Mccain Cabin
4.3515 reviews671 North Washington, Afton, WY 83110, USA
Mccain Cabin
$50.00 - $70.00 / 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 varies by season. Peak season rates (May 1 - September 30) range from $50 to $70 per night depending on the year. Off-peak rates (October 1 - April 30) are $50 per night.
About this campground
Step back in time at McCain Guard Station, a charming 1933 cabin where the craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in every hand-hewn log. Perched at 6,900 feet in the heart of the wilderness, this rustic retreat welcomes up to six adventurers seeking an authentic mountain experience. Whether you arrive on horseback in summer, by snowmobile in winter, or on foot any time of year, you'll find yourself immersed in the solitude of the high country. This is your private mountain sanctuary—no tent camping permitted beyond the cabin's welcoming walls.
McCain Cabin exclusively offers cabin-style accommodations, emphasizing its rustic and secluded charm.
Historical SignificanceIn 1933, young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps arrived in these mountains with little more than determination and hand tools. Working through Depression-era hardships, they crafted McCain Guard Station as a forest sentinel's outpost, each log carefully selected and fitted. Today, their legacy endures in the cabin's solid construction and timeless design—a testament to American craftsmanship and the conservation ethic that helped shape our national forests. When you stay here, you're not just renting a cabin; you're becoming part of a story that stretches back nearly a century.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints McCain Guard Station with its own dramatic brush. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, with temperatures that demand cozy evenings by the fire and snow that muffles every sound but your own thoughts. Spring arrives tentatively, sometimes closing access roads with late storms before revealing tender green shoots. Summer bursts forth in glory—warm days perfect for exploration give way to cool mountain evenings, while wildflower meadows explode in purple, yellow, and white. Fall brings crisp air and golden aspens, though early snows may surprise the unprepared traveler.
ElevationAt 6,900 feet above sea level, McCain Guard Station occupies that magical elevation where the air turns crisp and clear, where your morning coffee tastes better, and where the stars seem close enough to touch. This lofty perch delivers sweeping mountain vistas that change with every passing cloud, while the thin air reminds lowlanders to take it easy on their first day. Here, you're high enough to escape summer's heat but not so high that altitude becomes a concern for most visitors.
Natural Features and SceneryTucked into a pristine mountain valley where clear creeks tumble toward Little Greys River, McCain Guard Station sits at the crossroads of wilderness wonder. Pine-scented hillsides rise on all sides, their slopes dotted with wildflower meadows that bloom in waves throughout summer. This is prime wildlife territory—morning might bring a moose browsing in the willows, while eagles patrol the thermals overhead. Elk bugle in autumn, deer pick their way delicately through your yard, and the prehistoric calls of sandhill cranes echo across the valley. Every window frames a postcard, every trail promises discovery.
Geological RegionMcCain Guard Station rests in the embrace of the Bridger-Teton National Forest, itself a crown jewel within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem—one of the last intact temperate ecosystems on Earth. This mountain valley at 6,900 feet tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where ancient seas gave way to towering peaks, and glaciers carved the dramatic landscapes you see today. Here, in this corner of the Rocky Mountains, you're surrounded by some of the most pristine and biologically diverse wilderness in the lower 48 states.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible by low-speed gravel roads, although winter access requires snowmobiles on a groomed trail. Vault toilets are accessible.
Sites SizeStandard size cabin fitting six overnight guests.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is located in a secluded mountain valley offering privacy and serenity.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Follow the directions thoroughly, you can get the propane heater to light and keep you warm at night."
Best CampsitesSite 001, McCain Cabin is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM.
Check-out
11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Fits six overnight guests. No additional guests may camp outside.
Groups
No group camping facilities are available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with associated amenities such as a vault toilet, picnic table, and fire ring.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to December 31. Winter access limited to snowmobile use.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability for this cabin.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations less than 14 days before arrival forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservation dates completely outside original dates incur a $10 change 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
McCain Cabin offers a variety of year-round outdoor recreational activities. In summer, hikers, bikers, horseback riders, and anglers enjoy the nearby trails and waterways, while winter snowmobile enthusiasts frequent the area. Popular trails include Big Springs Trail and Bailey Creek Trail, offering both scenic views and challenging routes.
Hiking
"Several trails such as Big Springs Trail and Bailey Creek Trail are nearby, including a portion of the Wild and Scenic Snake River Headwaters."Fishing
"Numerous creeks and the Little Greys River offer fishing opportunities."Biking
"Biking trails are available in the vicinity, offering both recreational and scenic options."Wildlife viewing
"Wildlife such as deer, moose, elk, eagles, and sandhill cranes can be observed in the area."Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling on groomed trails and sledding in open meadows.Water Sports
No specific water sports facilities are noted.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is provided and must only be used at this cabin. Campfires are allowed in designated rings.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include rough gravel roads, limited cell phone coverage, potential bear encounters, and hornet infestations around the cabin.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 43%
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
Emergency services are nearest in Alpine, including a grocery store, gas station, and restaurant, approximately 23 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility; no trash or recycling services are provided.
Proximity to water featuresCreeks flow near the cabin and into Little Greys River. Guests commented on spotting nearby springs and meadows.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include hornet infestations, lack of running water, and rough roads. "Beware the hornets that are plentiful around the cabin."
HostGreys River Ranger District manages the cabin. Contact them for inquiries Monday-Friday, 8 AM to 4:30 PM (excluding weekends and Federal holidays).
Campground Map
671 North Washington, Afton, WY 83110, USA
Driving directionsFrom Afton, Wyoming, take Highway 89 north about 31 miles to Alpine. At Alpine, turn right (south) onto Greys River Road (Forest Road 10138) and travel about 8 miles to the junction with Little Greys River Road (Forest Road 10124). Turn left (northeast) onto Little Greys River Road and drive about 11 miles to Forest Road 10047. Turn left at that junction and continue another 2 miles. At fork, turn left and follow the road to the cabin, which will be in plain view. Access is along low-speed gravel roads.
The roads to the cabin are low-speed gravel roads. Spring and fall access may be affected by weather and road conditions. Winter access is only available via snowmobile on a groomed trail.Nearby places
Alpine is 23 miles away and takes over an hour to reach due to gravel mountain roads.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as groceries, gas, and restaurants are available in Alpine, 23 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.4
15 reviews
Mccain Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for McCain Cabin highlight its remote and scenic location, making it ideal for those seeking a quiet getaway. While amenities like no running water and hornet issues were mentioned, the cabin's rustic charm, starry skies, and efficient woodstove were praised.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the cabin's secluded location, scenic surroundings, efficient heating options like the woodstove, and the peaceful ambiance. Several users also appreciated the opportunity to...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included no running water, hornet issues, rough roads, a hard-to-light woodstove, and missing propane refrigerator.
Based on 15 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include bringing extra drinking water, garbage bags, and coolers for food storage. Ensure you follow instructions for lighting the woodstove and use snowmobiles during winter access.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews often emphasize snowmobile access, warmth provided by the woodstove, and challenges like rough trails for sleds. Summer reviews highlight hiking, wildlife viewing, and the abundance of...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Want a cabin that's away from the 'main' road, yet still very accessible? This is it. Scenic and peaceful." - SCOTT S
2. "If you are looking for remote this is it! AMAZING scenery, a beautiful...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 reviews emphasize the cabin's charm, efficient heating, and scenic location while noting issues like hornet problems and rough roads.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews do not specifically address accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit mentions of pet-friendly features or policies.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025