Diamond Butte Lookout
Currently closed. The lookout operates from October through May and closes June through September when it returns to active fire lookout duty for the Ashland Ranger District. Maximum stay is 4 nights per reservation.
Flood Watch issued September 19 at 10:40PM MDT until September 20 at 6:00PM MDT by NWS Billings MT
A slow moving weather system will continue to impact the region through Sunday. The risk of flooding continues, especially over Southeast Montana and Northeast Wyoming. * WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible, along with flash flooding over recent burn scars. * WHERE...All of South Central and Southeast Montana, and Sheridan County Wyoming. * WHEN...Through Sunday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of creeks and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - The heaviest rainfall is slowly shifting over Southeastern Montana and Northeast Wyoming. The risk of flooding over south-centeral Montana is decreasing. - The Robertson Draw, East Side, Elk, and McGhee-Remington burn scars are particularly vulnerable to Flash Flooding and debris flows. Any other burn scars from this summer will have elevated Flash Flood potential as well. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
About
Diamond Butte Lookout is a historic fire lookout tower perched atop a 30-foot masonry structure on Diamond Butte in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Originally located at Yeager Butte, the lookout was moved to its current location in 1958 and served as an active fire lookout until 2001. At 4,245 feet elevation, guests enjoy expansive views of the surrounding hills and the distant Bighorn Mountains, approximately 100 miles away. The lookout is furnished with a twin bed, double futon, and cot with mattresses, accommodating up to 4 people. Propane heat, lights, and a cook stove with oven are provided, along with basic cooking and eating utensils. There is no electricity, running water, or garbage service. A pit toilet outhouse is located 200 feet below the lookout. Guests must bring their own bedding, water, flashlights, toilet paper, and trash bags. A wagon in the basement helps haul gear up the steep hill. The surrounding landscape features sparse vegetation with sagebrush and lupin. Wildlife in the area includes fox, black bear, antelope, and various bird species. Recreation opportunities include hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, off-road vehicle riding, and hunting.
Directions
From Ashland, Montana, travel east on Highway 212 for approximately 3 miles. Turn right (south) onto Otter Creek Road (Highway 484) and travel 20 miles. Just past the Fort Howes Work Center, turn left onto Taylor Creek Road and travel east 12 miles to Sonnette Divide Road. Turn left (north) on Sonnette Divide Road, travel 2 miles, then turn right on Diamond Butte Lookout Road (Forest Trail 4001). Travel 1 mile to the gate. Hike 200 feet up a steep hill 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 | $45 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| gccampgrounds13@gmail.com | |
| Phone | +1 (406) 784-2344 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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