Drake Peak Lookout
4.157 reviews18049 HWY 395, LAKEVIEW, OR 97630, USA
Drake Peak Lookout
$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: $40 per night during peak season (June 15 - October 15). Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Perched majestically atop the Warner Mountain Range, Drake Peak Lookout invites adventurers to step into a piece of living history. This charming rustic cabin, once a sentinel watching for wildfire threats across the wilderness, has transformed into an extraordinary mountain retreat where visitors can experience the same breathtaking 360-degree views that forest rangers relied upon for decades. Here, at the edge of the sky, modern explorers find themselves immersed in the raw beauty and solitude that defines the American West.
Drake Peak Lookout is distinct from typical campgrounds and caters to campers seeking a rustic cabin experience with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceStanding as a testament to America's mid-century conservation efforts, Drake Peak Lookout was constructed in 1948 as part of an extensive network of fire detection stations that dotted the Pacific Northwest. These lonely outposts, staffed by dedicated fire spotters who spent months in solitude, played a crucial role in protecting millions of acres of wilderness. Today, this historic cabin stands among the few remaining lookouts accessible to the public, offering a tangible connection to the brave individuals who once called these remote peaks home while safeguarding our natural heritage.
Weather and SeasonsAt Drake Peak, you'll experience the dramatic moods of high-altitude weather that can shift from brilliant sunshine to windswept drama in moments. Summer brings warm days perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, while autumn nights can plunge to single digits, creating crystal-clear stargazing conditions. The sweet spot for visitors runs from June through October, when wildflowers paint the meadows and golden light bathes the volcanic peaks. Come prepared for nature's full spectrum – from possible snow flurries to dry desert winds that carry the scent of sage across the mountaintop.
ElevationAt a breathtaking 8,222 feet above sea level, Drake Peak Lookout places you literally above the clouds, where the air is crisp and thin, and the horizon seems infinite. This lofty perch offers more than just spectacular views – it's a place where you can watch storm systems roll in from hundreds of miles away, witness sunrise paint three states in golden hues, and experience the profound silence that only comes with extreme elevation. The high-altitude environment creates a unique ecosystem where hardy wildflowers bloom in brief bursts of color and the night sky reveals celestial wonders invisible at lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom Drake Peak's commanding vantage point, an epic tapestry of the American West unfolds in every direction. To the east, ancient volcanic landscapes tell stories written in basalt and ash, while golden sage basins stretch toward the horizon like nature's own infinity pools. On clear days, your gaze can travel across three states, taking in the rugged profiles of Oregon's high desert, California's volcanic wonderlands, and Nevada's distant ranges. This pristine wilderness serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife – from herds of Rocky Mountain elk traversing the meadows below to elusive mountain lions padding through the shadows. Lucky visitors might spot pronghorn antelope racing across the sage flats, black bears foraging in distant valleys, or bobcats hunting among the rocky outcrops.
Geological RegionDrake Peak Lookout crowns the Warner Mountain Range at 8,222 feet, a dramatic geological wonderland where ancient volcanic forces and tectonic upheaval have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary diversity. The Warner Mountains themselves are a testament to millions of years of volcanic activity, with massive uplifted basalt formations creating dramatic cliff faces and rugged ridgelines. From the lookout, you can trace the geological story written across the landscape – from the weathered volcanic peaks of Twelvemile, Light, and Crook peaks to the sprawling sage-covered basins that fill the valleys between ancient lava flows. This unique position at the intersection of the Great Basin and Cascade geological provinces offers visitors a front-row seat to one of the West's most fascinating geological theaters.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited given the rugged and remote location of the cabin, which requires travel on unpaved roads. No specific details on accessibility for individuals with disabilities were provided.
Sites SizeThe cabin is small, measuring 14x14 feet, and is designed to accommodate up to four people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a high level of privacy due to its remote location atop the Warner Mountain Range.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring blue painter's tape to cover window gaps; bring mantels for propane lights. Prepare for cold, windy conditions with adequate supplies.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite exists: the Drake Peak Lookout cabin.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay 7 nights
- minimum stay 2 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 4 guests allowed in the lookout cabin.
Groups
The site does not feature group camping options.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin lookout, 14 x 14 feet, with outdoor picnic table and vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 15 to October 15. Not reservable outside this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityUnavailable outside the reservable season period.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees apply. $10 fee for changes or cancellations made before arrival. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) and no-shows forfeit the first night's fee.
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
Drake Peak Lookout offers several recreational activities that cater to nature enthusiasts and those seeking solitude. 'Hiking, stargazing, and wildlife viewing are popular activities,' and the nearby Drake-McDowell area provides excellent opportunities for backpackers and horseback riders. The lookout is especially suited for stargazing due to its expansive night skies.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include a trek to the summit of Drake Peak and trails in the Drake-McDowell area, which offer spectacular views of the Warner Mountains, Hart Mountain, Warner Valley, and Abert Rim.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as an activity, though no specific trails or details about terrain are provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species in the area include deer, Rocky Mountain elk, pronghorn, black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and a variety of migratory birds such as geese, ducks, and swans during spring and fall.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not described, though colder months are noted in user reviews for their challenging climate.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed but firewood not provided. Follow invasive species transport rules.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours noted.
Hazards
General hazardsNo water supply on site; wildlife such as mountain lions and black bears present. Windows don't fit tightly; bugs may enter. Propane lights may not function.
Active alertsCheck with Lakeview Ranger District for fire or road closures, and weather-related advisories.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 6.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
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
Lakeview Ranger District Office - 2 miles north of Lakeview on Highway 395.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15 - October 15.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all garbage and food to preserve the site's cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresNo water bodies directly adjacent; nearest refill station is Mud Creek Campground, 6 miles away.
Common complaintsIssues with broken cots and propane lights noted in user reviews. Bugs entering through loose windows. Cold and windy conditions reported.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
18049 HWY 395, LAKEVIEW, OR 97630, USA
Driving directionsFrom the Lakeview Ranger District Office, travel 6 miles north on Highway 395, and turn right on Highway 140. Take Highway 140 east for 8 miles, then turn left on Forest Road 3615. Continue on Forest Road 3615 for 7.5 miles and turn right on Forest Road 019. Follow Forest Road 019 for 5 miles to the lookout.
Accessible via unpaved forest roads. The final 5 miles are on Forest Road 019, which may require careful navigation. Seasonal closures or weather-related challenges may exist.Nearby places
Lakeview (approximately 8 miles, 15-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Water refill station at Mud Creek Campground (6 miles away). No other supply information provided.
Camper Reviews
4.2
7 reviews
Drake Peak Lookout is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently highlight the unique and rustic nature of the Drake Peak Lookout experience, emphasizing stunning views, memorable stargazing opportunities, and the peaceful solitude offered by its remote location.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned across reviews include breathtaking views, cozy warmth from the wood stove, and the ability to see constellations and the Milky Way during clear nights. Guests also praised...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include broken cots, malfunctioning propane lights, and the lack of water or firewood on-site. Some reviewers noted that the cabin's windows lack screens, leading to issues with...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing painter's tape to seal window cracks and screen material to address the lack of window screens. It is also advised to bring sufficient firewood and additional lighting...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate colder months can be challenging due to extreme temperatures and windy conditions. Summer months likely offer more favorable weather for stargazing and hiking.
Based on 7 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'We love it. The view is amazing. The Cabin is rustic.' 2. 'Went in the beginning of October so it was a bit cold (and very windy) but the wood stove kept us feeling toasty.' 3. 'Despite these...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specifically mention campsite 001 and its location within AREA DRAKE PEAK LOOKOUT. This site was highlighted for its scenic views but also noted issues with maintenance such as broken cots.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at Drake Peak Lookout, but no specific reviews or experiences related to pets were provided.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025