Patterson Guard Station

Patterson Guard Station was constructed in the 1921 by the Modoc National Forest and was in use until 1981. The cabin was restored in 2022. Located deep in the Warner Mountains in northeastern California, the cabin makes a quiet retreat close to many natural attractions such as the South Warner Wilderness, pretty little Blue Lake, and many hiking and horseback riding trails.

Patterson Guard Station, courtesy Modoc National Forest, CA

Patterson Guard Station (Modoc National Forest)

Cabin Features

The 1-bedroom Patterson Guard Station has sleeping accommodations for 4, but allows up to 8 occupants. Inside are a bunk bed and two chairs which convert to single beds. A new refrigerator and oven/range are fueled by propane (provided). Pots and pans are provided. The cabin is heated by a wood-burning stove, with firewood provided. There is no electricity or potable water. An outhouse is located about 100 feet from the front door. Visitors will need to bring water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. Also, bring battery powered lanterns and flashlights along with bedding such as sleeping bags or blankets.

Nearby Activities

Hiking and horseback riding trails lead into the South Warner Wilderness. Nearby are the Patterson trailhead and, especially for horses, the East Creek Trailhead. Drive to Blue Lake with boat ramp and good fishing. OHV routes are nearby. Fish in East Creek (check California Fishing Regulations).

Read full details about the cabin and check for updates at Recreation.gov - Patterson Guard Station
and
Modoc NF - Patterson Guard Station.

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Patterson Guard Station Basics
Patterson Guard Station Location:	From the town of Likely on Highway 395 turn east onto County Rd. 64 for 9 miles. At the fork go right toward Blue Lake and continue as it becomes South Warner Road. Watch on left for guard station, near Patterson Campground.
Elevation:	7,077 feet
Miles from Gateway Cities:	Alturas - 42 miles Susanville - 109 miles Reno, NV - 177 miles
Patterson Guard Station Season:	July through October, depending on weather
Max. Occupancy:	8
Maximum Number Vehicles:	4
Pets:	Yes
Operated by	Modoc National Forest
Modoc National Forest	(530) 233-5811

Patterson Guard Station Reservations
Reservation Window	Patterson Guard Station may be reserved up to 6 months in advance of arrival date
Fees:	$75 per night
Reservations:	Patterson Guard Station
Maximum Stay:	14 days
Check-in and Check-out Times	Check-in 2:00 PM Check-out 11:00 AM

Patterson Guard Station Amenities
Cabin Exterior:	Outhouse with vault toilet, fire pit, large parking area suitable for RVs or trailers.
Cabin Interior:	Inside: Bunk bed, 2 chairs that convert to a single bed, wood stove, refrigerator, stove/oven, dining area, fire extinguisher, non-potable water, cooking utensil, pots and pans.
NOT included:	Bedding (sleeping bags or linens and blankets), water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, pillows, towels, food containers, toilet paper, flashlight, battery operated lantern, outdoor chairs, garbage bags.
Showers:	No
Attractions near Patterson Guard Station:	Nearby hiking and horseback riding trails into South Warner Wilderness. Visit Blue Lake. Fish in local streams. Mountain biking on Forest Service roads. Shop Amazon: Trout Fishing Best Sellers
Updates	Last Updated May 2025

Patterson Guard Station, Modoc National Forest, CA

Modoc National Forest
Attractions and Activities

Visitors at the Patterson Guard Station find interesting places nearby to explore.

Hike into the South Warner Wilderness from the Patterson Trailhead. Equestrians should use the East Creek Trailhead.
Visit nearby Blue Lake for boating and fishing. A boat ramp is available and a dock is installed during the summer. Speed limit is 10 MPH.
Visit West Valley Reservoir for boating and fishing, located back toward Likely and Highway 395.
Play golf at 18-hole Likely Place Golf & RV Resort.

Check-In Procedure

As your reservation approaches, you will be instructed on how to obtain codes/keys to the entry gate and guard station doors.