About PEBBLE GUARD STATION
Overview Pebble Guard Station is located at the base of Bonneville Peak along beautiful Pebble Creek, a tributary of the Portneuf River. The rustic one-room cabin offers a secluded retreat on four fenced acres, surrounded by high mountain vistas. The original Pebble Guard Station was built in 1908. The current structure stands at a higher altitude and was built in 1933.Guests can drive to Pebble Guard Station during warmer months, but it can only be accessed by snowmobile or other snow means in the winter. Those arriving in winter should expect to haul their gear and supplies for about 6 miles on a groomed trail. The cabin supplies most of the comforts of home, especially during the warmer months, but guests may need to bring some additional items. Recreation Guests at Pebble Guard Station will find opportunities for recreation year-round. Hunting is a popular pastime, and a nearby beaver pond provides good fishing and wading. Trails for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and off-road vehicles are nearby (Idaho OHV safety message). In winter, the area turns into a snowmobiling playground.Facilities Pebble Guard Station can accommodate up to six people on the two bunkbeds and folding cots provided. Cabin amenities include a mudroom with a sink, countertop, and seasonal shower facilities. The main room serves as the kitchen and sleeping room with two bunk beds with mattresses, a wood stove, table with chairs, folding cots, a broom and dustpan, and stove/oven. Propane appliances include lights, stove/oven, and water heater. The propane heater located in the main room is currently not functional. Guests should come prepared with their own firewood to heat the cabin with the wood stove. Water is only availble during the summer season. A single vault toilet, campfire ring, grill, lantern post, and picnic table are located outside. The parking area can accommodate up to 3 RVs. The main access road, Pebble Road, FS #036, is closed after November 15 every year and gue
How to Get There
Pebble Guard Station is located about 16 miles north of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Just east of Lava Hot Springs, look for the "Pebble Area" sign and turn left (north) onto Blaser Highway/Old Highway 30. Go north on the paved highway for 9 miles to Pebble Creek Road (known locally as Mike's Place or Whiskey Mike's). Turn left (west), across railroad tracks on gravel Forest Road 036. Travel 6.5 miles to the guard station. (This road is closed on November 15th of each year.) Big Springs Campground is 1/2-mile beyond the cabin.
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 PEBBLE GUARD STATION
Heading to PEBBLE 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 PEBBLE GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for PEBBLE GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234605) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PEBBLE GUARD STATION?
Pebble Guard Station is located about 16 miles north of Lava Hot Springs, Idaho. Just east of Lava Hot Springs, look for the "Pebble Area" sign and turn left (north) onto Blaser Highway/Old Highway 30. Go north on the paved highway for 9 miles to Pebble Creek Road (known locally as Mike's Place or Whiskey Mike's). Turn left (west), across railroad tracks on gravel Forest Road 036. Travel 6.5 miles…
How do I contact PEBBLE GUARD STATION?
You can reach the park at phone: 208-236-7500.
References & Official Resources