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 29 at 10:53AM MDT by NWS Grand Junction CO
ESFGJT Low pressure begins to dig southward from the PACNW on Friday, tapping into a fetch of Pacific moisture that will evolve into an atmospheric river streaming into the Desert Southwest this weekend. Showers and thunderstorms develop on Friday and Saturday across the region. Lighter rainfall totals Friday and Saturday will reflect, initially lower, moisture. However, a few thunderstorms could produce impactful downpours on saturated soils left over from last weekend's historic rainfall. Deeper moisture develops Saturday night and early Sunday. This is expected to produce heavier and more widespread rainfall across southeast UT and southwest CO Sunday and Monday, mostly below 10000 feet. While rivers are forecast to remain below action stage, a growing concern lies in the potential for runoff around saturated hillsides in the region. This could produce rock, mud, and debris flows onto roadways, as well as flash flood prone burn scars, washes, slot canyons, and arroyos. Early estimates predict an area of 1 to 2 inches of new rainfall for portions of southeast UT and southwest CO. This is a preliminary forecast that hinges on slight shifts in a strong moisture plume impacting the region. It also attempts to capture the most statistically likely outcome, despite stronger and weaker outlier predictions. Outdoor enthusiasts, motorists, and residents of recent flood impacted areas are encouraged to remain abreast of the developing forecast in the coming days.
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
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!