Big Creek Baldy. Lookout Rental
4.7510 reviews12557 HWY. 37, LIBBY, MT 59923-8212, USA
Big Creek Baldy. Lookout Rental
$55.00 - $55.00 / 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 Big Creek Baldy Lookout is $55 during the peak season from June 30 to September 30. Additional fees may apply for cancellations or changes to reservations.
About this campground
Perched atop a 52-foot fire lookout tower in the heart of Kootenai National Forest, Big Creek Baldy Lookout transforms the traditional camping experience into an unforgettable sky-high adventure. This historic tower beckons those seeking solitude and spectacular vistas, offering modern propane-powered conveniences while maintaining the authentic charm of a working fire lookout. Here, self-sufficiency meets stunning scenery, creating a perfect escape for adventurers ready to trade ground-level views for a bird's-eye perspective of Montana's wilderness.
Big Creek Baldy Lookout is designed for overnight stays in a historic fire lookout tower. While it isn’t a traditional campground, the lookout offers a unique lodging experience suitable for small groups or families.
Historical SignificanceFor more than six decades, this sentinel has stood watch over the forest, its vigilant lookouts scanning the horizon for the telltale wisps of smoke that could signal danger. Today, the tower serves a different purpose—connecting modern visitors to this rich firefighting heritage. As one grateful guest beautifully expressed, 'Absolutely thankful to the Forest Service that they chose to share these fire lookouts with all of us,' capturing the sentiment of countless visitors who've experienced this living piece of history where dedication to forest protection meets public appreciation.
Weather and SeasonsSummer nights at Big Creek Baldy reveal a celestial theater under pristine, clear skies that make stargazing an otherworldly experience. The tower's elevated position creates its own microclimate where gentle breezes whisper through the lookout's windows and temperatures remain refreshingly cool even on warm days. As seasons shift, visitors should come prepared for the mountain's moods—gusty winds that rock the tower like a ship at sea, and during wetter months, the approach road can transform into a muddy adventure that adds to the journey's wild character.
ElevationAt 5,780 feet above sea level, Big Creek Baldy Lookout exists in a realm where the air grows thin and crisp, offering a natural air conditioning that provides welcome relief from valley heat. This lofty perch places visitors literally above the clouds on certain mornings, watching as fog fills the valleys below like pools of cotton while peaks emerge like islands in a white sea—a photographer's dream and a soul-stirring sight that makes the journey to this elevated sanctuary worthwhile.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your 360-degree viewing platform, the Purcell Range unfolds in magnificent layers of green-cloaked peaks stretching to the horizon, while the sapphire waters of Lake Koocanusa glimmer like a jewel set among the mountains. The sinuous curves of the Yaak River Valley carve through the landscape below, creating a living map of watersheds and wildlife corridors. This is prime habitat for the region's most majestic residents—elk bugling in autumn meadows, moose wading through marshy bottomlands, and the occasional bear ambling across distant clearings, all visible from your tower's commanding viewpoint.
Geological RegionRising from the ancient backbone of the Purcell Range within the greater Rocky Mountain system, Big Creek Baldy occupies a geological crossroads where tectonic forces have sculpted a dramatic landscape over millions of years. The surrounding Kootenai National Forest blankets these peaks in a dense emerald tapestry of conifers, while the sparkling expanse of Lake Koocanusa—a reservoir carved into mountain valleys—and the winding Yaak River Valley below tell the ongoing story of water's patient work in shaping this rugged terrain. This is a landscape that speaks to both the violent upheavals of deep time and the gentle persistence of erosion and growth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGuests must navigate steep and rocky roads to access the lookout, which may be unsuitable for low-clearance vehicles. The lookout itself is elevated 52 feet, posing challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeThe cabin has a compact 225 square-foot interior space.
Sites PrivacyThe lookout provides excellent seclusion atop Big Creek Baldy Mountain, with gated access ensuring privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests suggest bringing fly swatters, extra propane, and sleeping pads. High-clearance vehicles are essential for accessing the rough road.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite is available, located within the Big Creek Baldy Lookout tower.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay: 5 consecutive nights per visit
- 15 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 4 guests can stay in the lookout per reservation.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this location.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe lookout tower is a single-site structure with a 225 sq. ft. cabin encircled by a catwalk.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from mid-June through late September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before check-in. Late cancellations or changes are subject to facility discretion.
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
Big Creek Baldy Lookout offers a range of outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy hiking trails around the lookout and explore over 400 miles of summer trails in the Libby area. The elevated location and panoramic views make it ideal for stargazing. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with sightings of species such as deer, elk, moose, grizzly and black bears, wolves, and mountain lions. Additionally, smaller mammals and birds inhabit the area.
Hiking
The lookout offers access to hiking trails nearby. The Libby area features over 400 miles of summer-use trails. User reviews suggest trails near the lookout may lack maintenance and are marked with stone cairns and signposts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are exceptional, with the area supporting deer, elk, moose, bears (grizzly and black), wolves, and mountain lions. Smaller mammals and various bird species are also common.Winter Activities
Winter recreation activities are not specified, although elevation and weather conditions suggest limited winter usability.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are not listed as activities for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in the designated ring outside the tower; firewood must be brought by guests.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and mountain lions. "Bear safety" precautions are recommended.
Active alertsAccess depends on weather conditions; the last mile of the road is rough.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.6 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 are accessible in Libby, MT, approximately 20 miles away. For urgent assistance, contact the local Ranger District at (406) 293-7773.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 30 - September 30 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingGuests are responsible for packing out their trash. Recycling facilities are not mentioned. Proper trash management is emphasized to maintain the site’s cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresLake Koocanusa and Yaak River Valley are nearby natural features visible from the lookout.
Common complaintsSome guests mentioned inconveniences such as the propane not being turned on before arrival and limited sleeping accommodations for four people despite the capacity stated.
HostGuests must contact the Ranger District at (406) 293-7773 to confirm the lock combination for access.
Campground Map
12557 HWY. 37, LIBBY, MT 59923-8212, USA
Driving directionsFrom Libby, travel 1 mile north on Highway 37 to Pipe Creek Road. Turn left and follow for 19 miles, then turn east (right) onto East Fork Pipe Creek Road/Big Creek Baldy Road 336. Proceed about three-quarters of a mile and then turn right onto Big Creek Baldy Mountain Road 309. Follow this road for 5 miles to the lookout. The last mile is fairly rough but can be negotiated with vehicles having high ground clearance.
The road leading to the lookout is rough for the last mile, requiring a high-clearance vehicle. "The road past the gate is pretty rocky in spots and steep – doable but was glad to have a truck and not my Subaru," noted one reviewer. Seasonal access depends on weather conditions.Nearby places
Libby (approximately 20 miles, 30-minute drive). Eureka is also accessible but involves a longer drive with possible obstacles like downed trees.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials, are located in Libby, MT, approximately 20 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
10 reviews
Big Creek Baldy. Lookout Rental is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the unique experience of staying in a historic fire lookout with breathtaking views and abundant privacy. Visitors appreciate the propane amenities and the chance to connect with nature. However, some reviews note minor inconveniences, such as rough road access and the limited sleeping arrangements for four people.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praise the spectacular views, cleanliness, and historical significance of the lookout. Many enjoyed hiking nearby trails, stargazing, and the propane-equipped amenities. User quotes emphasize...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Recurring issues include the rocky road requiring high-clearance vehicles, bedding limitations for four guests, and occasional instances of propane not being turned on upon arrival. Hiking trails...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cleaning supplies and extra bedding if traveling with four people. Fly swatters are recommended due to insects, and unlocking the gate requires the combination provided by the ranger station....
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The lookout is most popular during its open season from mid-June through late September, with visitors praising the clear skies and starry nights. Weather conditions outside this period are less...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Awesome lookout! Bring your own fly swatters though, the only one there was pretty tattered." (ALLISON D, 4/5)
2. "My family and I had so much fun at the lookout! It's definitely worth all of the...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is the only designated spot at this campground. Visitors often comment on the cabin’s cleanliness, propane features, and unparalleled views.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessing the lookout requires navigating steep and rocky roads, which may pose challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. The tower itself is elevated, requiring climbing steps to reach...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically mention pet policies or experiences.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025