Harvey West Cabin delivers a rare blend: the atmosphere of a Depression-era retreat with hot showers and flush toilets. This 2,000-square-foot riverside cabin sleeps up to 20 people, making it ideal for family reunions or group getaways where you want the backcountry setting without the camping logistics.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 💵Fee per Night
- Free
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 📍GPS
- 38.75500, -120.27500
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 530-644-2324
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Cabin
The two-story log structure sits directly on the Silver Fork of the American River, surrounded by ponderosa pine and cedar at 4,720 feet. Built in the early 1930s by Sacramento Box and Lumber Company, it served as businessman Harvey West's family retreat until the 1970s — and it still feels like a private escape rather than institutional lodging.
The great room anchors the experience with its stone fireplace and propane heating stove, overlooked by two large lofts. Downstairs you'll find two bedrooms, a full kitchen with propane appliances, and one and a half bathrooms with hot water. Sleeping arrangements include one queen bed, two doubles, four singles, and two cots, with space for eight more on the great room floor or the large deck overlooking the river.
What to Know
No electricity means propane lighting throughout, though you'll want your own flashlights. The kitchen comes with basic cookware and a propane stove and refrigerator, but no open flames are permitted inside. You're responsible for bringing all food (in sealed containers), bedding, towels, toilet paper, and firewood for the fireplace. Limited cleaning supplies are provided, but you pack out all trash.
The cabin's riverside location puts brown and rainbow trout fishing right outside your door. China Flat Day Use Area is within walking distance for additional picnic space and river access. The town of Kyburz, two miles away, offers limited services for last-minute supplies.