Mission Lookout
The lookout operates seasonally from May 15 through October 15, weather dependent. Currently showing as closed, likely due to weather or road conditions. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov at $45 per night with a maximum seven-night stay.
Air Quality Alert issued August 3 at 8:26AM MDT by NWS Great Falls MT
AQAMT The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality alert for Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Beaverhead, Sanders, Deer Lodge, Silver Bow, Granite, Mineral, Sanders, and Missoula counties in effect until 9AM on 08/04/2026 An Air Quality Alert means that particulates have been trending upwards and that an exceedance of the 24 hour National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) has occurred or may occur in the near future. Elevated particulate levels from wildfire smoke As of 6AM on 08/03/2026, particulate levels in Billings, Columbia Falls, Frenchtown, Lewistown, Libby, Missoula and Thompson Falls are Unhealthy. As of 6AM on 08/03/2026, particulate levels in Butte are Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. As of 6AM on 08/03/2026, particulate levels in Dillon, Great Falls, Hamilton, Helena, Malta and Sleeping Giant are Moderate. When air quality is Unhealthy... State and local health officials recommend that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should avoid prolonged exertion; everyone else should limit prolonged exertion. When air quality is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups... State and local health officials recommend that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children should limit prolonged exertion. When air quality is Moderate... State and local health officials recommend that unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. For more information visit the Montana Department of Environmental Quality at http://todaysair.mtdeq.us
Northern Region Camping & Target Restrictions, Pallet Prohibition
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho
Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Order for the Northern Region
It is illegal to possess, store or transport straw, hay, grain, seed or other forage or mulch products on Forest Service lands without documentation that the product is certified as “weed free” by a state certification process that meets or exceeds the North American Weed Free Forage standards.
About
Mission Lookout towers above the forest canopy at approximately 3,700 feet elevation, providing unrivaled 360-degree views of the Swan Range, Mission Mountains, and Swan Lake. Built in 1959, this fire detection tower served the Forest Service for decades and is now available as a unique overnight rental through Recreation.gov. The 15x15-foot cabin sits atop a 40-foot wooden tower accessible by stairs. Inside, guests will find a built-in double bed, two folding cots, a propane cooking stove, basic utensils, and a table with four chairs. A modern vault toilet, picnic area, and fire ring are located at ground level. No water or electricity is available, so guests must bring their own drinking water, bedding, food, firewood, toiletries, and battery-powered lighting (candles and open flames are prohibited inside). The surrounding area offers fishing and swimming at nearby Swan Lake, wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, and seasonal hunting. The town of Swan Lake, about 15 minutes away, has a general store with limited groceries and a restaurant.
Directions
From Swan Lake, travel south on Highway 83 for 3 miles. Turn west onto Porcupine Creek Road 10229 (mile-marker 68). After passing Forest Road 9714, turn right onto Forest Road 9803 (2.2 miles after leaving the state highway). Continue on Forest Road 9803 for 1.4 miles to a gate. The combination code is provided in your confirmation letter. The tower and parking area are located just beyond the gate.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $45 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 837-7500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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