the last remaining large, nearly intact ecosystems in Earth's northern temperate zone. This remarkable landscape unfolds in layers of dense conifer forests, rolling grassy meadows that stretch to the horizon, and pristine river valleys carved by millennia of flowing water. Here, the raw geology of the American West reveals itself in every vista, from ancient volcanic formations to glacially sculpted valleys that tell the story of our planet's dynamic past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited in this cabin setup. The cabin is accessible by snowmobile in winter and high-clearance vehicles during summer. There is no mention of specific features accommodating disabilities.
Sites SizeThe Kelley Guard Station cabin accommodates up to four guests, suited for small groups or families.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers privacy due to its remote location, surrounded by grassy areas and mixed conifers at an elevation of 8,200 feet.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests recommend bringing bedding, dish soap, toilet paper, and extra water.
Best CampsitesSingle cabin available. No specific sites to compare.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Guests receive an entry code via email before arrival.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 7 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin accommodates up to 4 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle historic cabin with surrounding grassy area and vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Available for booking in rolling 6-month windows.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo first-come-first-served availability; cabin must be reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before arrival incur a $10 fee, or forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled within 14 days before arrival. Late cancellations incur additional fees. Reservations cannot be altered at the facility after check-in date.
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.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kelley Guard Station provides access to year-round recreation with a variety of outdoor activities. Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, and off-road vehicle riding. Winter activities include snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, accessible directly from the cabin.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible from the cabin and provide opportunities to explore the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity near Kelley Creek. User reviews do not provide specific information about fish species or conditions.Biking
Mountain biking is available in the summertime, offering scenic rides along the Big Springs Scenic Backway.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as moose, elk, eagles, and sandhill cranes are commonly seen in the area, accompanied by vibrant wildflowers during summer months.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, which can be accessed directly from the cabin. Snowshoeing may also be possible.Water Sports
Kayaking and other water activities are not explicitly mentioned as available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood availability is courtesy and not guaranteed. Collect locally or bring your own.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity. Poisonous chemicals are used for rodent control. Mice are a recurring issue within the cabin.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 50%
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
Kemmerer offers emergency services, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesSeptember 1st - October 31st
Trash and recyclingCampers are expected to 'pack it in, pack it out,' bringing their own garbage bags and removing all waste upon departure.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Kelley Creek; seasonal water faucet available.
Common complaintsMice infestation inside cabin, issues with front door and refrigerator functionality, and deterioration of amenities noted by recent guests.
Campground Map
308 US HWY 189 N, Kemmerer, WY, 83101, USA
Driving directionsFrom Kemmerer, WY, follow U.S. Highway 189 north to the junction of Wyoming Highway 233 and Ham's Fork Road. Turn left on Ham's Fork Road and drive about 38 miles (the first 19 miles of this road is paved) to Ham's Fork Campground. Just past the campground, take the left fork in the road and cross Ham's Fork River. Drive about 2.5 miles to Green Knoll/Forest Road 10198 junction and turn left. Then drive 3.8 miles to Nugent Park/Forest Road 10069 junction and turn right. Drive 0.8 miles to Kelley Guard Station Road and turn right. The guard station is about 1/2-mile from the junction. Winter access is by snowmobile only on a 10-mile trail.
Access is seasonal and varies based on road conditions. Summer access is on gravel and dirt roads requiring high clearance vehicles. Winter access is by snowmobile on a 10-mile trail.Nearby places
Kemmerer (approximately 45 miles, 1-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Kemmerer has grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supply stores.
Camper Reviews
4.5
10 reviews
Kelley Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews showcase a mix of positive experiences and notable concerns. Many guests appreciate the cabin's remote location, peaceful atmosphere, and rustic charm. However, recurring issues include a mouse infestation and the need for repairs, such as door and step maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praise the cabin's serene surrounding, access to outdoor activities, and scenic beauty. Specific highlights include the peaceful environment, working wood stove, and propane stove.
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on maintenance issues such as a malfunctioning refrigerator, broken door latch, clogged toilet, and recurring mouse infestations. Some users expressed disappointment regarding the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers include bringing extra supplies such as cleaning materials, mouse traps, and bedding. Guests recommend boiling water before consumption and packing extra gas for snowmobile trips....
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter stays are popular for snowmobiling and cross-country skiing, with summer visits favored for hiking and wildlife viewing. Fall visits seem to be common among repeat guests.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes include: 'Awesome little heaven on earth! Clean cabin sleeps six.' 'The cabin is in great shape. Running water must boil before consuming... gas lights, refrigerator, and stove.' 'This...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for the cabin indicate mixed experiences. Some reviewers praise its peacefulness and amenities, while others highlight recurring maintenance issues.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility considerations such as snowmobile-only access in winter and high-clearance vehicle needs in summer may pose challenges for guests with mobility concerns. No specific reviews from users...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but guests are expected to clean up after them both inside and outside the cabin. Pets should not harass wildlife, and no specific pet-friendly facilities are mentioned.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025