About PODUNK GUARD STATION
Overview Podunk Guard Station is located next to the East Fork Sevier River, in the Dixie National Forest in southern Utah. The cabin was constructed in 1928 and has been used by generations of Forest Service employees. Guests enjoy exploring local trails on foot, horseback, mountain bike and off-road vehicle. The river offers fishing and swimming opportunities.Recreation Recreational opportunities in the area include hiking, mountain biking, off-roading and fishing. The Paunsaugunt, Fremont and Great Western OHV Trail Systems can be accessed easily from the guard station.Facilities The two-room cabin can sleep six people on two, twin-size bunk beds located in the bedroom, and a double-size futon in the living room. No linens or bedding are provided. The kitchen is equipped with a propane cook top range and oven, a table and chairs. No pots, pans, dishes or utensils are available. Guests must bring their own cooking and eating euipment. A wood stove is provided for heat, firewood is not guaranteed. The cabin has seasonal water running water in the kitchen sink only (when temperatures are freezing the water will be turned off).A vault toilet, picnic table and campfire ring are located outside. Natural Features The cabin sits in a narrow mountain valley just above the meandering East Fork Sevier River. The meadow is surrounded by mature spruce trees, and grasses and willow thickets line the riverbanks. Average summer temperatures range from 74 degrees during the day to 42 degrees at night. September temperatures range from 68 to 37 degrees; October temperatures range from 57 to 27 degrees. Nearby Attractions Tropic Reservoir is 8.5 miles north of the cabin. Boating, canoeing and fishing are popular activities. Anglers fish for brook, rainbow, brown and cutthroat trout. A boat ramp is located on the west side of the reservoir.
How to Get There
From Panguitch, turn onto State Highway 89 and travel 7 miles to State Highway 12. Drive 8 miles on Highway 12 to East Fork Road/Forest Road 30087. The sign at this junction will say, "Tropic Reservoir - 8 miles." Travel south on this well-maintained, two-lane dirt road for 16 miles. Podunk Guard Station will be on the east side of the road. From Bryce Canyon National Park, travel on Highway 12 for 5 miles to East Fork Road/Forest Road 30087. The sign at this junction will say, "Tropic Reservoir - 8 miles." Travel along this well-maintained, two-lane dirt road for 16 miles. Podunk Guard Station will be on the east side of the road.
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 PODUNK GUARD STATION
Heading to PODUNK 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 PODUNK GUARD STATION?
No central reservation system listed for PODUNK GUARD STATION. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234531) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to PODUNK GUARD STATION?
From Panguitch, turn onto State Highway 89 and travel 7 miles to State Highway 12. Drive 8 miles on Highway 12 to East Fork Road/Forest Road 30087. The sign at this junction will say, "Tropic Reservoir - 8 miles." Travel south on this well-maintained, two-lane dirt road for 16 miles. Podunk Guard Station will be on the east side of the road. From Bryce Canyon National Park, travel on Highway 12 fo…
References & Official Resources
