Deer Park Cabin

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 your own light sources. 

Guests are asked to please use provided cleaning supplies to clean the cabin upon checkout.

Natural Features Deer Park Cabin is located in an open meadow lined with mature Ponderosa pines at an approximate elevation of 4,400 feet. Nearby, the North Fork Boise River rushes over rocks and through jagged granite walls studded with pine trees.

Wildlife watchers may want to look for deer and elk, and even moose. Bears are occasional visitors to the area as well. A variety of waterfowl are attracted to the river, as well as bald eagles and osprey.

Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (208) 392-6681.

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.