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Established Camping

Johnson Guard Station

Johnson Guard Station is located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, featuring forested terrain with a mix of trees and open spaces. The area experiences temperature highs around 80°F in summer and lows near 10°F in winter. Nearby attractions include Bear Lake and Minnetonka Cave, offering opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Overview

Johnson Guard Station is located 30 miles east of Soda Springs, Idaho, on a site that was established in 1910. The current building was constructed in 1934, and is named after James J. Johnson, who served as ranger of the Georgetown Ranger District from 1907-1913. It's been used for various purposes over the years, from serving as summer headquarters to housing work crews. The cabin is accessible by car in warmer months and by snowmobile in winter. The cabin provides a few conveniences, so guests should be prepared to bring the supplies and equipment they need to make their stay more comfortable.

Recreation

The Bear Canyon OHV Trail is about 1 mile north of the guard station (Idaho OHV safety message). Hikers and mountain bikers will also find trails nearby. The area surrounding the cabin is a playground for snowmobilers and skiers in the winter months. Anglers can fish in nearby Diamond Creek. The surrounding area also attracts game and game bird hunters.

Natural Features

The cabin sits in a meadow at an elevation of 6,500 feet surrounded by the peaks of Dry Ridge and the Webster subrange in southeastern Idaho. Stands of aspen and lodgepole pine dot the landscape. Wildlife in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest includes black bears, wolves, elk, moose, mule deer, bison, grizzly bears, mountain lions and pronghorn (bear safety tips).

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Location

Johnson Guard Station is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Soda Springs, take Highway 34 north approximately 12 miles to the China Hat turnoff (Blackfoot River Narrows). This road will follow Blackfoot River for another 11 miles to a junction; there is a Forest Service sign at this point. Take the right fork (Caribou National Forest Road 102) southeast for another 10 miles to the guard station. The road will turn into Diamond Creek Road. Maps are available upon request at the district office.

Coordinates

42.7211111 N
111.2072222 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
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  • AT&T
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  • T-Mobile
    Fair

Site Types

  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Toilets

Contact

General Info

Reservations


Reviews

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4.5

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 4, 2024

Very comfortable and clean

We absolutely loved this small cabin. it had a fenced area and plenty of room. bathroom was clean. Must bring your own toilet paper, water and mattresses but it's worth the hassle.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Johnson Guard Station by Elizabeth L., August 4, 2024
  • Review photo of Johnson Guard Station by Elizabeth L., August 4, 2024
  • Review photo of Johnson Guard Station by Elizabeth L., August 4, 2024
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Reviewed Aug. 17, 2021

Decent spot

Spent two nights. Slept one night in the cabin other night outside. It rained both nights. Stayed dry both nights. Bring a nice pad to sleep on for sure. Cows everywhere. Side by sides race up and down the road. Hike around the cow trails. No cell service and no water. Propane stove and electric lights. Not sure about heat, but I think so. I'm definitely going back.

Sitecabin
Month of VisitJuly

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Johnson Guard Station have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Johnson Guard Station does not have wifi.

  • How hard is it to get a campsite at Johnson Guard Station?

    Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Johnson Guard Station. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Johnson Guard Station, try setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts

  • Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Johnson Guard Station?

    There are 1 campsites at Johnson Guard Station and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert atTheDyrt.com/alerts