Carnero Guard Station is situated in a high open meadow surrounded by forest at an elevation of 9.8 ft. 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.
Activities & Attractions
Nearby
Hiking
Year-round
Year-round
Hiking
Nearby
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
Current season
Operating hours and availability for the current season.
Upcoming seasons
Planned operating dates for future seasons to help you plan ahead.
Past seasons
Historical operating dates from previous years for reference.
Closed periods
View dates when this campground is temporarily closed during the season.
The Carnero Guard Station cabin has received high praise for its recent remodel, cleanliness, and serene location, making it a perfect retreat. Guests enjoyed amenities like the new vault toilet and the ADA ramp, and appreciated the attentiveness of the Saguache Ranger. While there were minor issues, such as a non-functional heater and missing trash bags, overall experiences have been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing a desire to return.
The cabin was very comfortable. The cabin is situated off the main road, which gives an added privacy. The only caution is the altitude, be familiar with mountain sickness symptoms.
It was a great stay!
The cabin was very comfortable. The cabin is situated off the main road, which gives an added privacy. The only caution is the altitude, be familiar with mountain sickness symptoms.
It was a great stay!
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!
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.
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!
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.
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
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
Carnero Guard Station may be reached by traveling south on Highway 285 approximately 15 mi south of Saguache to the La Garita turnoff (Road G). In La Garita proceed west on County Road 41G for approximately 17 mi. Look for the cabin on the right.
...
Carnero Guard Station may be reached by traveling south on Highway 285 approximately 15 mi south of Saguache to the La Garita turnoff (Road G). In La Garita proceed west on County Road 41G for approximately 17 mi. Look for the cabin on the right.
NOTE: Forest Road 41G leading to the cabin is unimproved but may be traveled by passenger car, weather permitting. The cabin may also be accessed from Highway 114 west of Saguache, also on Forest Road 41G. During winter months, the cabin may be accessible only by snowmobile, skis or snowshoes.