Jersey Jim Lookout Cabin
Open for the 2026 season from mid-May through mid-October. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov. Minimum one night, maximum two nights. Key pickup required at P&D Grocery in Mancos by noon on check-in day.
Hydrologic Outlook issued October 9 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT A strong low pressure system off the Pacific Coast will begin to draw in tropical moisture associated with Topical Storm Rachel this weekend. This strong southerly fetch will draw anomalously high moisture content across the Desert Southwest and into eastern Utah and western Colorado. The chance for widespread precipitation increases Saturday evening into Sunday. Total precipitation forecasts range from 1 to 3 inches across high terrain, with highest amounts favoring the Uintas, Tavaputs and the Southwest San Juan mountains. Embedded thunderstorms are also possible Sunday afternoon, increasing the threat for flash flooding across vulnerable terrain. While confidence in location and rainfall rates remain low at this time, the potential for rapidly rising rivers, streams, normally dry arroyos and slot canyons are possible Sunday through Monday. Please follow the evolving forecast, especially if your plans including recreating or commuting across eastern Utah and western Colorado Sunday onward. Also, keep in mind weather potential above your location and upstream, particularly for those who reside below sensitive terrain like recent burn scars.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
About
Jersey Jim Lookout offers a rare opportunity to stay overnight in a piece of Forest Service history. Named after an early cattleman who ran Jersey cattle in the area, this fire lookout tower was built to detect wildfires across the rugged San Juan Mountains of southwestern Colorado. The Jersey Jim Foundation renovated the tower in 1991 and now operates it as a unique rental experience in partnership with the Forest Service. The tower cab sits 55 feet above the ground, accessed by exterior stairs. Inside, the compact living space contains original furniture: a double bed, dresser, and a dining table that seats four. Propane powers the heating, lighting, refrigerator, and oven/stove. The highlight is the 360-degree view through continuous windows, with the original fire finder still mounted at the center for guests to identify distant peaks and landmarks. There is no electricity, running water, or potable water at the site. A vault toilet is located on the ground. Guests must bring all supplies including drinking water; the nearest water source is a hand pump at Transfer Campground, four miles back down Forest Road 561. Stays are limited to two nights maximum. Pets, children under 8, smoking, alcohol, and open fires within the fenced area are prohibited.
Directions
From Mancos, drive 14 miles north on Forest Road 561, a well-maintained gravel road accessible by two-wheel-drive vehicles. Keep speeds under 30 mph and watch for livestock and wildlife.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $50 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| jerseyjimfoudation@gmail.com | |
| Phone | +1 (970) 882-7296 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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