Deer Ridge Lookout
4.6814 reviews6286 MAIN STREET
Deer Ridge Lookout
$45.00 - $45.00 / 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 cabin non-electric fee is $45 per night from May 31st to October 5th. Rates may not include taxes or discounts.
About this campground
Ascend the winding mountain road to discover Deer Ridge Lookout, where adventure begins with a climb up steep wooden stairs to reach your extraordinary accommodation—a historic fire lookout cabin suspended 40 feet above the forest floor. This one-of-a-kind retreat crowns the ridgeline with a wraparound catwalk that serves as your personal observation deck, offering uninterrupted 360-degree vistas of three states and provinces. While you'll need to bring your own water for this backcountry experience, the isolation and panoramic splendor of the Purcell Mountains stretching across Northern Idaho, Canada, and Montana make every preparation worthwhile.
The Deer Ridge Lookout offers a unique lodging experience in a fire tower cabin, emphasizing rustic and remote accommodations.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history as you flip through decades of entries in the lookout's cherished guest books, where previous visitors have recorded their encounters with wildlife, weather phenomena, and personal revelations experienced from this lofty vantage point. These weathered pages chronicle the stories of fire spotters, adventurers, and dreamers who have sought solitude and inspiration in this historic structure, creating a tangible connection between past and present visitors.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring warmth that fills the lookout's glassed interior, creating a natural solarium effect that's perfect for afternoon reading or wildlife watching. As evening approaches, dramatic thunderstorms often roll across the distant peaks, putting on nature's most spectacular light show from the safety of your elevated perch. On clear nights, the absence of light pollution transforms the sky into a glittering tapestry of stars, making this mountaintop refuge an astronomer's dream destination.
ElevationAt 4,755 feet above sea level, Deer Ridge Lookout positions you perfectly between earth and sky, high enough to survey vast mountain kingdoms yet accessible enough for a memorable weekend escape. From this strategic elevation, you'll witness weather patterns developing across distant valleys, watch raptors soaring at eye level, and experience sunrise and sunset painting the surrounding peaks in ever-changing hues of gold, pink, and purple.
Natural Features and SceneryYour elevated sanctuary overlooks a dramatic landscape sculpted by ancient glaciers, where rugged peaks thrust 6,000 to 7,000 feet skyward in every direction. Below, the serpentine Moyie River winds through its verdant valley toward the distant community of Moyie Springs. This pristine wilderness serves as home to majestic elk that bugle during autumn evenings, deer that graze in alpine meadows, and black bears that forage through huckleberry patches. Each season transforms this mountain theater with new colors and wildlife activity, ensuring no two visits are ever the same.
Geological RegionSituated in the heart of the Lower Kootenai River Area within the Bonners Ferry District, Deer Ridge Lookout stands at the crossroads of some of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular mountain systems. To the east, the Purcell and Cabinet Ranges march toward the Montana border, while the jagged peaks of the Selkirk Range dominate the western horizon. This unique position, just south of the Canadian border, places you at the intersection of multiple mountain ecosystems, where moderate elevations of 6,000 to 7,000 feet reveal the powerful sculpting forces of Ice Age glaciers in every ridge, valley, and alpine cirque visible from your lofty perch.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe steep staircase leading to the cabin may pose difficulties for small children and those with mobility challenges. Visitors are advised to exercise caution when climbing the stairs.
Sites SizeThe cabin is 14' x 14', suitable for small groups or pairs.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers solitude and scenic views but is not entirely isolated, as occasional visitors may arrive. 'Had a few visitors and picked lots of huckleberries.'
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests suggest bringing a tarp for rain protection, cooking equipment, and proper bedding.
Best Campsites'Campsite 001' is the sole site available and receives high praise.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is specified by contacting the ranger district 10-14 days prior to arrival for combination lock access.
Check-out
Check-out time is not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The information is not explicitly provided.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe site is a single cabin atop a timber-frame tower with a wraparound catwalk and pit toilet 50 yards away.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 31st to October 5th, with reservable stays starting June 25th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityEntry is by combination lock, and no explicit mention of walk-up availability is given.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and cancellations within 14 calendar days prior to check-in for cabins will also forfeit the first night's fee. Late cancellation penalties apply for changes less than 14 days before 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
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests can enjoy hiking on trails such as Deer Ridge and Ruby Ridge, picking huckleberries in late summer, fly fishing in the nearby Moyie River for rainbow and brook trout, and observing local wildlife including elk, deer, and black bears.
Hiking
Hiking trails originate from the lookout and traverse the Deer Ridge and Ruby Ridge areas. User reviews highlight the trails' accessibility straight from the facility: 'Hiking trails right out the front steps.'Fishing
Fly fishing is available in the Moyie River, where anglers can try for rainbow and brook trout. Regulations and permits must be obtained from local authorities before fishing.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently see elk, deer, and black bears in the area, as highlighted in user reviews: 'I saw 4 bears within 1/2 mile of the tower in 2 days.'Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, but weather data suggests moderate snowfall during some weeks.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Cooking fires are permitted at ground level. Guests are advised to bring firewood near the destination.
- Quiet hours are Null as no noise reduction times are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears in the area. Guests are advised to practice bear safety.
Active alertsNull as no active alerts are mentioned.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Bonners Ferry Emergency Services (24 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 31, 2025 - October 5, 2025.
Trash and recyclingThis is a 'pack it in, pack it out' facility. Visitors must bring garbage bags and manage their own trash: 'Pack it in, pack it out!'
Proximity to water featuresNearby Moyie River offers fly fishing opportunities for rainbow and brook trout.
Common complaintsGuests note missing fire ring grates and steep stairs unsuitable for children or elderly pets.
HostNull as no host details are provided.
Campground Map
6286 MAIN STREET
Driving directionsTake Highway 95/2 north from the Bonners Ferry Ranger Station for 5 miles. Turn right onto Highway 2 and head east for 2 miles. Turn left onto Meadow Creek Road and head north and east for 10 miles to the bridge over the Moyie River. Turn right onto Road 2541 (Placer Creek Road) and go east 1.5 miles. Next, drive north on Road 2540 for 6 miles until the road ends at Deer Ridge Lookout.
The lookout can be accessed by car, and the gravel road to the lookout is well-maintained.Nearby places
Bonners Ferry (24 miles, approximately 1 hour driving).
Nearby supplies
Bonners Ferry (24 miles away) for groceries and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.7
14 reviews
Deer Ridge Lookout is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Deer Ridge Lookout is praised for its cleanliness, solitude, and stunning views. The facility receives high ratings for its scenic beauty and well-maintained conditions. Guests enjoy hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and huckleberry picking. Common complaints include the occasional missing cooking grate and challenges with the steep stairs.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Well-maintained facility, breathtaking views, access to hiking trails directly from the lookout, abundant huckleberries during late summer, and opportunities for stargazing at night. 'Really lovely,...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Pit toilet odor during warm summer months, steep stairs that challenge older dogs or less agile individuals, occasional missing cooking grates for fire rings. 'The outhouse can get a little aromatic.'
Based on 14 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring garbage bags for waste management. Consider bringing a cooking grate in case the fire ring is missing one. Exercise caution climbing steep stairs and secure permits for fishing in advance. 'Use...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is favored for huckleberry picking and clear mountain views. Fall receives praise for changing foliage and peaceful sunsets. Winter may bring moderate snow, impacting accessibility but...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Well appointed, safe, clean, sturdy and incredible mountain top views.' 2. 'The outhouse is rustic but usable to all but the most picky camper.' 3. 'Everything was neat and tidy.' 4. 'Had a few...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 001 is highlighted for its cleanliness and proximity to hiking trails: 'Hiking trails right out the front steps.'
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
The steep stairs posed challenges for older dogs and potentially for individuals with mobility issues: 'Our old dog wasn't able to get up the steep stairs to the top.'
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets may face difficulty accessing the cabin due to steep stairs. 'Our old dog wasn't able to get up the steep stairs to the top.'
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025