Beaver Creek Cabin

For Idahoans seeking a unique and deeply immersive outdoor experience that combines rustic charm with the beauty of the Boise National Forest, Beaver Creek Cabin near Idaho City is an exceptional choice. This isn't your typical tent or RV campground; instead, it offers the cozy comfort of a historic Forest Service cabin, providing a perfect base for year-round adventures. Nestled amidst a mixed-growth pine forest, this A-frame cabin allows you to truly disconnect and embrace the tranquility of Idaho's wilderness.

Beaver Creek Cabin is designed for those who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency, offering a blend of creature comforts and an authentic off-grid experience. It's a place where the sounds of nature, rather than traffic, fill the air, and the starry nights are truly magnificent. Whether your passion is fishing in nearby ponds and creeks, exploring miles of trails on foot or skis, or simply relaxing by a warm wood stove, this cabin provides a memorable and often repeat, destination for families and friends.

The enthusiastic reviews from past visitors speak volumes about its appeal. "This cabin is so awesome! We really enjoyed our stay here, and will definitely look forward to returning for another visit," one guest raved. Another highlighted a family favorite: "The pond is full of fish, but they were too, so our granddaughter learned to cast and caught a little brook trout." And a devoted visitor added, "Great cabin for weekend get away. We meant it every year for a few days. No running water this, but we were advised they would next year. We love it up there." These testimonials underscore the cabin's charm as a cherished annual tradition and a fantastic spot for creating lasting family memories.

Beaver Creek Cabin is strategically located within the Boise National Forest, at an address of ID-21, Idaho City, ID 83631, USA. This places it along State Highway 21, also known as the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, a picturesque route that winds through the heart of Idaho's mountain landscapes. The cabin is nestled within the Boise Mountain Range at an elevation of approximately 5,100 feet, surrounded by a mixed-growth pine forest that offers both scenic beauty and partial shade.

Accessibility to Beaver Creek Cabin varies by season, making it a unique year-round destination. During the summer months, typically from May to early October, the cabin is accessible by car. This involves a short drive off Highway 21 onto Forest Road 362 (Beaver Creek Road). However, it's crucial to note that "Loading and unloading is no longer allowed at the junction of FR362 and Highway 21 due to safety hazards caused by vehicles parked on the highway; vehicles parking at this location for loading and unloading could be issued a citation." This means driving directly to the cabin is expected when the road is open.

In winter, accessibility transforms into an adventure. From October through May, the cabin is accessible by snowshoes or cross-country skis. Guests arriving in winter should park at the Whoop-Um-Up Park N' Ski Area (a permit is required from November 15 – April 30) and then access the 1.5-mile Pilgrim Trail to reach the cabin. This trail is moderately difficult in normal conditions, and visitors are responsible for their own safety and preparation. While remote, the proximity to Idaho City offers a small town with some basic services, about a 20-25 minute drive away when roads are clear. Cell service is generally not available at the cabin, emphasizing the off-grid nature of the stay.

Beaver Creek Cabin, while offering a rustic experience, provides a range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and self-sufficient. It's important to note that some services are seasonal, so planning according to your visit dates is crucial:

• Accommodations: The cabin is a large A-frame structure with a maximum capacity for 4 people, though it has been previously listed with capacity for up to 6 or even 10. It is furnished with two twin beds with mattresses and a futon in the living room. (Bedding, towels, and pillows are not provided; guests must bring their own).
• Kitchen Facilities: In summer months, the kitchen is equipped with a sink, table, chairs, a propane oven, and a propane refrigerator. Pots, pans, large utensils, salt, pepper, dishes, and silverware are also available, especially during winter months.
• Heating: A wood stove provides heat for the cabin year-round. Firewood is often provided in the woodshed from November to April. During summer, guests may need to collect firewood from the surrounding area and be prepared to split their own wood.
• Water: Water is available from approximately May 20th through early October via a pressurized system. However, the facility has experienced temporary water outages, and "Drinking water is tested monthly for contaminants and will be abruptly shut off if not currently potable. Please plan accordingly with your own water supply in case of a shut off during your stay." From October through May, "No water is available in the cabin," meaning guests must bring all their own water. A nearby stream provides water that may be filtered for drinking.
• Toilets: An indoor bathroom with a sink, flush toilet, and shower is open in the summer. An outhouse with a vault toilet is available for winter use.
• No Electricity: The cabin does not have electricity. Guests must bring their own light sources, along with extra batteries or propane for lighting.
• Outdoor Amenities: A picnic table and a campfire ring are located outside the cabin. Campfires are allowed in fire rings ONLY, unless fire restrictions are in place.
• Trash Services: Bear-proof trash receptacles are located at the back of the cabin during summer months. In winter, "No garbage service," and "trash must be packed out."
• No Camping Allowed: It's important to note that "Camping is not allowed at this site; please do not use tents, motor homes or RVs at the cabin." It is a cabin rental, not a traditional campground with individual sites for tents/RVs.
• Reservations: Beaver Creek Cabin must be reserved in advance through Recreation.gov. The cabin code is sent via email upon reservation.

Beaver Creek Cabin offers a host of unique features and highlights that make it a cherished destination for Idahoans seeking an authentic and memorable mountain getaway:

• Year-Round Accessibility and Adventure: The cabin's unique accessibility by car in summer and by skis/snowshoes in winter allows for diverse recreational opportunities throughout the year, from hiking and fishing in warmer months to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing right out the front door in winter.
• Historic Charm: The current dwelling, built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, adds a layer of historical significance and rustic charm to the stay, offering a glimpse into early Forest Service life.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The "pond is full of fish," and nearby Crooked River, Beaver Creek, and beaver ponds offer "good rainbow, brook and cutthroat trout fishing." This makes it an ideal spot for anglers of all ages, as one review noted a granddaughter learning to cast and catching a brook trout.
• Secluded Natural Setting: Surrounded by a mixed-growth pine forest within the Boise National Forest, the cabin offers "pretty scenery and partial shade." Beavers are a common sight, and several beaver ponds are nearby, enhancing the natural experience.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich in wildlife, including mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk, chukars, wild turkeys, eagles, and the occasional black bear or wolf, providing fantastic opportunities for observation.
• Off-Grid Disconnection: With no electricity and seasonal running water, the cabin encourages a true disconnection from modern distractions, fostering a deeper connection with nature and loved ones.
• Cozy Wood Stove: The presence of a wood stove provides a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially during chilly evenings or winter stays, creating a classic cabin ambiance.
• Proximity to Scenic Byway: Located along State Highway 21, the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, the cabin serves as a convenient stop or base for exploring other points of interest along this beautiful route.
• Trails Right Out the Door: Numerous hiking, biking, horse, off-road vehicle, and motorcycle trails are in the vicinity, with "miles of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails right out the front door" in winter.

Beaver Creek Cabin is a rental facility managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Boise National Forest. For bookings and specific information, there are dedicated channels.

Address: ID-21, Idaho City, ID 83631, USA

Phone: (208) 392-6681 (This is the phone number for the Idaho City Ranger District, which directly manages the cabin and its operations.)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-392-6681 (This number also connects to the Idaho City Ranger District.)

For reservations, Beaver Creek Cabin must be reserved exclusively through Recreation.gov, the official platform for booking federal recreation sites. You can make reservations online or by phone:

• Online Reservations: www.recreation.gov (search for "Beaver Creek Cabin, Boise National Forest")
• Reservations Phone: 1-877-444-6777

It is highly recommended to contact the Idaho City Ranger District at (208) 392-6681 "24-48 hours in advance" of your reservation, particularly if you have not received the cabin code via email. This office is the best resource for:
- Current conditions, including road accessibility and trail status.
- Any temporary water outages or issues (as water availability is seasonal and can be shut off if not potable).
- Fire restrictions.
- Information regarding winter access, including Park N' Ski permit requirements and trail conditions.
- Any other specific questions about the cabin's amenities or what to bring.

Always verify information directly with the Forest Service before your trip, as conditions and regulations can change.

For Idahoans, Beaver Creek Cabin near Idaho City is more than just a cabin rental; it's an accessible portal to the authentic, rugged, and beautiful experiences that define our state's outdoor heritage. Its suitability for locals stems from its unique blend of rustic comfort, year-round adventure, and the profound opportunity to truly disconnect in a cherished natural setting.

Firstly, the cabin's "awesome" nature and its setting within the Boise National Forest offer an immediate sense of escape from the everyday. Whether it's the thrill of catching "a little brook trout" in the nearby pond or the serenity of being surrounded by a mixed-growth pine forest, this cabin provides the kind of hands-on, nature-based experience that many Idahoans seek. The blend of simple living with features like a wood stove and, seasonally, a flush toilet, strikes a perfect balance for those who appreciate a rustic feel without being entirely in the backcountry.

Secondly, its year-round accessibility, transitioning from summer driving to winter skiing or snowshoeing, ensures that this local gem is always available for adventure. This versatility allows Idahoans to adapt their visits to the seasons, whether they're planning a summer fishing trip, a fall hunting base, or a cozy winter retreat after a day on the snow trails right outside the door. The opportunity to spot local wildlife, like beavers, mule deer, or even the occasional black bear, further enhances the authentic wilderness experience that defines our state.

Finally, Beaver Creek Cabin serves as an affordable and memorable gathering spot for families and friends, fostering traditions that can be passed down through generations. Despite its "no running water" in winter or lack of electricity, these aspects contribute to its charm, encouraging campers to embrace self-sufficiency and truly immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of Idaho. It's a place where childhood memories are made, skills are learned, and the enduring bond with Idaho's wild landscapes is strengthened, making it an ideal choice for any local seeking a genuine Idaho adventure.

Beaver Creek Cabin

ID-21, Idaho City, ID 83631, USA