The modern station has telephones and restrooms and is maintained by city residents and local rail enthusiasts.

The first Dunsmuir stop was simply a boxcar located lower on the line further to the south than the current town.

In January 1887, the Dunsmuir station was moved to the railroad's engine house while retaining the name, whereupon the town also adopted the moniker.

Due to the way schedules are aligned, both the northbound and southbound trains pass through in the middle of the night.

As of 2024[update], construction to modify the platform for accessibility is underway, with completion expected in FY 2025.