Gem Peak Lookout Rental
4.4714 reviews2693 MT Hwy. 200
Gem Peak Lookout Rental
$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 facility rate for the cabin is $45 per night during peak season (June 28th to October 10th). Additional fees may apply for changes to reservations ($10) and cancellations ($10 plus forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late).
About this campground
Perched atop a 30-foot tower, the historic Gem Peak Lookout Rental invites adventurers to sleep among the clouds with breathtaking 360-degree views of the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness and the winding Clark Fork River below. This lovingly renovated fire lookout combines rustic charm with essential comforts—twin beds await weary travelers, while a crackling wood stove keeps the mountain chill at bay. Firewood waits at the tower's base, ensuring cozy evenings spent watching alpenglow paint the surrounding peaks.
The campground is available for cabin rental atop a 30-foot tower with primitive facilities.
Historical SignificanceSince 1921, watchful eyes have scanned the horizon from Gem Peak Lookout, protecting the Cabinet Ranger District's precious forests from the threat of wildfire. This sentinel of the wilderness has witnessed nearly a century of changing seasons, evolving from a crucial firefighting outpost to a unique mountain retreat where modern adventurers can connect with the legacy of the brave souls who once called this tower home.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints a different masterpiece at Gem Peak. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, though heavy snows and freezing temperatures demand proper preparation and a spirit of adventure. Summer rewards visitors with crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for stargazing from your tower-top perch. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forests burst into a tapestry of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges—a photographer's dream come true.
ElevationThe dramatic landscape surrounding Gem Peak showcases nature's architectural prowess, with majestic peaks soaring between 6,000 and 8,700 feet into the Montana sky. This vertical playground offers endless opportunities for exploration, from gentle meadow walks to challenging summit attempts.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an enchanted realm where towering mixed conifer forests shelter an ancient cedar grove—living monuments that have stood watch for centuries. Come spring and summer, alpine meadows explode with rainbow displays of wildflowers, creating natural gardens that rival any cultivated landscape. When autumn arrives, deciduous trees and shrubs join the seasonal celebration, transforming the mountainsides into a living canvas of warm yellows, fiery reds, and glowing oranges.
Geological RegionGem Peak Lookout commands a strategic position high above the Clark Fork River at the southern gateway to the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness. Below, the mighty Clark Fork carves its ancient path northward and westward, joined along its journey by the Bull and Vermilion Rivers in a timeless dance of flowing waters. This rugged mountain kingdom, with peaks reaching skyward between 6,000 and 8,700 feet, offers a dramatic backdrop that changes with every shift of light and shadow.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe lookout cabin is not specifically noted to have accessibility features, but access may depend on weather conditions and durability of vehicles.
Sites Size225 square foot cabin available atop the tower.
Sites PrivacyThe lookout cabin offers limited privacy as it is open to public visitors during the day. Some users reported visitors arriving at the site even when occupied.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 001 is recommended for its clean conditions and excellent views. Visitors advise arriving prepared to deal with flies and rocky road conditions.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 is the only site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
- 5consecutive nights per visit
- 15 nights total within a rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 4 people.
Groups
No group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle tower cabin atop a 30-foot platform.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season from June 28th to October 10th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservation dates are subject to a $10 fee; cancellations also incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled less than 14 days prior to 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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Gem Peak Lookout provides an array of recreational opportunities including hiking, OHV riding, mountain biking, berry picking, hunting, and scenic wildflower viewing. Seasonal huckleberry picking is popular in the area surrounding the lookout.
Hiking
There are 400 miles of trails in the Cabinet Ranger District, 150 miles of which are open to motorized use. A trailhead near the lookout offers access for both hiking and OHV riding.Biking
Several miles of gated roads are available for mountain bikers.Wildlife viewing
The area exhibits rich biodiversity and offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially in the mixed conifer forest and rugged peaks ranging from 6,000-8,700 feet in elevation.Winter Activities
Includes activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing within the Cabinet Ranger District.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood heating stove provided; guests must bring their own firewood and follow the "Don't Move Firewood" guidelines.
Hazards
General hazardsSharp drop-offs along rocky and steep roads are a significant hazard. Flies and broken windows have been reported as issues inside the lookout.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
Contact the Cabinet Ranger District at 406-827-3533 prior to arrival for emergency service details.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 28th to October 10th.
Trash and recyclingGuests are expected to pack out all trash and food. Trash collection is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Clark Fork River, Bull River, and Vermilion River.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include flies inside the lookout, broken windows, and rough road conditions.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
2693 MT Hwy. 200
Driving directionsFrom Noxon: Travel Pilgrim Creek Road 149 for approximately 13 miles to Road 2205. Follow Road 2205 for approximately 2 miles to the lookout. From Trout Creek: Travel road 2229 for 11.5 miles. Turn left after the Marten Creek Bridge and follow road 151 for approximately 11 miles to the junction with road 2213. Continue for 5.5 miles to the junction with road 2205. Turn right and follow road 2205 for 2 miles to the lookout.
Full vehicle access depends on weather conditions. Roads are described as rocky, steep, and narrow with sharp drop-offs in user reviews. "Pay CLOSE attention to the roads to be taken on your booking instructions," according to one reviewer. Another reviewer warns that "you need a DURABLE vehicle with all wheel drive and HIGH GROUND CLEARANCE." Road conditions are reportedly rough, particularly the last two miles.Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Trout Creek, MT, including Rode Haus Coffee, mentioned in user reviews.
Camper Reviews
4.5
14 reviews
Gem Peak Lookout Rental is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning views, rustic charm, and secluded nature of the Gem Peak Lookout cabin. However, there are mixed experiences due to road accessibility, flies, and occasional maintenance issues. Overall sentiment is positive with an average rating of 4.357 out of 5.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews praised the 'magnificent lookout spot' and 'stunning views' in every direction. The cabin's amenities such as the wood stove, clean vault toilet, and availability of firewood were...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several users noted flies as a persistent issue, particularly during warmer months. 'Hundreds of flies buzzing around,' one review stated. Another mentioned broken windows that allowed flies to...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommended bringing durable vehicles with high ground clearance for accessing the lookout. Avoid following Google Maps and use the directions provided during booking for safer routes. Bringing...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months appear favorable for enjoying views and berry picking despite reports of flies. Cooler months see reduced fly activity but may experience hazardous road conditions.
Based on 14 reviewsCamper Quotes
'Wow. Absolutely stunning views,' noted Michael Christensen. 'The last 2 miles to gain access to the tower are pretty horrid,' said Richard S. 'Stop by Rode Haus Coffee in Trout Creek for a drink and...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 001 Loop AREA GEM PEAK LOOKOUT RENTAL received mixed reviews: 'Great lookout!' (Anna B) contrasted with 'hundreds of flies buzzing around' (Tom C).
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
No explicit details about accessibility issues are provided in user comments.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets appear welcome, as one reviewer mentioned their dog enjoyed the area immensely.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025