Fall Mountain Lookout Cabin
Closed — Closed for the season. Typically operates from May through October. Weather conditions and snow may delay spring opening or force early closures. Reservations available up to six months in advance through Recreation.gov.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order.
Malheur Falls Post Fire Hazards Closure
Prohibitions1. Entering into or being upon an area closed for the protection of public health and safety. 36 CFR § 261.53(e).2. Being on a National Forest System Road. 36 CFR § 261.54(c) and (e).
14 Day Stay Limit
Prohibition of Camping on the Umatilla, Wallowa-Whitman, and Malheur National Forests for a period longer than 14 days within any 30-day period. 36 CFR § 261.58(a)
About
Fall Mountain Lookout Tower is a historic fire lookout built in 1933, situated approximately 20 miles from John Day in central Oregon. The 14-by-14-foot cabin sits atop an 18-foot tower at an elevation of 5,949 feet, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness and the distant towns of Seneca and Mt. Vernon. Before satellite surveillance, lookout personnel monitored the forest from this perch for signs of smoke. The one-room cabin accommodates up to two people and is furnished with a futon bed, table, and chairs. Unlike most lookouts, Fall Mountain has electricity with electric lights, heating, an electric stove, and a refrigerator. The kitchen is equipped with pots, pans, dishes, and tableware. A wooden catwalk encircles the structure, providing unobstructed views for wildlife watching, stargazing, and witnessing summer thunderstorms rolling across the landscape. Recreational opportunities include wildlife viewing, huckleberry picking, hiking, and hunting. A multiple-use trailhead is located south of the tower at Starr Springs, with designated trails into the wilderness approximately 30 minutes away by vehicle. The nearby Strawberry Mountain Wilderness encompasses approximately 69,350 acres with mountain peaks, several lakes, and diverse wildlife including elk, mule deer, black bear, cougar, bighorn sheep, and various bird species.
Directions
From John Day, travel approximately 15.5 miles south on Highway 395. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 4920. Follow Forest Service Road 4920 approximately 5 miles. Turn right on Forest Service Road 607 and continue approximately 1 mile to the lookout. CAUTION: Google Maps may incorrectly direct you to Luce Creek Road/County Road 76, which becomes an impassable private road with a locked gate. The last road to the lookout is narrow, rutty, and rough; high-clearance vehicles recommended.
Nearby Campgrounds
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 | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (541) 820-3800 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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