About STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION
Overview Stump Creek Guard Station is located along what was once the Lander Cutoff for the Oregon Trail. Visitors can trace the path that covered wagons traveled on over 150 years ago on their way to the Pacific Northwest. Wagon ruts are still carved into the soil. The guard station is accessible by car during warmer months, but guests should be prepared to ski, snowshoe or snowmobile more than a mile to reach he cabin in winter. Guest will need to bring much of their own supplies and gear to ensure a comfortable stay.Recreation Hikers, horseback riders, cross-country skiers and mountain bikers have access to the Stump Creek/Lander Trail, which is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Off-road vehicle trails are nearby (Idaho OHV safety message). Anglers can fish in Stump Creek. Hunting for game and game birds is also a popular pastime in the area.Facilities The cabin can accommodate a maximum of 15 people. One large sleeping room is available with a total of two bunk beds. Please bring your own sleeping pads. The kitchen has a gas stove for cooking, a few dishes and cups and a table with chairs. A propane heater and propane lanterns are provided, and propane is available. A vault toilet is on-site. Water and electricity are not available at the cabin. Guests must provide their own drinking water, as well as garbage bags for parking out trash. Bedding, towels, dish soap and emergency supplies like flashlights and a first aid kit are not provided. Guests should be prepared to shovel snow in the winter to access the cabin and outhouse.Pets are not allowed inside the guard station. Pets must be on a leash at all times when on the guard station site. Clean up all pet waste before checking out of the facilityNatural Features The guard station is situated at an elevation of 6,500 feet in a scenic mountain valley dotted with mixed-growth pines. The dwelling sits in an open, grassy area surrounded by sagebrush. Thickets of willow line meandering Stump Creek, whi
How to Get There
From Afton, Wyoming, travel 4 miles north on Highway 89 to the town of Grover. At Grover, turn west and travel 3 miles to Auburn. Then go south 1/2 mile to Road 110, then west 4 miles to Road 109 for 2 miles. This will put you at the guard station. Maps are available upon request at the district office.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 12 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
- ☔
Rain jacket / shell
44% chance of precipitation in the forecast.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 6)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
- 🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
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 STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION
Heading to STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION? 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 STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234261) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION?
From Afton, Wyoming, travel 4 miles north on Highway 89 to the town of Grover. At Grover, turn west and travel 3 miles to Auburn. Then go south 1/2 mile to Road 110, then west 4 miles to Road 109 for 2 miles. This will put you at the guard station. Maps are available upon request at the district office.
How do I contact STUMP CREEK GUARD STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-847-0375.
References & Official Resources
