Oregon / Grant County / Umatilla National Forest

Caretakers Cabin

Open — Open year-round for reservations. From June through September, the cabin has running water and indoor flush toilet. October through May, visitors must bring all water for drinking, cooking, and washing, and an outhouse is available. Winter access may require skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles.

About

Caretakers Cabin sits on a hillside at the historic Fremont Powerhouse site, constructed in the 1930s to shelter workers who monitored the eight-mile pipeline and powerhouse operations. The two-story cabin features two upstairs bedrooms with dressers, 2 twin beds, and 2 full-over-queen bunkbeds, plus a parlor with 2 futons. The main floor includes a dining room with seating for 10 and a full kitchen equipped with refrigerator, electric stove/oven, microwave, coffee pot, toaster, cookware, and dishes. Electric lights and wall heaters provide comfort year-round. From June through September, the cabin has running water and a flush toilet. October through May, visitors must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, with an outhouse available nearby. Outside amenities include a fire ring and picnic table, plus a grassy lawn suitable for tent camping. The site is one of four rental cabins at the Fremont Powerhouse, making it ideal for large groups, reunions, or weddings. The location offers access to North Fork John Day Wilderness trails, mountain biking on forest roads, and the Blue Mountain Scenic Byway. Olive Lake is 7 miles west with boating, fishing, and swimming. The historic ghost town of Granite, once bustling with gold and silver prospectors, is less than 6 miles away and provides groceries and fuel. The entire Fremont Powerhouse site and pipeline are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Winter access may require skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles, though the Baker City route via Highway 7 is plowed.

Directions

From Baker City: Travel west on Highway 7 for 20 miles to FSR 73. Proceed north through Sumpter and another 17 miles to Granite. From Granite go west on County Road 24 for approximately 6 miles. At the junction where the main road veers left along the creek bed, turn right (uphill) on FSR 10 and follow signs to Fremont Powerhouse. This route is plowed in winter and provides the only winter access. From Pendleton: Travel south on Highway 395 for 50 miles to Ukiah exit. Turn left on Highway 244 to Ukiah, then right (south) on what becomes FSR 52. Travel 50 miles to Granite, then follow directions above. Do not use this route October through June without confirming it is open with the Ranger District.

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