Musick Guard Station

Musick Guard Station sits in the Bohemia Mining District in Oregon at 5,000 feet, affording views between the tall Douglas firs of the nearby hills and forest. The various structures on the property give the place a feeling of a homestead. One might feel a sense of ownership over this charming, rustic dwelling, which offers solitude in a historical location.

The drive involves a good amount of well-developed gravel roads, if you adhere to the directions. There are multiple routes to the station, but only one that's appropriate for low-clearance vehicles. Once you've arrived, you'll be met with only the sound of wind blowing through the trees. You are welcomed with a long, private driveway beyond the gate, a fair-sized parking area and an outdoor space complete with a substantial fire pit and large picnic table. There are a few structures on the property including a stable with hay loft, wood shed, pump house and a private vault toilet. 

The station itself is basic and rustic. There is a wood-fired cooking stove with a log table and chairs in the main living space, along with substantial information about the station and area. The kitchen has a sizeable counter top and sink that's only for draining (there is no potable water source here), and there are a few cupboards and a small table. The main room on the first floor is spacious with a full-sized log bed. Take the narrow, steep stairs to the second floor, which is basically a sleeping porch. There are enough bunks to sleep six plus another full-sized log bed. Ten people can sleep here, so bring your friends!

The guard station, named for the nearby Musick Mine, was built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps to provide fire protection to the nearby Bohemia Mine. The mining community was substantially sized in its heyday of the late 1800s to early 1900s. Later, the guard station became an important base and administrative office to the forest service. Then it served as housing/barracks to trail crews and summer wildfire fighters. There are remnants of the nearby mining community just down the road. 

Also in the area are the Fairview Lookout Tower, which can be seen from the mine, and Bohemia Mountain. Take the short 0.8-mile trail to the top of Bohemia Mountain for views of the distant Cascade volcanoes from Mount Jefferson all the way to Mount McLoughlin.

The outdoor living space is perfect for late night campfire talks and outdoor meals. With the station available to rent through October, it can also serve as a refuge from the rainfall and a perfect home base to fully explore this isolated area. And don't forget to pack out your trash!

Note that there is no potable or running water source. All drinking water must be packed in.