Located 35 minutes of northwest of Klamath Falls, Oregon, Pelican Guard Station is a worthwhile stop along the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. Constructed in 1933 by a Civilian Conservation Corps Crew, it served as a residence and base-of-operations for the Forest Service seasonal fire guard and fire crews. It exhibits a simple, utilitarian design referred to as “stripped rustic,” which was lower in cost and faster to build than modern guard stations.
Today, you can explore the vintage guard station and garage from the outside and learn more about its history on the information kiosk. There are two picnic tables, two charcoal barbecues, and one vault toilet, making Pelican a good place for a lunch or pit stop.
A mixed conifer forest shades the day use area and it borders the riparian area of Varney Creek. There is a Nature Watch Interpretive Site across the street at the Pelican barn, which was added a couple years after the guard station.
One notable attraction at the Pelican Guard Station is the mortar rock fireplace built with basalt cobbles that are common to the area. A “P” to signify “Pelican” is embedded on the fireplace with red cinder blocks and bottle caps. The “P” is a reminder of past residents of Pelican Guard Station who battled forest fires.
Alert: No potable water is available. Visitors need to bring an adequate supply of water. Please pack it out and practice Leave No Trace principles.
