Cabins near Malheur National Forest offer refuge at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet, with temperature variations exceeding 40°F between day and night even in summer months. This 1.7-million-acre forest spans across the Blue Mountains of eastern Oregon, with most cabin accommodations accessible via gravel forest roads that require high-clearance vehicles during spring thaw when conditions are muddy.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The John Day River runs alongside Union Creek Campground, providing excellent access for anglers. "Access to lake very large boat ramp and docking," reports visitor Andy M., making it convenient for boat-based fishing excursions.
Wildlife viewing: Areas surrounding cabins offer encounters with diverse wildlife. When staying at Murderers Creek Guard Station, visitors can explore nearby terrain. One camper noted, "We ended up hiking to Horse Mountain (about 3.5 miles from the cabin), and saw wild horses early in the morning. We also saw mule deer and turkeys."
Stargazing: Clear mountain nights provide exceptional visibility with minimal light pollution. At Unity Lake State Recreation Site, visitors report unobstructed night sky views. "Sunsets were beautiful," mentions a reviewer, though they caution that "the lack of shade made it very difficult to stay cool" during summer days.
What campers like
Spacious accommodations: Many cabins offer enough room for small groups. At Unity Lake State Recreation Site, one visitor noted, "We camped right next to lake. We didn't have any neighbors which was amazing, many spots available. Enjoyed a beautiful sunset while sitting around campfires."
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, many cabin areas maintain good standards. Fish House Inn and RV Campground earns praise for its upkeep: "The bathrooms and showers are exceptionally clean and nice...they even include cloth hand and bath towels for you to use!"
Privacy between sites: Many forest cabins offer separation from other campers. At Union Creek Campground, one visitor appreciated the "tons of undergrowth which makes for very private spots" and noted that "spots along Union Creek are great, spots on the river are great."
What you should know
Temperature management: Cabins experience extreme temperature fluctuations. While staying at Murderers Creek Guard Station, campers noted, "The building is quaint with gaslights, and gas fireplace" that helps with cool nights, but summer days can be hot without air conditioning.
Water access varies: Not all cabins provide running water. At Murderers Creek Guard Station, visitors must "bring plenty of water" as there's "NO running water for drinking or cooking" despite the cabin having kitchen facilities.
Sleeping surfaces: Forest service cabin beds may require supplemental padding. One camper at Murderers Creek Guard Station advised: "The fold out bed is old and worn out. I recommend putting an air mattress or at least sleeping pads on it."
Tips for camping with families
Nearby activities: Some cabin locations offer kid-friendly exploration. At Clyde Holliday State Recreation Site, families appreciate the "small creek that runs by the camp where you can wade and kids try to catch crayfish," according to a visitor who found it "totally pleasant" despite not having complete privacy between sites.
Bathroom considerations: Cabins with private bathroom facilities work best for families. Fish House Inn and RV Campground provides "lovely hot showers" and clean facilities, with one visitor noting it's "one of the nicest places I've stayed," making it suitable for families needing reliable bathroom access.
Weather preparation: Seasonal conditions affect comfort levels dramatically. At Unity Lake State Recreation Site, "Kids swam and had a good time in the cool water but the water was gross," indicating that while recreation options exist, water quality varies seasonally and parents should prepare accordingly.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Most forest service cabins lack full hookups, but some nearby campgrounds accommodate RVs. Burns RV Park offers more amenities, with one visitor noting, "Super nice park. Showers, fhu, cable, wifi is really slow, tee pee, tent and RV Park."
Site conditions: RV sites near forest cabins may have maintenance issues. At Burns RV Park, one camper warned, "Our back in spot was under trees that drip sap. We have sap on our rig and our tow" and mentioned that despite fresh gravel, sites "were not as level as site managers seemed to think."
Accessibility concerns: Road conditions affect cabin and RV site access. One visitor to Union Creek Campground advised, "Be sure to gas up beforehand, no services on this scenic drive," highlighting the remote nature of many cabin locations near Malheur National Forest.
