American River Guard Station

About

The American River Guard Station sits on the banks of the American River in old-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock forest off the scenic Mather Memorial Parkway (Highway 410). Built in 1941 by the 932nd Camp Naches Civilian Conservation Corps crew as a fire patrol and recreation management residence, the cabin was found eligible for the National Register of Historic Places in 1999 and has been carefully restored for public use. The cabin features a small kitchen equipped with an electric range, refrigerator, coffee maker, pots, dishes, and glassware. The living area has a queen sleeper sofa, dining table for 4-8, wood stove, and electric baseboard heater. A full bed occupies the bedroom, while four twin beds with mattresses fill the sleeping loft. Guests must bring their own bedding, food, water, and all supplies. In summer, potable water can be obtained from nearby Cedar Spring Campground. The location provides access to Bumping Lake for boating and fishing, trails into the William O. Douglas and Norse Peak Wilderness areas, and winter activities including snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Chinook Pass and Mount Rainier National Park are 30 minutes away. Wildlife in the area includes deer, porcupine, native fish, and migratory birds, with Northern Spotted Owl, gray wolves, and grizzly bears in nearby wilderness areas.

Directions

From Naches, WA: Travel west on US Highway 12 for 4.4 miles, then continue straight onto Highway 410 W for 27.5 miles. Turn left onto Bumping River Road / Forest Road 1800. Cross the bridge over American River, then turn left onto American Forks Campground Road. The cabin and access road will be on the left shortly after turning. Up to 4 passenger vehicles may park at the guard station; additional vehicles can use overflow parking off Bumping Road 1800. Major roads from Naches are plowed in winter.