Mission Lookout
The lookout operates seasonally from May 15 through October 15, weather dependent. Currently showing as closed, likely due to weather or road conditions. Reservations are available through Recreation.gov at $45 per night with a maximum seven-night stay.
Winter Weather Advisory issued October 10 at 11:42AM MDT until October 12 at 6:00AM MDT by NWS Missoula MT
* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations between 1 and 3 inches, with higher amounts above valley floors and in Glacier National Park. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph. * WHERE...Essex, Polebridge, Bad Rock Canyon, Glacier National Park, Highway 83 Bigfork to Swan Lake, and Marias Pass. * WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 6 AM MDT Monday. * IMPACTS...Plan on slippery road conditions.
Northern Region Camping & Target Restrictions, Pallet Prohibition
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho
Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Order for the Northern Region
It is illegal to possess, store or transport straw, hay, grain, seed or other forage or mulch products on Forest Service lands without documentation that the product is certified as “weed free” by a state certification process that meets or exceeds the North American Weed Free Forage standards.
About
Mission Lookout towers above the forest canopy at approximately 3,700 feet elevation, providing unrivaled 360-degree views of the Swan Range, Mission Mountains, and Swan Lake. Built in 1959, this fire detection tower served the Forest Service for decades and is now available as a unique overnight rental through Recreation.gov. The 15x15-foot cabin sits atop a 40-foot wooden tower accessible by stairs. Inside, guests will find a built-in double bed, two folding cots, a propane cooking stove, basic utensils, and a table with four chairs. A modern vault toilet, picnic area, and fire ring are located at ground level. No water or electricity is available, so guests must bring their own drinking water, bedding, food, firewood, toiletries, and battery-powered lighting (candles and open flames are prohibited inside). The surrounding area offers fishing and swimming at nearby Swan Lake, wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, and seasonal hunting. The town of Swan Lake, about 15 minutes away, has a general store with limited groceries and a restaurant.
Directions
From Swan Lake, travel south on Highway 83 for 3 miles. Turn west onto Porcupine Creek Road 10229 (mile-marker 68). After passing Forest Road 9714, turn right onto Forest Road 9803 (2.2 miles after leaving the state highway). Continue on Forest Road 9803 for 1.4 miles to a gate. The combination code is provided in your confirmation letter. The tower and parking area are located just beyond the gate.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| 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
| Phone | +1 (406) 837-7500 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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