Fall Mountain Lookout Cabin

Closed

Currently closed due to safety concerns with the tower structure. Normal operating season is May 6 through October 31. Reservations typically available via Recreation.gov at $40 per night for up to 2 guests.

From Recreation.gov

Fall Mountain Lookout will be unavailable due to safety concerns with the tower structure.

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.

About

Fall Mountain Lookout Tower offers a unique overnight experience in central Oregon's Malheur National Forest, approximately 20 miles south of John Day. Built in 1933 at an elevation of 5,949 feet, this historic fire lookout once served forest personnel who monitored the surrounding landscape for signs of smoke. Today, guests can experience the life of a lookout while enjoying 360-degree views of the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness and the towns of Seneca and Mt. Vernon. The 14-by-14-foot cabin sits atop an 18-foot tower accessed by stairs. Unlike most lookouts, Fall Mountain is wired for electricity and equipped with electric lights, heating, a cook stove, and refrigerator. A futon bed, table, and chairs are provided, along with basic kitchen equipment including pots, pans, dishes, and tableware. A vault toilet is located near the tower base. Guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, as well as sleeping bags, flashlights, and all food. This is a pack-in-pack-out facility. The access road is exceptionally narrow, rutted, and rough; a high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended. Nearby recreational opportunities include wildlife viewing, huckleberry picking, star gazing, and hiking trails into the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness.

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. High-clearance vehicle recommended due to narrow, rough road conditions. Do not use Luce Creek Road/County Road 76 as it becomes a private road with a locked gate.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
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

Looking up at lookout cabin on tower from ground below.

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