We are in dire need of your support, every dollar helps
Campflare

Mccarthy Point Lookout

Lassen National Forest

Loading
63%
of Campflare users received a notification for Mccarthy Point Lookout

Campalytics™ Beta

Summary

McCarthy Point Lookout is a two-room cabin built in 1936 that serves as a great base for exploring the recreational opportunities of the Ishi Wilderness. With scenic views and abundant wildlife, guests can come and enjoy the cabin's creature comforts while they take in the remote location. Additionally, this area is a state game refuge, making it a great spot for birdwatching and fishing.

Overview

McCarthy Point Lookout was constructed in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps for use in spotting wildfires. During World War II, the lookout served as part of an aircraft defense monitoring system that extended throughout California. The lookout is accessible by vehicle, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Guests must walk approximately 1,000 feet along a paved trail to reach the lookout from the parking area. This is a high cliff area, so caution is advised. The cabin offers several creature comforts, but guests may need to bring some supplies and gear for their stay. The scenic views and remote location make McCarthy Point Lookout an ideal retreat.

Recreation

The lookout is an excellent base for exploring the recreational opportunities of the Ishi Wilderness. Many hiking and equestrian trails crisscross the Wilderness.

Special fishing regulations are in effect for Mill and Deer Creeks within the Wilderness. Please check the State of California’s Fishing Regulations before fishing. A valid California fishing license is required.

Facilities

McCarthy Point Lookout is a two-room cabin with a kitchen and a bedroom. The bedroom is surrounded on three sides by windows and has overhead propane lights, two single-sized sleeping platforms and six aluminum cots. The kitchen has overhead propane lights, a propane cook stove, wood stove, double sinks with running non-potable water (hot water is not available), a large picnic-style table with benches and a portable gas barbecue. Propane is provided. There is a broom and dust pan for tidying up the cabin. Wheeled carts are provided to transport gear to the lookout. An outhouse with a pit toilet is located at the parking area. The cabin does not have potable water or electricity. Guests need to provide their own drinking water. Garbage bags are needed to pack out trash. Items such as bedding, sleeping pads, cooking pots, utensils, dishes, dish soap, toilet paper, paper towels, matches and flashlights are not provided.

Natural Features

The lookout is perched at an elevation of 3,600 feet on the southern end of Mill Creek rim overlooking scenic Mill Creek Canyon and the Ishi Wilderness. The cabin is tucked into a stand of mixed evergreens. McCarthy Point is located within a state game refuge that protects species like wild hog, mountain lion, black bear, coyote, bobcat, Tehama deer and rabbit. A variety of raptors nest on rock cliffs in the nearby Ishi Wilderness, including hawks, eagles, falcons and owls. Other common bird sightings include wild turkey, quail, canyon wrens, band-tailed pigeons and myriad songbirds.

Nearby Attractions

Ishi Wilderness
Show More ▾

Photos

Campground Matrix

Set alerts at more campgrounds to increase your odds of getting a place to stay! Below is a list of the closest campgrounds supported on Campflare. Or, view all campgrounds in Lassen National Forest.

Nearby Campgrounds Distance Notification Rate
Gurnsey Creek
Lassen National Forest
15.9mi 69%
Warner Valley
Lassen Volcanic National Park
23.2mi 79%
Manzanita Lake Group
Lassen Volcanic National Park
24.4mi 76%
Manzanita Lake
Lassen Volcanic National Park
24.4mi 88%
Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins (Ca)
Lassen Volcanic National Park
24.5mi 81%
Summit Lake South
Lassen Volcanic National Park
25.0mi 84%
Made with ❤️ in Mammoth Lakes
This site is not endorsed by recreation.gov. A Vay project.
App Privacy Terms Support