Bear Basin Lookout And Cabin
4.867 reviewsSmith River National Recreation Area US Forest Service P.O. Box 228, GASQUET, CA 95543, USA
Bear Basin Lookout And Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / 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
The rental rate is $75 per night for one to eight people. An additional fee of $5 per night per person applies for groups ranging from 9 to 12 people.
About this campground
Perched atop a narrow mountain ridge at 5,280 feet, Bear Basin Lookout and Pierson Cabin invite adventurous souls to experience the untamed beauty of Six Rivers National Forest. This remarkable dual facility pairs a historic fire lookout tower with a thoughtfully designed modern cabin, both commanding spectacular vistas that stretch from the rugged Siskiyou Wilderness to the distant shimmer of the Pacific Ocean. The journey to reach this mountain sanctuary requires determination—winding forest roads lead you far from civilization's reach, rewarding those who venture here with profound solitude and an intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness.
Bear Basin Lookout and Cabin offer rental accommodations primarily focused on cabin lodging, with a lookout tower included during summer and early fall.
Historical SignificanceBear Basin Lookout carries the legacy of generations of fire watchers who stood sentinel over these forests. Originally constructed at Camp Six as part of the region's early fire detection network, this weathered guardian was carefully relocated to its current commanding position in 1996, preserving both its practical purpose and historical character. The accompanying Pierson Cabin pays homage to the architectural traditions of the 1930s, when the Civilian Conservation Corps left its mark throughout America's forests. Together, these structures create a living museum where visitors can experience the romance of backcountry fire watching while enjoying modern comforts.
Weather and SeasonsThe high country calendar dictates the rhythm of life at Bear Basin. Summer arrives with warm days and cool mountain nights, painting wildflower meadows in vibrant hues while gentle breezes carry the scent of pine and fir. Early autumn brings crisp air and golden light, creating ideal conditions for stargazing from your lofty perch. As the seasons turn, winter storms can sweep across the ridge with little warning, while spring often delivers a temperamental mix of sunshine and sudden squalls. Wise visitors plan their adventures for the reliable weather window between June and October, when the mountain roads are most passable and nature puts on her finest show.
ElevationAt 5,280 feet above sea level, Bear Basin occupies a sweet spot in the sky where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even during summer's peak. This elevation transforms the landscape, creating a high-altitude sanctuary where temperatures drop 15-20 degrees from the valleys below. Morning fog often pools in the canyons beneath you while you bask in early sunlight, and evening alpenglow paints the surrounding peaks in shades of rose and gold. The thin air at this height makes stars appear impossibly bright, turning each clear night into a celestial showcase.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape surrounding Bear Basin reads like a love letter to the Northern California wilderness. Ancient forests of Douglas fir and sugar pine give way to emerald meadows where summer wildflowers create natural gardens of lupine, Indian paintbrush, and mountain asters. The crystalline waters of Buck Lake nestle in a nearby basin, reflecting sky and forest in its mirror-like surface. Bear Basin Meadow spreads below like a vast green carpet, often dotted with grazing deer in the early morning hours. Black bears, the area's namesake residents, occasionally lumber through the forest clearings, while red-tailed hawks ride the thermals rising from sun-warmed ridges. Each vista from the lookout reveals layers of mountains fading into blue distance, a constantly changing canvas of light, shadow, and weather.
Geological RegionBear Basin Lookout crowns a dramatic knife-edge ridge in the heart of Six Rivers National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary contrasts. From this 5,280-foot vantage point, the earth tells two distinct stories: eastward, the raw wilderness of the Siskiyou Mountains unfolds in waves of forested peaks and hidden valleys, while westward views stretch across successive ridges until they meet the Pacific Ocean's endless horizon. This unique position atop the narrow spine offers a 360-degree theater of Northern California's geological diversity, from the region's characteristic serpentine soils and uplifted marine terraces to the volcanic remnants that punctuate the eastern skyline.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features mentioned in the authoritative sources.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to eight guests, with provisions for up to 12 guests at an extra fee.
Sites PrivacyThe remote location on a high mountain ridge provides a secluded and private atmosphere for guests.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring plenty of water and all essential supplies, as no water or electricity is available. High-clearance vehicles recommended.
Best CampsitesCampsite 5116 (user reviews highlight its setup and views).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM for key pickup.
Check-out
2:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Up to 4 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- The cabin can accommodate up to 8 guests
- up to 12 guests are permitted for an extra fee.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutIncludes a cabin, lookout tower, vault toilet, picnic tables, campfire ring, and wood shed. Nearby hiking trails enhance layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen July 1st to September 30th annually. The lookout tower closes October 1st due to wind damage risks; the cabin remains open.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot mentioned; reservations are required at least 3 days in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled any time before the date of arrival for a partial refund. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bear Basin Lookout and Pierson Cabin provide opportunities for bird watching, hiking in the nearby Siskiyou Wilderness, and wildlife viewing with chances to spot deer and bears. Nearby attractions like Buck Lake and Bear Basin Meadow offer additional hiking and sightseeing opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant in the nearby Siskiyou Wilderness. Trailheads like Doe Flat and Island Lake are located within three miles of the cabin. User reviews highlight hikes to Buck Lake and Bear Basin Meadow as worthwhile experiences.Biking
General biking opportunities are mentioned, although specific trails or difficulty levels are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include spotting deer and bears. User reviews also mention yellow jackets and emphasize carrying proper protective measures.Winter Activities
Winter activities are limited due to challenging accessibility during winter months; high-clearance vehicles, chains, and shovels are recommended.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire ring available; follow local firewood regulations.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep gravel roads with washouts, unpredictable weather, wildlife presence (including bears and yellow jackets), and limited cell phone coverage pose hazards.
Active alertsRoad 17N05 is closed due to storm damage; access limited to South Fork Road and 16N02 over Ship Mountain.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
The Smith River National Recreation Area Visitor Center (21 miles away), ranger station in Gasquet, CA (phone: 707-457-3131).
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1st to September 30th.
Trash and recyclingNo trash and recycling facilities are mentioned; guests are responsible for their own waste disposal.
Proximity to water featuresBuck Lake is nearby (1.5-mile hike). The Smith River is accessible via South Fork Road.
Common complaintsYellow jackets, smoky conditions affecting views, and limited cell coverage were noted.
HostRanger station staff are available for key pickup and inquiries during business hours (Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4:30 PM).
Campground Map
Smith River National Recreation Area US Forest Service P.O. Box 228, GASQUET, CA 95543, USA
Driving directionsFrom Crescent City, head north on Highway 101 and turn right (east) on Hwy 199. Go through the town of Hiouchi and turn right on county road 427 (South Fork Road) and continue driving 14 miles. Pavement ends and this road becomes Forest Service Road 16N02. Follow this road for 18 miles. You will see an access road (with a sign) on your left with a gate. Following the access road, it is 0.5 miles from the gate to the cabin. Note: Due to Road 17N05 being closed from damage this winter, all access must be obtained via South Fork Road and 16N02 over Ship Mountain. Approximately 18 miles of this route is not paved and has areas of washout.
Access is challenging and recommended only for high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles due to steep gravel roads and sections with washouts. Guests should carry tire chains and a shovel, especially during low-elevation storms.Nearby places
Crescent City (approximately 1 hour by vehicle)
Gasquet (distance unavailable)
Smith River National Recreation Area Visitor Center (21 miles, ~1 hour by vehicle).
Nearby supplies
Patrick's Creek (approximately 40 minutes away) for water fill-up
other grocery and supply options not specified.
Camper Reviews
4.9
7 reviews
Bear Basin Lookout And Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Bear Basin Lookout and Cabin are overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing its breathtaking views, secluded location, and well-maintained facilities. Several users praised the cleanliness and comfort of the cabin and vault toilet.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
User reviews highlight the exceptional mountain and wilderness views, cleanliness of the cabin and toilet facilities, and the availability of basic supplies like firewood, games, and books. Wildlife...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users noted challenges with accessibility due to road conditions, including washouts and steep gravel roads. Yellow jackets were a minor concern for some campers.
Based on 7 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests are strongly advised to bring plenty of water, high-clearance vehicles, and chains for winter visits. Essential camping gear, including bedding and flashlights, is necessary due to the absence...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is available for rent from July 1 to September 30, and user reviews indicate that these months provide enjoyable camping weather. Reviews outside this timeframe highlight the challenges...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Wonderful trip. Would have been a 5-star review if it weren't for the burn damage. The cabin is beautifully maintained and the view from the bathroom is quite nice." – Robert D.
2. "The most...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 5116 reviews repeatedly praise the scenic views, cleanliness, and overall setup of Bear Basin Lookout and Cabin. Users found the cabin accommodations comfortable and enjoyed the nearby hiking...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific user reviews address accessibility features or experiences for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly mention pets or pet policies.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025