Auburn, Wyoming offers rustic cabin camping options in Bridger-Teton National Forest and surrounding areas. Elevations range from 5,800 to 7,500 feet, creating distinct seasonal conditions with heavy snow in winter and mild summers. Most forest service cabins require advance booking through recreation.gov with limited cell service throughout the region.
What to do
Fishing access opportunities: Indian Creek provides shoreline access to Palisades Reservoir. "Amazing view, and great fishing access. Many places along the reservoir. Close to the road so traffic can be loud. Free to stay on most of the campsites along the reservoir aside from the boat ramp site," notes Chelsie B.
Wildflower viewing: La Barge Guard Station sits near spectacular wildflower meadows during summer months. "I visited in July and the wild flowers were incredible in LaBarge Meadows. This is near the Tri-Basin drainage. The trail head for the Lander Cut-Off Trail is right at the cabin," explains Carrie C.
Winter recreation: Several cabin rentals remain accessible during snow season. "We cheated. It was too cold to sleep outdoors the month we arrived at the Diamond Creek Campground... give us a break, we're from Arizona! The guard station can be rented cheaply through Recreation.gov and it was worth every penny! With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty," shares Lisa C.
What campers like
Affordability of forest service cabins: Most guard stations near Auburn cost $30-40 per night. "This remote cabin can be rented for $30 night if not in use by the forest service staff. This is a popular destination for snowmobiling in the winter month and fly fishing in the summer," reports a visitor about La Barge Guard Station.
Privacy at dispersed sites: Cabins located on forest service land typically offer more seclusion than RV parks. "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," explains Aaron W. about Johnson Guard Station.
Nearby hiking opportunities: Several cabin options provide direct trail access. "We did find great hiking only a few minutes from the campground. We would definitely recommend this place. The owners are constantly out doing improvements, which impressed us a great deal," notes deb K. about Wolf Den RV Park.
What you should know
Bring essential supplies: Most guard station cabins require guests to bring everything needed. "Propane stove and electric lights. Not sure about heat, but I think so. I'm definitely going back," says Aaron W. about Johnson Guard Station.
Seasonal road conditions: Access to backcountry cabins varies significantly by season. "Some shallow snow on the track but firm beneath. Muddy if offtrack and saw some big ruts perhaps of people that struggled to get out. But stay on track and would be fine," advises Gabrielle H. about Indian Creek.
Reservation requirements: Most forest service cabins must be booked in advance. "There is a doorknob lock that you enter a code into to access the cabin that is provided upon your reservation. Call 307-877-4415 to make your reservation!" explains Carrie C.
Tips for camping with families
Look for cabins with fenced areas: Some guard stations provide enclosed outdoor spaces. "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," states Elizabeth L.
Consider RV park cabins for more amenities: Wolf Den RV Park offers log cabins with additional facilities. "Has a total of 14 RV sites, all full hook ups with a picnic table, some tent sites and about a dozen cabins. There is a playground and picnic area. There is a shower house and a laundry. The office has ice and some supplies," reports Debra M.
Check for water features: Some camping areas offer beach access for children. "The beach and the sunset views over the water and mountains are amazing. It's smallish but you never feel like it's over crowded," shares Da J. about Indian Creek.
Tips from RVers
Campsite access considerations: Some cabin locations near Auburn have challenging approaches. "The roads in can be a little tricky without a raised truck and 4 wheel drive when towing a large 5th wheel. But once you pick a spot it is so beautiful. Cool evenings and crisp mornings make the hot afternoons worth it," warns Joshua W.
Proximity to supplies: Note locations of nearby services. "Gas and groceries right down the road. And there is a dump station and trash bins at the gas station. Very convenient," adds Joshua W. about camping near Auburn.
