Hike-in Required
No
Sleeps
5-8
Potable water
Yes
Heated
No
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Located on the far end of Big Summit Prairie in the heart of the Ochoco Mountains, the Cold Springs Guard Station makes for a perfect rustic getaway for families or small groups.  Constructed in 1934, and used specifically by the Forest Service through the 1990s, the house was the main switchboard station to connect phone calls to and from the numerous fire lookouts and other guard stations in the region, as well as the home for the fire guard and family.  At the time, calls were identified by a series of three long or short rings. The original switchboard desk, with its iconic bells, is still in the house’s main living space.

The house doesn’t have electrical outlets, but there is some lighting from the attached solar panels, as well as a huge propane tank that is used for additional lighting and the kitchen stove.  The kitchen is fully stocked with basic utensils and cleaning supplies.

Logistics + Planning

Parking Pass

Not Required

Open Year-round

No

Open from

March 16 to September 15

Price per night

$71-160/night

Pros

Secluded location. Big kitchen and dining area. Outdoor fire pit.

Cons

Few directly accessible activities from property.

Pets allowed

Not Allowed

Managed by

Ochoco National Forest

Features

Kitchen
Outdoor fire pit/BBQ
Potable water
Showers

Location

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