About FOREST GLEN GUARD STATION
Overview This historic guard station offers a unique stay in the oldest Forest Service building on the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This charming two-story structure was built in 1916 under the direction of John T. Grey, District Ranger of the Mad River Ranger District on the old Trinity National Forest. Visitors can relax on the front porch and enjoy the tranquil surroundings from mid-April to the beginning of December. Recreation The South Fork National Recreational Trail can be accessed one and a half miles up the road from the cabin, or from the Scott Flat Campground when conditions permit crossing the swinging footbridge. The trail is 21 miles long, but the first 7.2-miles that parallel the South Fork Trinity River are the most traversed. The trail offers numerous scenic views. Visitors may also want to drive to Ruth Lake for a picnic and additional hiking, which is about a 45 minute drive west of the cabin. Visitors can find a few excellent swimming holes on the South Fork Trinity River.Facilities The cabin has electricity. The lower level has a living area with two barrel chairs and a double futon, along with a large kitchen area equipped with a cook stove and refrigerator, dining table, and chairs. The kitchen is fully stocked with dishes, pots, pans, and utensils. There is an indoor bathroom with flush toilet. There are 4 twin beds, and a double futon, and sleeping bags can be placed on the floor to accommodate a total of eight people in the cabin. Visitors should bring all bed linens (e.g., sheets, blankets, sleeping bags and/or blankets, pillows), kitchen linens, and bath towels. A fire pit, Adirondak chairs, and picnic table are provided outside. Space heaters are in the cabin. Natural Features Forest Glen Guard Station is located in the Hayfork Area, an area rich in natural beauty. One of its three major watersheds is the South Fork Trinity River, which is adjacent to the guard station and considered to be one of wildest and most scenic waterways in
How to Get There
Please note: Do NOT rely on GPS systems, particularly those on phones, as this can result in you being led off track onto Forest roads that cannot be traversed with all vehicle types. The cabin is off of a major Northern California Highway; there is no appropriate or direct route via gravel or dirt forest roads, except for the very short traverse to the cabin on the 1S26 Road directly off of CA-36. Coming from the south on I-5, take California State Highway 36 West at Red Bluff. Continue on CA-36 West for approximately 75 miles to Forest Glen. Pass Forest Glen Campground on the north (right), cross the South Fork Trinity River Bridge and turn south (left) directly after crossing the bridge onto Forest Road 1S26. Coming from the north on I-5, take either California State Highway 36 West (directions above) or California State Highway 299 West (follow signs from I-5). Once on CA-299, go west for approximately 37 miles. Turn south (left) on CA-3 directly before Douglas City. Follow CA-3 South for approximately 35 miles (passing through Hayfork) to the junction of CA-3 and CA-36. Turn west (right) on CA-36 and continue to Forest Glen. Pass Forest Glen Campground on the north (right), cross the South Fork Trinity River Bridge and turn south (left) directly after crossing the bridge onto Forest Road 1S26. Coming from the west on US-101, take California State Highway 36 East. Continue on CA-36 East for approximately 60 miles toward Forest Glen. Turn south (right) on Forest Road 1S26
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 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
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 FOREST GLEN GUARD STATION
Heading to FOREST GLEN 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 FOREST GLEN GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for FOREST GLEN GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234405) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to FOREST GLEN GUARD STATION?
Please note: Do NOT rely on GPS systems, particularly those on phones, as this can result in you being led off track onto Forest roads that cannot be traversed with all vehicle types. The cabin is off of a major Northern California Highway; there is no appropriate or direct route via gravel or dirt forest roads, except for the very short traverse to the cabin on the 1S26 Road directly off of CA-36…
How do I contact FOREST GLEN GUARD STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: (530) 623-2121.
References & Official Resources