Fishing enthusiasts will find direct access to the Blacksmith Fork River running behind this Forest Service guard station in Cache National Forest. The facility operates as a rental cabin rather than a traditional campground, featuring propane appliances, cooking utensils, and beds while maintaining an outdoor camping feel with no running water or WiFi. RV hookups accommodate rigs up to 30 feet with water connections available.
ATV traffic travels the access road throughout the day, creating consistent noise levels campers should expect. The cabin stays clean and well-maintained according to returning visitors. Nearby hiking and biking trails provide additional recreation options beyond the on-site fishing opportunities. For other overnight options in the area, campers can explore places to camp around Providence or check Friendship Campground located half a mile east.
Description
Overview
Blacksmith Fork Guard Station is located in the Cache National Forest, approximately 11 miles east of Hyrum, in northern Utah. The Guard Station was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934 as part of the New Deal Program. Early Forest Service stations were typically spaced a "days ride by horseback" from each other. The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forests has decided to rent the cabin to the public so visitors can enjoy a rustic experience similar to that of early Forest Rangers and their families.
Recreation
A variety of hiking, biking, horseback riding and off-road vehicle trails crisscross the surrounding area. The cabin is less than one mile from the Richards Hollow Trailhead and Friendship Campground.
Facilities
The Guard Station complex can sleep 5 people inside the cabin and no more than 4 tents outside. There is also room for a small travel trailer in the driveway. No vehicles are permitted on the grass.
Natural Features
The small green and white cabin sits on the bank of the Left Hand Fork of the Blacksmith Fork River at an elevation of 5,400 feet. It is surrounded by box elder and oak trees with the steep canyon wall behind the cabin covered in Douglas fir trees.
Nearby Attractions
Hardware Ranch Wildlife Management Area is approximately 5-miles southeast along the main fork of the Blacksmith Fork River and State Route 101.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBlacksmith Fork Guard Station is located in Utah
Directions
From Logan, Utah, drive south on US 89 for approximately 1 mile then merge left onto State Route 165. Travel south for about 5.8 miles then turn left onto State Route 101 and follow it east up Blacksmith Fork Canyon for approximately 9 miles. Turn left into Left Hand Fork Canyon and travel approximately 3 miles on the improved gravel road to the Guard Station.
Address
1500 E Highway 89
Logan, UT 84321
Coordinates
41.6591667 N
111.6744444 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Water Hookups
Drive Time
- 34 min from Logan, UT
- 1 hr 6 min from Ogden, UT
- 1 hr 33 min from Salt Lake City, UT
- 2 hrs 7 min from Pocatello, ID
