Bunker Hill Lookout
The lookout was anticipated to open as a recreation rental in 2025 following HistoriCorps restoration work completed in 2024. It does not currently appear on Recreation.gov listings. Vault toilet on site; no potable water available.
National Forest System Roads
Follow California Vehicle Code on National Forest System Roads
Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited
Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…
Fire Restrictions are in Effect Forest Wide
Fire Restrictions are in effect forest wide. No campfires except in existing stoves, charcoal grills, or fire rings provided in the Recreation Sites listed in Exhibit A in the Forest Order and actively serviced by a camp host.No charcoal firesCamp stoves, lanterns and propane fire rings are…
About
Bunker Hill Lookout stands as a unique piece of Forest Service architecture in Eldorado National Forest. Constructed between 1942 and 1949, the lookout was built by Joe Bauman, a long-time Forest Service employee, with help from the Civilian Conservation Corps and local fire guards. The design features a 20-foot tall stone live-in tower crowned by a 14' x 14' wooden observation cab, making it one of only three such structures in California's national forests. The lookout underwent extensive preservation work by HistoriCorps in 2024, including roof repair and replacement, chimney deconstruction, water damage remediation, and masonry repointing. Located west of Lake Tahoe at approximately 7,524 feet elevation, the site provides a remote high-country experience. Visitors must bring their own water as none is available on site.
Directions
From Pollock Pines, head east on Highway 50 for 8.2 miles. Turn left (north) onto Ice House Road and continue for 24 miles. Head left onto Forest Road 33 and go for 6 miles. Turn left and head 4 miles to a sharp left up to the lookout.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 622-5061 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
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