Deer Park Cabin

This site was originally established as Deer Park Ranger Guard Station in 1913, and a cabin was built here in 1917. That cabin, along with many others in Boise National Forest, was replaced in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, and Deer Park Cabin looks much the same today as it did then. Guests can drive here 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 for a comfortable stay. The North Fork Boise River Trail begins directly behind the cabin and 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 a few miles from the cabin and connects with the Swanholm and Warrior Trails. All these trails are open to hikers, horseback riders, mountain bikers, dirt bikers and motorcyclists, although some sections may be particularly difficult for motorcycles. The river flows across the road from the cabin, offering good rainbow trout fishing after about July 1st, and big game hunting is a popular pastime in the area. This is a dry cabin. It sleeps six on one futon and two sets of bunkbeds; bedding is not provided. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, cookware, dishes, utensils, a propane oven, refrigerator and dry sink, and a propane stove is provided for heat. A vault toilet outhouse is just outside, and 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. Limited bear-proof trash receptacles are at the back of the cabin, so please be mindful and try to pack out as much as you are able. The cabin has no electricity, so plan accordingly and bring your own light sources. Guests are asked to use the provided cleaning supplies to clean the cabin upon checkout. The location is unstaffed. Deer Park Cabin sits 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 look for deer, elk and even moose, and bears are occasional visitors. A variety of waterfowl are attracted to the river, as well as bald eagles and osprey.