PODUNK GUARD STATION
USFS · Campground · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- Fee charged
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Campground
- Hours
- Check in: 2:00 p.m.; Check-out: 12:00 p.m.
- Reservations
- recreation.gov
- Coordinates
- 37.4875, -112.2981
- Last verified
- September 19, 2026
About this place
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.
From the USFS.Official page
Is PODUNK GUARD STATION free?
No. PODUNK GUARD STATION charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
How do I get to PODUNK GUARD STATION?
From the town of Panguitch: turn onto State Highway 89; travel 7 miles until you arrive at State Highway 12. Drive 8 miles on Highway 12 to East Fork Road or FS 30087. The sign at this junction will say Tropic Reservoir - 8 miles. Travel south on this well maintained paved (5 miles ) two-lane dirt road (11 miles) for a total 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 until you arrive at East Fork Road or FS 30087. The sign at this junction will say Tropic Reservoir- 8 miles. Travel south on this well maintained paved (5 miles) two-lane dirt road (11 miles) for a total 16 miles. Podunk Guard Station will be on the east side of the road.
Nearby
- KINGS CREEK8.8 mi
- King Creek Group Area8.9 mi
- Kings Creek Campground9.1 mi
- Sunset Campground11.5 mi
- Sunset Campground (UT)12.4 mi
- North Campground (UT)12.4 mi
- North Campground12.6 mi
- Coyote Hollow Equestrian Campground15.9 mi
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 19, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
