Spyglass Ground House
04 reviews2502 East Sherman Ave, Coeur d Alene, ID 83814
Spyglass Ground House
$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
The nightly rate for renting the cabin is $45 during peak season (July 10, 2025 - September 14, 2025). Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched atop Spyglass Peak, this lovingly restored 1930s cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness retreat. After its careful restoration in 2019, the historic Spyglass Ground House now welcomes up to four guests to experience dry camping at its finest. Wake to misty mountain mornings, spend days exploring miles of hiking trails, and discover pristine fishing streams that have been drawing outdoor enthusiasts to this remote sanctuary for over a century.
Spyglass Lookout Ground House is a historic rental cabin offering a unique dry camping experience. It is limited to cabin rental only, with no tent or RV camping allowed.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at this National Historic Lookout Register site, where forest rangers first kept watch in 1911. The original lookout tower, erected in the 1920s, stood sentinel over these peaks for decades. Today's visitors can explore the beautifully preserved 1930s gable-roof ground house and even discover the original Civilian Conservation Corps-built outhouse—charming reminders of the dedicated men who once called this mountaintop home while protecting Idaho's vast wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unveils Spyglass Peak in all its glory, with the cabin welcoming guests during its prime season from July 10 through September 14, 2025. These precious months offer the perfect window to experience the Idaho wilderness at its most accessible, when mountain meadows bloom with wildflowers and warm days give way to crisp, star-filled nights at elevation.
ElevationAt 5,190 feet above sea level, Spyglass Peak offers a true alpine experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and you'll feel delightfully removed from the world below. This elevation provides cooler temperatures perfect for summer escapes and positions you among the clouds, where morning fog often drifts through the surrounding peaks before revealing spectacular panoramic vistas.
Natural Features and SceneryThe majestic Coeur d'Alene Mountains embrace Spyglass Peak in a stunning tapestry of old-growth forests, dramatic ridgelines, and hidden valleys carved by tributaries of the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River. This untamed landscape serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—from magnificent moose and bugling elk to elusive wolves and mountain lions. Lucky visitors might spot whitetail or mule deer grazing in meadows at dawn, while black bears forage in berry patches and grouse flutter through the understory.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of the Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Spyglass Peak stands as a commanding presence within the ancient Coeur d'Alene Mountains. This rugged geological wonderland showcases millions of years of natural artistry, where dense coniferous forests blanket weathered slopes, crystalline streams cascade through hidden drainages, and the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River and its tributaries have carved deep valleys that create a landscape of breathtaking contrasts and endless exploration opportunities.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are indicated. The location’s remote and rugged environment, including a steep single-lane access road, may present challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 14 x 14 feet, suitable for a maximum of 4 guests.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, located on Spyglass Peak, ensuring privacy due to its remote nature. However, occasional ATV and UTV traffic has been reported.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers mention bringing flashlights to operate the gate lock, as well as adequate outdoor supplies like water and food storage.
Best CampsitesOnly one available camping site: the Spyglass Ground House itself.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights
- total annual stay limit is 5 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin occupancy limit is 4 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout; no tent or RV camping allowed.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season from July 10, 2025, to September 14, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyStandard $10 cancellation fee applies; late cancellations for cabins result in forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival date.
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
Activities around Spyglass Lookout Ground House include hiking on nearby trails, fishing in local streams, and enjoying the natural surroundings. The site is also suitable for wildlife viewing, photography, and picnicking. Seasonal berry and mushroom picking are available as well.
Hiking
The cabin is close to several hiking trails. Fearn Creek Trail (#407) is 1.5 miles away, and the upper trailhead for Halsey Creek (#451) is about 2 miles away. Within an 8-10 mile range are the Boundary Peak Trail (#325), the lower end of Halsey Creek Trail, and the Little Elk Creek Trail (#32). Independence Creek National Recreation Trail (#22) offers opportunities for multiple activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.Fishing
Fishing is available at Tepee Creek, a nearby stream known for its westslope cutthroat trout fishery. Visitors have described it as a favorite spot for fly fishing.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities exist on the Independence Creek National Recreation Trail (#22), which is accessible from the cabin.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, whitetail and mule deer, wolves, black bears, mountain lions, fishers, and numerous bird species such as goshawks. Visitors often enjoy spotting these animals in the surrounding forests.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, although winter access may be challenging due to the location’s remote nature and steep access road.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as activities in the vicinity of the Spyglass Lookout Ground House.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in the designated fire pit, but wood stove use is restricted during fire bans.
Hazards
General hazardsThe final access road (Road 265) is single-lane with ruts and limited turnouts, requiring caution. Wildlife hazards include black bears and mountain lions.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.8 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
Emergency services and ranger stations are not specifically mentioned; closest known city is Coeur d'Alene.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 10, 2025 - September 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingThe facility operates on a Pack In/Pack Out policy. Visitors must bring garbage bags and are expected to take all their waste with them when leaving.
Proximity to water featuresNearby fishing streams include Tepee Creek, known for its westslope cutthroat trout fishery.
Common complaintsComplaints include the difficulty of operating the gate lock and the obstructed views from the cabin due to overgrowth.
HostNo host presence is mentioned.
Campground Map
2502 East Sherman Ave, Coeur d Alene, ID 83814
Driving directionsFrom I-90 take Exit #43 (Kingston) and drive 24 miles north on Forest Highway 9 (2-lane and paved) to Prichard Junction. Continue on Forest Road 208 for 28 miles to the end of the pavement and the start of Forest Road 6310 (a gravel road with large rocks and potholes). Travel 7 miles to Magee Ranger's Cabin historic site, then continue approx. 1/4/ mi. to the junction with Forest Road 422. Turn left on Road 422 for about 1/2 mile, then left on Road 265. Road 265 is a windy, single lane road with ruts and limited turnouts. Use caution and go slow. Continue past the Magee Airstrip and cross the bridge over Tepee Creek (Forest Road 422) and continue on Road 265 towards Spyglass Peak for 6 miles. At an unsigned intersection near the top of Spyglass Peak take a right turn and unlock service road gate with the combination that is emailed in your confirmation letter. This is the bottom of the access road to Spyglass Lookout Ground House. Drive past the gate ¼ mile until you come to the top of Spyglass Peak and the rental cabin. Travel time from Coeur d'Alene is approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes.
The access roads vary from paved to gravel with large rocks and potholes. Forest Road 208 is paved but transitions to gravel at Forest Road 6310. The final stretch, Road 265, is described as a windy single-lane road with ruts and limited turnouts, requiring cautious and slow driving.Nearby places
Coeur d'Alene (approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes away), Kingston (approximately 24 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Visitors are advised to bring all essential supplies including water, sleeping bags, food storage, lanterns, and cooking stoves. No nearby supply stores are explicitly referenced.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Spyglass Ground House has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for the Spyglass Lookout Ground House highlight its scenic, peaceful location and well-maintained facilities. However, the challenging gate lock and occasional disturbance from off-road vehicle users are noted as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cabin’s cleanliness and excellent condition. "Outstandingly clean and well maintained for a FS cabin," wrote Daniel M. Guests also appreciated the natural beauty and serenity of the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users found the gate and lock mechanism frustrating, with Daniel M. calling it "an exercise in pure frustration" and describing the process as cumbersome and time-consuming. Mike B. expressed...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a flashlight to help with the gate lock, as advised by Daniel M. Carry extra firewood since the stove burns smaller diameter wood. Be prepared to pack out all trash due to the Pack In/Pack Out...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The summer season sees most visitors, with activities like berry picking being a highlight. ATV noise appears to be more common during peak seasons.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Outstandingly clean and well maintained for a FS cabin. Clean pit toilet. Really one of the nicer FS cabins I've stayed in." - Daniel M.
2. "Definitely took a ways to get to but the journey was...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews beyond general comments on the cabin were provided.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No user reviews specifically addressed accessibility concerns, though the challenging road and gate may pose issues for individuals with mobility limitations.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed inside the cabin, which may be a limitation for some users.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025