OutReserve

Carnero Guard Station

Front side of guard station, with fenced yard, outhouse, picnic table and fire ring.
Driveway going into the guard station grounds
large bedroom with 4 bunk beds and a dresser
Carnero Guard Station has a functioning kitchen with propane powered stove and refrigerator

About Carnero Guard Station

Carnero Guard Station is situated in a high open meadow surrounded by forest at an elevation of 9,840 feet. The high-elevation cabin is located in the north-central area of the San Luis Valley in the Rio Grande National Forest. The guard station was first proposed in 1907 by the Cochetopa National Forest, and was originally named the John Smith Ranger Station after a homesteader who built a cabin near the site, but never filed on the land. Construction on the cabin began in 1908 and the name was changed to the Carnero Guard Station in 1916.

Number of accommodations: 1

Nearby Activities & Attractions

Hiking

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Currently open - May 21 to Nov 16

001, Loop: CARNERO

Price not available
🏠 Cabin Unavailable

Site Details

Up to 12 guests
Surface: Gravel
Campfire
Pet Friendly
View Site Details

Reviews (39)

What Guests Are Saying

Carnero Guard Station is praised for its stunning natural beauty, privacy, and peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite retreat for many visitors. Guests appreciate the cleanliness and overall condition of the cabin, with positive feedback on recent improvements like the new porch roof and ADA ramp. While some minor issues were noted, such as missing trash bags and non-functional appliances, the overall experience is described as relaxing and enjoyable, with commendations for the attentive service from the ranger.

Review Summary

4.7
39 reviews
5
84.6%
33
4
5.1%
2
3
10.3%
4
2
0.0%
0
1
0.0%
0

Kathryn G

Verified

January 17, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

5

Very remote, which was just what we were looking for. The clunky heater and coyote howls all night made for a bit of a creepy stay but that’s the trade off you get for such an amazing location. beautiful!

Thomas S

Verified

January 17, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

5

Nicely equipped, propane heat and lights worked well (it was about 15 degrees outside but was fine in the cabin.) Had pots, pans, utensils, etc. needed for cooking. Bathroom was clean and well equipped. Comfortable bed as well. Good stay and will do again.

Kathryn G

Verified

January 17, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

5

Very remote, which was just what we were looking for. The clunky heater and coyote howls all night made for a bit of a creepy stay but that’s the trade off you get for such an amazing location. beautiful!

Thomas S

Verified

January 17, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

5

Nicely equipped, propane heat and lights worked well (it was about 15 degrees outside but was fine in the cabin.) Had pots, pans, utensils, etc. needed for cooking. Bathroom was clean and well equipped. Comfortable bed as well. Good stay and will do again.

Lane B

Verified

January 16, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

3

I’ve stayed here many times usually in fall have always enjoyed our stay. Wish they would put a rain gutter over the front door and a screen door. Otherwise we have a wonderful time . You have everything but electricity but it’s all propane and a hand well pump what else do you need

Lane B

Verified

January 16, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

3

I’ve stayed here many times usually in fall have always enjoyed our stay. Wish they would put a rain gutter over the front door and a screen door. Otherwise we have a wonderful time . You have everything but electricity but it’s all propane and a hand well pump what else do you need

Pamela N

Verified

January 15, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

5

We always enjoy staying here, it feels very private plus you have few conveniences that make your stay a much better experience.

Pamela N

Verified

January 15, 2020 Stayed at: 001, Loop: CARNERO

5

We always enjoy staying here, it feels very private plus you have few conveniences that make your stay a much better experience.

Anonymous

5
Google Maps

Location Carnero Guard Station

Address:
46525 St Hwy 114
Saguache, CO, 81149
United States

Highway access

Carnero Guard Station is accessed via Highway 285, approximately 15 miles north of La Garita, and is also reachable from Highway 114 west of Saguache.

Latitude & Longitude: 37.9883 / -106.424

Elevation: 2996 feet

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: June 4, 2026

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Managed by USDA Forest Service