Idaho › Franklin County › Caribou-Targhee National Forest

Cub River Guard Station

Open

Open year-round. Flush toilets and shower available approximately June 1 through September 15 when water is running; vault toilet available year-round. Water is not guaranteed even in summer. Winter access (December 1 through March 31) is snowmobile or ski only; no wheeled vehicles including ATVs. Reservations required via Recreation.gov. Call the district office at (208) 847-0375 four days before arrival to confirm the security combination.

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About

Cub River Guard Station sits near the banks of the Cub River at 6,000 feet elevation in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. The site is partially shaded by mixed hardwood, pine, and cottonwood trees, with wildflowers dotting the landscape in warmer months. Dense willow thickets along the river attract moose, elk, and deer. The cabin sleeps 8 on four bunk beds (no mattresses provided). The kitchen has a four-burner propane range with oven, table, and chairs. The living room has log furniture, a wood-burning stove, and propane space heater. Propane is provided for heating, cooking, and lighting. Flush toilets and a shower are available approximately June through mid-September when water is running; a vault toilet serves visitors the rest of the year. Water is not guaranteed even in summer, so guests should bring their own supply. The grounds can accommodate up to 75 people and 20 vehicles, with tent camping on the grassy area. Outdoor amenities include basketball and volleyball courts, horseshoe pit, tetherball pole, a children's playhouse, fire ring with benches, and a 20x20 covered dining pavilion. Nearby trails offer hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and OHV use. The Cub River provides fly-fishing for cutthroat and rainbow trout. Winter transforms the area into a snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing destination.

Directions

From Preston, Idaho, head approximately 3 miles south on U.S. Highway 91. Turn east on Cub River Road/Forest Road 406. Proceed about 10 miles to the guard station. The road is heavily traveled in summer; drive slowly and use caution.