Fivemile Butte Lookout
4.3327 reviewsRD4430-120 TURN LEFT, DUFUR, OR, 97021, USA
Fivemile Butte Lookout
$85.00 - $85.00 / 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 the Fivemile Butte Lookout is $85. Additional fees may apply for reservation changes ($10 fee) or cancellations ($10 fee, plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee if canceled late).
About this campground
Perched atop a 40-foot tower on Fivemile Butte, this extraordinary lookout rental invites adventurers to sleep among the clouds in Mt. Hood National Forest. Wake to sunrise painting three volcanic peaks—Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Rainier—in alpenglow, while endless trails beckon hikers and mountain bikers through ancient forests below. When winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, the journey becomes part of the adventure as visitors arrive by ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile.
The camping experience is centered around a unique restored lookout cabin atop a tower, offering a secluded and memorable stay. It is suitable for small groups or individuals.
Historical SignificanceThis storied fire lookout has watched over the forest since the 1920s, when early fire spotters first climbed wooden ladders to scan the horizon for smoke. Though fierce mountain storms have claimed previous structures, each rebuild has strengthened its resolve—the current tower, standing proud since 1957, continues its vigil as both guardian of the forest and gateway to unforgettable mountain experiences.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unveils the lookout's full splendor, with warm days perfect for exploration and cool nights ideal for stargazing from your tower perch. Vehicle access makes arrival straightforward during these months. Come winter, the landscape transforms into a snow-swept wilderness accessible only by cross-country skis, snowshoes, or snowmobile—turning your arrival into an exhilarating backcountry journey through powder-laden forests.
ElevationAt 4,627 feet above sea level, Fivemile Butte rises like a natural watchtower from the heart of Mt. Hood National Forest, placing you literally above the everyday world and often above the morning clouds that drift through the valleys below.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient Douglas firs and towering pines create a living cathedral around the lookout, their branches sheltering diverse wildlife from wild turkeys strutting through sun-dappled clearings to elk grazing in hidden meadows. Mountain streams cascade through the landscape, their music mingling with the calls of birds by day and the occasional howl of coyotes by night. Black bears and cougars roam these wild spaces, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionRising from the volcanic backbone of the Cascade Range, Fivemile Butte stands at 4,627 feet within Mt. Hood National Forest's tapestry of old-growth forests, alpine meadows, and rushing streams. This elevated outpost offers commanding views of the region's volcanic trinity—Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and Mt. Rainier—while immersing visitors in a landscape shaped by ancient lava flows, glacial carving, and centuries of forest succession.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe lookout tower is accessed via steep stairs which may be challenging for mobility-challenged individuals. The pulley system for gear might offer some assistance but the site is not wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe cabin is small, measuring 14-by-14 feet.
Sites PrivacyHigh privacy due to the secluded nature of the lookout tower.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra cooking utensils, toilet paper, and trash bags. Those with pets may face difficulties due to steep stairs.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite available at the lookout.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 nights during a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to registered guests only due to tower size.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle tower with a 14-by-14 room atop a 40-foot structure.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Access is seasonal, depending on snow levels.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability due to year-round reservation requirements for the lookout.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Cancellations made late (14 days or fewer before scheduled check-in) incur a $10 cancellation fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use 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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Fivemile Butte Lookout offers a variety of outdoor activities year-round. In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and taking in stunning mountain views of Hood, Adams, and Rainier. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Wildlife viewing is also a popular activity with sightings of wild turkeys, deer, elk, and bears.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity, especially along the Eightmile Trail which offers views of old growth pine forests, riparian areas, and meadows with wildflowers.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available, with some users mentioning being able to bike directly from the lookout.Wildlife viewing
The area provides opportunities for viewing wildlife such as wild turkeys, grouse, deer, elk, coyotes, and bears. The region is surrounded by forests and creeks which attract diverse fauna.Winter Activities
The lookout is popular for winter activities like cross-country skiing up to three miles from Billy Bob Sno-Park. Snowshoeing and snowmobiling are also common.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Indoor wood stove use only; no outdoor fires allowed.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bears, slippery catwalks and stairs, and swaying from high winds. Winter conditions may pose safety risks for inexperienced travelers.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.7 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
Barlow Ranger District Office (approximately 18 miles), Hood River Ranger District Office (approximately 45 miles), nearest hospital in Hood River, OR.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are responsible for packing out all trash as this is a 'Pack it in, Pack it out' facility.
Proximity to water featuresNear Eightmile Creek and riparian areas.
Common complaintsLimited cookware and utensils, some difficulty with the pulley system, and occasional issues with the solar-powered lights.
HostVolunteer assistance has been noted, including restoration work. There is no permanent host on-site.
Campground Map
RD4430-120 TURN LEFT, DUFUR, OR, 97021, USA
Driving directionsFrom Dufur, Oregon, travel west on Valley Road for about 18 miles to the junction of Forest Service Roads 44 and 4430, at Billy Bob Sno-Park (the road may be plowed to the Sno-Park). Turn right on Forest Service Road 4430-120, then turn left and follow to the spur road 122. There is a gate that you will have to unlock (in winter months the gate is left open), then follow the 122 road to the end. The route is approximately 3 miles and is marked with orange and blue diamond-shaped blazes. This route is not plowed, signed, or patrolled. Forest Service Roads 44 and 4430 are closed from December 1 to April 1, prohibiting motorized vehicles over 48 inches wide without a permit. During this period and depending on snow levels, visitors should park at Billy Bob Sno-Park and hike, ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile 3 miles to the lookout.
Seasonal road closures apply from December 1 to April 1 for motorized vehicles over 48 inches wide without a permit. During winter, the 3-mile route to the lookout is accessible only via hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling. Summer access requires unlocking a gate with a code provided upon reservation.Nearby places
Dufur (18 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car)
Nearby supplies
Billy Bob Sno-Park (parking and trailhead access), groceries and supplies are available in Dufur, approximately 18 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
27 reviews
Fivemile Butte Lookout is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the cabin's unique features, stunning views of Mt. Hood, Adams, and Rainier, and the adventure of accessing the site. Complaints are minimal with occasional mentions of needing better maintenance of certain features like the pulley system or solar lights.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
The standout features include the cabin's cleanliness, restoration, and the availability of firewood. Guests appreciated the breathtaking views and the cozy atmosphere inside the cabin. Wildlife...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some complaints include difficulties with the pulley system for gear, steep stairs being challenging for pets or guests, and occasional lack of stocked items like toilet paper or seasoned firewood.
Based on 27 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra toilet paper, paper towels, and garbage bags. Guests also recommend packing cookware and utensils, slippers, and candles for ambiance. Several reviewers highlight the importance of...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews emphasize the adventure and challenges of skiing or snowshoeing to the lookout. Spring and summer reviews focus on hiking and mountain biking activities, as well as enjoying clear...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'Wow! Josh (a volunteer, I think) did such a phenomenal job restoring the woodwork on the interior of the cabin. It is stunning.' - Angelique L. 'The views were amazing!' - Jen L. 'Our stay in the...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for campsite 001 praise its privacy, cleanliness, and stunning mountain views. One user noted issues with the pulley system and solar lights but overall satisfaction.
Based on 27 reviewsAccessibility Features
The stairs pose challenges for pets and individuals with mobility issues. The site is not wheelchair accessible.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but steep stairs are difficult for some animals. One reviewer noted their pet was afraid of the stairs and had to be carried.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025