Shorty Peak Lookout

Star4.69
30 reviews
6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA
Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazing

Quick Facts

6,401 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open June 21, 2025 -...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Idaho Panhandle National Forests site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

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April 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026
Shorty Peak Lookout
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Flat rate of $45 per night for the cabin (non-electric). Additional reservation fee applies: $8 online, $9 via call center, or $3 in person.
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

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Provider
208-267-5561
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What Campers Say

4.69

Top-Rated

Based on 30 reviews

4 Google reviews

Most mentioned

views

"Shorty Peak Lookout receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. Visitors praise the cleanliness, seclusion, and breathtaking views. The hike to the lookout is described as challenging but rewarding."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA

Shorty Peak Lookout

6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA

Nearby places
Bonners Ferry: 50 miles (~1 hour, 20 minutes driving). Creston, BC (Canada): Visible at night but distance unspecified.
Nearby supplies
Convenience store at Canadian border
full groceries and gear in Bonners Ferry, 50 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Shorty Peak Lookout

Mountain evenings here tell their own story, with summer temperatures dipping into the crisp mid-40s°F as the sun sets behind distant peaks. By late September, autumn's chill transforms the lookout into a true wilderness retreat where warm layers become your best companions. On crystal-clear nights, far from any light pollution, the heavens come alive with countless stars—a celestial show that makes bundling up in warm gear absolutely worthwhile.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Early fall praised for crisp weather and excellent views; late Sept can be chilly but scenic.

Planning Tips

  • Peak Season: June 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open June 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025. Peak season matches these dates.

About Shorty Peak Lookout

Perched atop the dramatic heights of Shorty Peak, this restored fire lookout cabin beckons adventurers seeking an extraordinary escape above the clouds. Your journey begins with an invigorating 2.5-mile trek that climbs 1,300 feet through pristine wilderness, ultimately rewarding you with a cozy 15' x 15' historic cabin that floats like an island in the sky. From this lofty perch, the world unfolds in every direction—a breathtaking 360-degree panorama spanning three regions: Northern Idaho's rugged beauty, Montana's endless horizons, and the distant peaks of British Columbia.
The Shorty Peak Lookout offers only a single cabin accommodation for guests seeking a unique, rustic experience. The site does not feature traditional campgrounds or RV facilities.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
7consecutive nights

Need help booking Shorty Peak Lookout?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.


Amenities available

Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Visitors to Shorty Peak Lookout can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, stargazing, and landscape photography. The cabin’s location and surrounding trails provide opportunities for an immersive nature experience.
Hiking
Wildlife viewing
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear country (grizzly and black). Steep trail sections; high-altitude sun exposure. Pit toilet located ~200 yards from cabin.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Shorty Peak Lookout

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Reviews

From Booking Sources
4.7
30 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Shorty Peak Lookout is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Shorty Peak Lookout receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. Visitors praise the cleanliness, seclusion, and breathtaking views. The hike to the lookout is described as challenging but rewarding.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests frequently mention the pristine condition of the lookout, the stunning 360-degree views, and the memorable stargazing opportunities. Many also appreciate the availability of small amenities...
Show more
Based on 30 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the steep hike, lack of nearby water sources, and the distance to the pit toilet. Mosquitoes are noted as a nuisance during the hike in summer months.
Based on 30 reviews
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Last updated March 8, 2026
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Campgrounds
Idaho Panhandle National Forests
Shorty Peak Lookout