Overview This site was originally established as Deer Park Ranger Guard Station in 1913, and a cabin was built here in 1917. This cabin, along with many others in Boise National Forest, was replaced in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Deer Park Cabin looks much the same today as it did in the 1930s.Guests …
Overview This site was originally established as Deer Park Ranger Guard Station in 1913, and a cabin was built here in 1917. This cabin, along with many others in Boise National Forest, was replaced in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Deer Park Cabin looks much the same today as it did in the 1930s.Guests can drive to Deer Park Cabin in two-wheel drive passenger cars or trucks, although the roads may occasionally be rough. Many creature comforts are provided, but guests may need to bring additional gear and supplies to have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Recreation The North Fork Boise River Trail, which begins directly behind the cabin, leads hikers upstream. The 5-mile trail passes through some of the roughest, most scenic canyon walls in Idaho before dipping down to the river's edge to pass by a rock bluff.Horse Haven Trail begins about a few miles from the cabin and connects with the Swanholm/Warrior Trails. All these trails are open to hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, dirt bikers and motorcyclists, although some of the sections of the trail may be particularly difficult for motorcycles. Click here for an Idaho OHV Safety Message.The river flows across the road from the cabin, offering good rainbow trout fishing after about July 1st. Big game hunting is also a popular pastime in the area. Facilities This is a DRY CABIN. The cabin can sleep six people on ond futon and two sets of bunkbeds (bedding not provided). The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, cookware, dishes, utensils, a propane oven, refrigerator and dry sink. A propane stove is provided for heat. Limited bear-proof trash recepticles are located at the back of the cabin. Please be mindful and try to pack-out as much as you are able to. A vault toilet outhouse is just outside. A shed to the right of the cabin houses a hand pump for potable water. A picnic table and campfire ring are located out front. The cabin has no electricity, so please plan accordingly and bring y
Photos
A turn-around dirt path driveway. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceA kitchen with a table, stove, sink, and countertops. — USDA Forest ServiceA refrigerator next to a window and dining room table. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceA water pump in a wooden pump house. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceA picnic table, benches, and a fire ring next to a rustic cabin. — USDA Forest ServiceTwo bunk beds. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceA tall cabinet next to a futon bed, with a bunkbed frame in the foreground. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceBunk beds next to a chair and wood stove. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceA stove next to a table with chairs and a door leading into a bedroom. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceA handicap accessible, unisex outhouse. — Peggy Nance / USDA Forest ServiceDeer Park Cabin, with water pump house in background. — USDA Forest ServiceA roiling river bordered by trees, with mountains in the background. — USDA Forest Service
How to Get There
From Idaho City, take State Highway 21 for 18 miles to Crooked River/Edna Creek Road #384. Turn right and stay on Road #384 for 13.5 miles to North Fork Boise River Road #327. Turn left on Road #327 and drive upstream for 5 miles to Hunter Creek Road #348. Go straight ahead on Road #348 for 1/4 mile where you will see a meadow in front of you and a lower standard road turning off to the right. This road will lead you to Deer Park Cabin, about 300 yards in.
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to DEER PARK CABIN
Heading to DEER PARK CABIN? A few things to know before you go:
Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for DEER PARK CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for DEER PARK CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233958) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to DEER PARK CABIN?
From Idaho City, take State Highway 21 for 18 miles to Crooked River/Edna Creek Road #384. Turn right and stay on Road #384 for 13.5 miles to North Fork Boise River Road #327. Turn left on Road #327 and drive upstream for 5 miles to Hunter Creek Road #348. Go straight ahead on Road #348 for 1/4 mile where you will see a meadow in front of you and a lower standard road turning off to the right. Thi…
