Bald Butte Lookout (Fremont-Winema National Forest, Or)
3.1514 reviews303 HWY 31, PAISLEY, OR 97636, USA
Bald Butte Lookout (Fremont-Winema National Forest, Or)
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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
Cabin Nonelectric costs $40 per night during Peak Season (June 15 - October 15). Out-of-season reservations are not available.
About this campground
High above the Oregon wilderness, Bald Butte Lookout stands as a sentinel of history and adventure. This rare 1931 Aladdin L4 fire lookout—one of only two surviving in Oregon—invites modern travelers to experience the same sweeping vistas that forest rangers have watched over for nearly a century. From its lofty perch in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, this restored cabin offers an authentic taste of solitude and the romantic appeal of staying in a piece of living history.
Bald Butte Lookout exclusively offers cabin-based accommodations without tent or RV camping options. It caters to visitors seeking a rustic stay with basic amenities.
Historical SignificanceStep back to 1931, when this Aladdin L4 lookout arrived as a kit and was assembled piece by piece atop Bald Butte. For generations, fire spotters lived and worked in this compact tower, scanning the horizon for telltale wisps of smoke that could spell disaster for the forest below. Today, this architectural treasure serves as a window into the Forest Service's pioneering era of fire management, when dedicated rangers spent months in isolation protecting America's wild lands.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Bald Butte, where mountain weather creates its own dramatic theater. Summer nights surprise visitors with their crisp chill, while persistent winds sing through the lookout's windows year-round. Brave souls who venture here during shoulder seasons should come prepared for true alpine conditions—temperatures have plummeted to a teeth-chattering 15°F. Pack your warmest sleeping bag and embrace the invigorating mountain air that makes every sunrise feel earned.
ElevationWhile the exact elevation remains nature's secret, Bald Butte's commanding position delivers the kind of panoramic views that steal your breath—and not just from the thin air. The lookout's exposed summit location explains those famous winds and bone-chilling nights; you're literally sleeping among the clouds. This is high-country living at its most authentic, where the rewards of stunning vistas come paired with the raw elements of mountain weather.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare for sensory overload as you drink in 360-degree views of Oregon's untamed backcountry. Snow-capped volcanic peaks pierce the horizon while ancient lava flows tell stories millions of years in the making. Below, sage-scented basins stretch toward the nearby Gearhart Wilderness, where crystalline streams feed the jewel-like Blue Lake. Rocky ridgelines create a dramatic skyline, their weathered formations standing like monuments to geological time. This is wilderness photography heaven, where every window frames a masterpiece.
Geological RegionBald Butte rises from the heart of the Fremont-Winema National Forest, a landscape sculpted by fire and ice across millennia. This geological wonderland showcases Oregon's volcanic heritage through dramatic peaks and ancient lava flows, while sprawling sage basins whisper of the high desert's influence. Just beyond, the Gearhart Wilderness beckons with its crown jewel, Blue Lake, fed by pristine mountain streams. Weathered rock formations cap the high ridges like nature's own sculptures, creating a terrain that feels both timeless and ever-changing with the light.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilet is accessible, and the cabin features basic amenities suitable for rustic stays. However, the road conditions limit accessibility to vehicles with significant clearance or four-wheel drive capability.
Sites SizeThe cabin measures 14' x 14'.
Sites PrivacyThe site is secluded and offers privacy due to its remote location and limited capacity.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests are advised to bring bug spray, extra bedding for wire cots, water, and additional heating for cold nights.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite available (Lookout cabin).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 7 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified.
Groups
:null
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle lookout cabin at the summit of Bald Butte.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 15 to October 15. Closed outside these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov. For inquiries, call: 541-943-3114.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations less than 14 days before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. No refunds for cancellations after the check-in date begins. Reservations are non-refundable after arrival time.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bald Butte Lookout provides opportunities for hiking, birding, wildlife viewing, stargazing, and scenic exploration. Specific trails nearby include the Bald Butte Trail and paths within Gearhart Mountain Wilderness. Stargazing is a standout activity due to clear night skies, with one review highlighting the "Perseid meteor shower" as a memorable event.
Hiking
The Bald Butte Trail offers quiet all-season hiking with varied terrain such as open meadows with wildflowers, heavily wooded forests, and ridge-top scrambles. Nearby Gearhart Mountain Wilderness also provides hiking options.Wildlife viewing
Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, especially during hikes. Bald Butte Trail and Gearhart Mountain Wilderness are noted for their scenic natural environments.Winter Activities
Winter camping might be challenging due to cold temperatures, as noted by guests, but the secluded environment might appeal to some campers seeking solitude.Water Sports
Water sports are not applicable to this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies detailed. Guests are advised to use local firewood to prevent invasive species spread.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsHorsefly and bee infestations mentioned frequently in user reviews. Reports of challenging terrain, cold temperatures, and broken facilities like heaters.
Active alertsInformation about road closures and poor road conditions mentioned in reviews but not officially confirmed.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Paisley Ranger District Office: 541-943-3114, no additional emergency service details provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15 - October 15.
Trash and recyclingTrash removal and recycling facilities are not available on-site. Guests must pack out all garbage and food waste.
Proximity to water featuresStreams and Blue Lake located in nearby Gearhart Wilderness.
Common complaintsFrequent mentions of fly and bee infestations, broken heaters, and challenging road conditions.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
303 HWY 31, PAISLEY, OR 97636, USA
Driving directionsFrom the Paisley District Office, travel 0.5 miles north on Highway 31 and turn left on Mill Street. Stay on Mill Street to the Y junction (turns into gravel at this point), then turn right on Forest Road 3315. Continue on Forest Road 3315 for 21 miles. Turn left on Forest Road 28, and travel 0.5 miles to the junction with Forest Road 3411. Turn right on Forest Road 3411 and travel 2 miles to Forest Road 450 (450 is not marked, there is a sign that says Bald Butte with an arrow). Turn right on Forest Road 450; this leads to the top of Bald Butte. The last 2 miles of road on Forest Road 450 to Bald Butte Lookout are minimally passable for low clearance or highway vehicles. The road is steep, rough and may have large rocks that should be moved. Large RVs are not recommended on this road.
The last 2 miles are minimally passable for low clearance or highway vehicles due to steep, rough terrain and large rocks. Large RVs are not recommended. 'The road to the top, last mile or two, is terrible,' according to user reviews. Some reviews mention overgrown vegetation and pinstriping risks for vehicles.Nearby places
Paisley (0.5 miles to Mill Street), other nearby distances not specified.
Nearby supplies
Guests must bring all essential supplies, including water, toilet paper, and sleeping gear. No mention of nearby grocery or fuel locations.
Camper Reviews
3.2
14 reviews
Bald Butte Lookout (Fremont-Winema National Forest, Or) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews for Bald Butte Lookout are mixed, with positive highlights focused on scenic views, seclusion, and stargazing opportunities. Negative aspects include poor road conditions, insect infestations, and maintenance issues within the cabin.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests frequently praise the lookout for its scenic views, secluded environment, and opportunities for stargazing. One review states, "It felt like we were the only people in the world...truly a...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Guests commonly report issues with insect infestations, particularly horseflies and bees, as well as the poor condition of the road leading to the site. "The cabin had a massive horsefly and bee...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing bug spray, fly traps, and additional bedding for the cots. Several reviews stress the importance of bringing supplies such as water, toilet paper, and extra blankets due to...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that summer provides the most favorable conditions for enjoying the lookout, with activities like stargazing and wildflower hikes being mentioned. Winter temperatures make the cabin...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The views were amazing!" (Mark Jones) "This place melded somehow with our souls." (Paige L) "Horseflies and bees forced us out; we ended up staying in a motel." (Amanda T) "The road was terrible,...
Based on 14 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 reviews highlight the cabin's insect issues and maintenance concerns. Guests also mention the site's scenic views and night sky conditions.
Based on 14 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited due to poor road conditions and the inability of low-clearance vehicles to make the journey. The vault toilet is described as accessible.
Based on 14 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Guests confirm that pets are welcome but note that the cabin's rustic conditions may challenge pet owners. "Pets are welcome at this facility" is stated in the authoritative source.
Based on 14 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025