Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin
4.1013 reviewsEMMETT RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, EMMETT, ID 83617, USA
Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin
$80.00 - $80.00 / 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
Peak season nightly rate is $80. Weekend bookings require an additional $20 fee. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
About this campground
Perched high above the world at 7,482 feet, Deadwood Lookout Recreation Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape. This lovingly preserved fire lookout tower offers a rare opportunity to sleep among the clouds, where panoramic vistas stretch endlessly in every direction and the night sky transforms into a brilliant tapestry of stars. While the cabin embraces its rustic heritage with basic amenities, the experience it provides is anything but ordinary—imagine waking to sunrise painting distant peaks gold while eagles soar at eye level.
The Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin is primarily a rental cabin situated in a remote and rugged location. It provides a unique experience combining rustic accommodation and panoramic mountain views.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to 1934, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps hammered together this mountain sentinel during America's Great Depression. For nearly four decades, brave fire spotters called this tower home each summer, scanning the horizon for telltale wisps of smoke that could spell disaster for the forests below. Though technology retired its firefighting duties in 1972, Deadwood Lookout stands as a treasured monument to Idaho's mountain heritage—a tangible link to the generations who protected these wild lands.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Deadwood into a high-altitude paradise, with comfortable temperatures hovering between 70°F and 82°F under crystalline blue skies. Afternoon thunderstorms occasionally roll through, bringing dramatic cloud formations and the fresh scent of rain-washed pine. Winter wraps the lookout in a pristine blanket of snow, creating a serene wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid visitors willing to navigate the deep powder.
ElevationAt 7,482 feet atop Deadwood Mountain, this sky-high retreat places you literally above the everyday world. The elevation creates a natural viewing platform where the curvature of the Earth becomes apparent, and mountain ranges layer into the distance like waves frozen in stone. Here, you'll find yourself eye-to-eye with passing clouds and soaring raptors, experiencing the thin, crisp air that defines life at altitude.
Natural Features and ScenerySummer carpets the mountainside in a riot of wildflower color—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and mountain asters creating nature's own impressionist masterpiece against the backdrop of towering conifers. Dawn and dusk paint spectacular shows across the sky, while nights reveal a cosmic display unmarred by light pollution. The surrounding wilderness serves as a living theater where elk bugle in autumn meadows, black bears forage for huckleberries, and if you're particularly fortunate, a majestic bull moose might emerge from the forest shadows. Keep watch for nesting birds defending their territory and sun-seeking snakes basking on warm rocks.
Geological RegionDeadwood Mountain rises from an ancient geological tapestry, its slopes cloaked in dense conifer forests that have weathered centuries of seasons. The mountain's prominence creates a natural island ecosystem where subalpine meadows burst with wildflowers each summer, and weathered granite outcroppings tell stories written in stone millions of years ago. From this lofty perch, the surrounding peaks and valleys reveal the powerful forces that sculpted Idaho's dramatic mountain landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCabin can only be accessed via high-clearance vehicles. No specific adaptations for disabilities are mentioned.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 14x14 feet in size and accommodates up to four guests.
Sites PrivacyModerately private, but multiple reviews report occasional intrusions from visitors ignoring privacy signs.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for parties of 3-4. High clearance vehicles required to navigate steep and winding dirt roads.
Best CampsitesDeadwood Lookout Rec Cabin is the sole campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 11:00 am local time.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 12:00 pm local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy recommended is 4.
Groups
No group sites are specified.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is surrounded by an exterior catwalk. Vault toilet, picnic table, and campfire ring are located outside.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late June through late September. Facility is closed for reservations during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not specified; reservations are required through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyYou may cancel the reservation any time before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies along with any reservation fees. Late cancellations incur an additional penalty of forfeiting the first-night’s fee. Cancellations within 14 days of arrival for cabins or lookouts are considered late.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Activities revolve around the natural setting and include hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The cabin's location provides sweeping views and unique recreational opportunities.
Hiking
Nearby trails include Scott Mountain, Julie Creek, Nellie's Basin, and Deadwood Ridge Trail. Suitable for hikers, bikers, equestrians, and off-road enthusiasts.Biking
Mountain biking is popular on trails such as Deadwood Ridge. Terrain varies with some demanding sections due to elevation.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk, deer, bull moose, bears, and various bird species can be observed in the area. Guests should be aware of snakes, including rattlesnakes, during warmer weather.Winter Activities
Winter access may be challenging due to snow. Activities like hiking and wildlife viewing are limited by seasonal conditions.Water Sports
Not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are provided, but guests must adhere to firewood regulations (do not bring outside firewood).
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears and snakes, sun exposure, and biting flies during warmer months.
Active alertsWeather conditions and snow may delay cabin access.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 54%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emmett Ranger District Office is the closest emergency contact at 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, Emmett, ID.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 20 through September 28.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all garbage, as there are no trash or recycling facilities available.
Proximity to water featuresNo water bodies are nearby. Guests must bring their own potable water.
Common complaintsSome reviews highlight issues with biting flies, privacy intrusions by visitors, and incorrect passcodes for the cabin.
HostHosts may contact guests to confirm lock combinations and provide additional information.
Campground Map
EMMETT RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, 1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A, EMMETT, ID 83617, USA
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, take Highway 55 north about 35 miles to Banks, Idaho. Turn right (east) on Banks-Lowman Road and proceed 25 miles to the junction with Forest Road 555. Turn left (north) on Road 555 and proceed 9 miles to the junction of Forest Roads 555 and 555EC. Turn right on 555EC and proceed 3 miles to Deadwood Lookout Recreation Cabin at the end of the road.
The road to the cabin is a dirt access road that is narrow, steep, and winding. High clearance vehicles are recommended.Nearby places
Banks, Idaho (~35 miles)
Nearby supplies
No water or firewood is available on-site. Guests must bring their own supplies such as potable water, trash bags, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.1
13 reviews
Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews highlight the breathtaking views, solitude, and rustic charm of the Deadwood Lookout Recreation Cabin. However, issues such as intrusive visitors and minor maintenance problems are frequently noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Amazing views, peaceful atmosphere, clean vault toilet, and memorable experiences like thunderstorms and sunsets.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Intrusive visitors disregarding privacy signs, flies during warmer months, and occasional issues with gate and door passcodes.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ample water, sunscreen, cooking supplies, bedding, and high-clearance vehicles for access. Verizon service is reliable; T-Mobile is not.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season (June through October) is noted for the best weather and accessibility. Winter months may have snow and challenging access conditions.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Amazing views and weather! I doubt if any two stays are the same." - Greg Stringham
"Bring lots of water and your camera. Oh! And don’t forget to duck when you open the door to the toilet!" -...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 01 stands out for its stunning views, but multiple reports of intrusive visitors and privacy concerns are associated with this location.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific user reviews mention accessibility features.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies are not discussed in reviews.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025