Pine Mountain Lookout
3.7217 reviews10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485
Pine Mountain Lookout
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates for the cabin during peak season (April 25 to September 27) are $50. Out-of-season dates are not bookable.
About this campground
Perched high above the world at 4,400 feet, Pine Mountain Lookout invites adventurers to step back in time and experience life in a historic fire detection cabin. This rustic retreat in Mendocino National Forest rewards visitors with sweeping 180-degree mountain vistas that stretch to the horizon, while offering an authentic taste of solitude in the wilderness. Though the accommodations are simple—featuring bunk beds and vault toilets—the real luxury lies in the unparalleled views, the chance to spot wandering wildlife, and the opportunity to disconnect from the modern world in this piece of living history.
Pine Mountain Lookout features unique accommodations in a historic fire lookout cabin. It is suited for small groups up to six people and offers a rustic camping experience.
Historical SignificanceBuilt in 1933 when forest fires posed unchecked threats to California's wilderness, Pine Mountain Lookout stands as a testament to the brave souls who kept watch over these forests. During World War II, this mountaintop sentinel served a dual purpose, scanning not just for smoke but for enemy aircraft as part of America's homeland defense network. Unlike its 360-degree cousins scattered throughout the forest service, Pine Mountain's distinctive 180-degree design creates an intimate viewing experience that focuses your attention on the spectacular western horizon.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Pine Mountain into a sun-drenched escape where temperatures frequently soar past 97°F, though welcome mountain breezes sweep across the lookout to offer natural air conditioning. As autumn fades to winter, the mountain reveals a different personality—temperatures plummet, dramatic clouds roll across the peaks, and occasional rain or snow showers create an ever-changing canvas of weather that makes each visit unique.
ElevationAt 4,400 feet above sea level, Pine Mountain Lookout exists in that sweet spot where the air turns crisp and clean, summer heat becomes bearable, and the views transform from merely scenic to absolutely breathtaking. This elevation gifts visitors with natural air conditioning in the form of cooling mountain breezes and perspectives that make everyday worries seem as distant as the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryThe lookout stands sentinel over a tapestry of California's most iconic trees—towering ponderosa pines release their vanilla scent on warm days, while Douglas firs create dark green punctuation marks against the sky. Black oaks and smooth-barked madrones add splashes of color through the seasons, their leaves dancing in the mountain breeze. From your lofty perch, watch as golden sunsets paint endless mountain peaks in shades of amber and rose, creating moments that no photograph can truly capture.
Geological RegionPine Mountain Lookout crowns a 4,400-foot peak in the heart of Mendocino National Forest's diverse ecosystem, where ancient geological forces have created a landscape of rolling mountains and hidden valleys. This mixed forest environment showcases nature's variety—stately ponderosa pines mingle with Douglas firs, while madrones twist their rust-colored trunks toward the sun and black oaks provide seasonal displays of color. The elevation creates distinct microclimates that support this rich botanical diversity, offering visitors a front-row seat to one of Northern California's most pristine forest environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilet is ADA-accessible, and primary access routes are signed at major road junctions. However, the lookout cabin stairs lack a ramp, making interior accessibility limited.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six people, as per official guidelines.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin provides solitude for guests, though proximity to logging operations and other campers has been noted: "The surrounding forest is quite burnt out with very little shade," remarked one visitor.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabin is best suited for small groups of up to six people. Bring all essential supplies, including bedding, flashlights, utensils, and firewood. Cots are basic; consider bringing an air mattress.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 3:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
7consecutive nights maximum during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests allowed.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle rental cabin with outdoor amenities including a picnic table, fire ring, pedestal grill, and outhouse vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May to October.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot applicable; reservations are required for cabin use.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee. Late cancellation penalties include forfeiting the first night's use fee for cabins if canceled within 14 calendar days of arrival.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests at Pine Mountain Lookout can enjoy relaxing in a historic setting and soaking in panoramic views. Activities include hiking, hunting, floating, and fishing in nearby areas. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of bird species such as eagles, owls, hawks, and osprey, as well as mammals including black bears and mountain lions. "Magnificent views and solitude," one user emphasized. However, opportunities for hiking might be limited due to logging operations and burned areas.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, but access may be limited due to logging operations and fire damage. "I hoped to go hiking, but there did not seem to be trails nearby," one reviewer noted.Fishing
Fishing opportunities exist on the nearby Eel River, which offers serene floating experiences. "Bring some floats for the river," suggested one user.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the Eel River near the campsite, but water quality may be affected by algae and drought conditions. "Lake Pillsbury is suffering from algae toxins caused by drought, so no swimming is recommended," shared one review.Wildlife viewing
Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of eagles, owls, hawks, osprey, black bears, mountain lions, and more. "The bats that come out at dusk are wild," described one reviewer.Winter Activities
Limited information is provided about winter activities. The lookout cabin is closed during the off-season, from late September to late April.Water Sports
Floating on the Eel River is popular.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires allowed only in the designated fire ring and pedestal grill. Firewood collection is encouraged for on-site use.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly defined but solitude is emphasized.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife threats include rattlesnakes, black bears, and hazardous trees due to wildfire impact. Noise from logging trucks and high summer temperatures are additional concerns.
Active alertsLogging activity in the surrounding forest can lead to noise and restricted access. Wildfire recovery is ongoing in the area.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency contact is Forest Dispatch at (530) 934-7758. Dial 911 for immediate emergencies. Upper Lake Ranger Station provides additional services.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 25 - September 27.
Trash and recyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided; guests are required to pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresNearby water bodies include Bucknell Creek and Eel River. Eel River offers floating and fishing opportunities and is located at the bottom of the hill.
Common complaintsNoise from logging trucks, problematic driving directions, lack of cabin security, and mouse infestation. Complaints about the pit toilet cleanliness and lack of window screens.
HostNo on-site staff is available. Contact Upper Lake Ranger Station at (707) 275-2361 for questions.
Campground Map
10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485
Driving directionsFrom Potter Valley: Turn right on Eel River Road (North County Road 240B) and drive 4 miles to the Y intersection. Take the right hand fork of the Y, signed as Cutoff Road, and travel down the hill for about a half-mile. At the bottom of the hill proceed north on County Road 240B and cross the bridge to the north side of Eel River. Turn right towards Lake Pillsbury and proceed for 14 miles to the junction with M1 at the Soda Creek Store. Turn right (south) onto M1. At the junction of M1 and M8, proceed to the left (uphill, following the sign for Upper Lake) to stay on M1. After approx 6 miles, as indicated by the sign, turn right onto 18N05. After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along. From Upper Lake: Proceed north on M1/Elk Mountain Road past the Upper Lake Ranger Station. After several miles, as indicated by the sign, turn left onto 18N05. After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along.
Access requires navigating narrow and unmaintained roads, including dirt and gravel paths. Seasonal conditions and hazards, such as logging trucks and closed gates, can make access challenging. PG&E gates may block progress on certain roads.Nearby places
Upper Lake (19 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car), Lake Pillsbury recreation area (7 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Upper Lake, approximately 19 miles away, including groceries, fuel, and other essentials. Lake Pillsbury may serve as a secondary supply location but is less developed.
Camper Reviews
3.7
17 reviews
Pine Mountain Lookout has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning views from Pine Mountain Lookout, including sunsets and wildlife sightings, but also note drawbacks such as noise from logging operations, limited amenities, and poor road directions. "Beautiful views and unique historic cabin," said one reviewer, while another remarked, "The surrounding forest is quite burnt out with very little shade." Overall sentiment averages at 3.647 out of 5.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Magnificent views, solitude, clean vault toilet (in some cases), accessibility by car, wildlife viewing, and ample firewood supply.
Based on 17 reviewsCommon Concerns
Noise from logging operations, poor road directions in official emails, lack of amenities (including no mattresses and bedding), unclean vault toilets, and potential safety concerns for solo...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring an air mattress and all necessary supplies, follow Google Maps directions instead of official emails, be cautious of rattlesnakes and logging trucks, plan activities beforehand due to limited...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During summer, visitors reported high temperatures and limited shade, making daytime visits uncomfortable. Spring and early fall might offer better weather conditions and fewer logging operations.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Magnificent views and solitude." - Duane B. "Bring an air mattress. The cots aren’t what I’d imagined." - Bonnie T. "Beautiful sunsets. Would definitely stay here again." - Jon W.
Based on 17 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to campsite 01 highlight varied experiences, such as rattlesnake sightings, noisy logging trucks, and wildlife encounters.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
Users appreciated the ADA-accessible vault toilet but noted that the lookout cabin itself is not wheelchair-friendly due to stairs.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed; no specific reviews discuss pet-related experiences.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025