Acker Rock Lookout
04 reviews27812 Tiller Trail Hwy, Tiller, OR, 97484, USA
Acker Rock 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
The nightly rate for the lookout during its peak season (August 1 to November 15) is $40. Additional reservation service fees apply ($8 for online, $9 for contact center, and $3 in-person).
About this campground
Perched dramatically atop a rocky cliff in the heart of Umpqua National Forest, Acker Rock Lookout invites adventurous souls to experience an extraordinary night above the clouds. This historic fire lookout transforms visitors into temporary guardians of the forest, offering sweeping 360-degree vistas across the South Umpqua watershed and the majestic peaks of the Rogue-Umpqua Divide. Wake to sunrise painting distant ridgelines gold, and fall asleep counting stars from your eagle's nest perspective.
Acker Rock Lookout is unique for its fire lookout-style accommodations perched atop a cliff. Tent, RV, or standard camping facilities are not provided.
Historical SignificanceSince the 1960s, Acker Rock Lookout has stood sentinel over these ancient forests, its vigilant occupants scanning the horizon for telltale wisps of smoke. Today, it remains one of the precious few surviving lookouts in the Tiller Ranger District—a living monument to the brave fire spotters who once spent months in solitude protecting Oregon's wilderness. Each weathered board and worn threshold tells stories of dedication, isolation, and the critical role these towers played in forest conservation.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings perfect conditions for lookout living, with warm days giving way to crisp, star-filled nights from August through mid-November. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest erupts in a symphony of golds, crimsons, and burnt oranges—a photographer's dream visible from every window. The lookout closes to visitors when winter's heavy snows arrive, protecting this historic structure from nature's weightiest blanket.
ElevationYour accommodations await at the edge of the world, where sheer cliffs plunge hundreds of feet into the forest below. This aerie position atop its rocky promontory creates an exhilarating sense of floating above the landscape—close enough to touch the sky, yet safely anchored to ancient stone. The dramatic elevation provides not just views, but a thrilling perspective that makes every moment feel extraordinary.
Natural Features and SceneryThe lookout crowns a landscape where nature showcases its finest artistry. Dense conifer forests stretch endlessly below, punctuated by emerald sub-alpine meadows that bloom with rainbow wildflowers each spring. Ancient volcanic formations and weathered sedimentary outcroppings create a geological wonderland, their unique shapes and textures telling stories millions of years in the making. This ever-changing canvas transforms with the seasons—from spring's delicate blooms to autumn's fiery display.
Geological RegionAcker Rock sits at the intersection of fire and time, where volcanic upheavals and patient erosion have sculpted the Umpqua National Forest into a masterpiece of stone and forest. The lookout's clifftop perch showcases this geological drama, with ancient lava flows visible alongside sedimentary layers that predate the dinosaurs. Below, conifer forests blanket the rugged terrain, while sub-alpine meadows nestle in protected pockets—creating a diverse ecosystem shaped by millions of years of Earth's restless creativity.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess requires a moderately steep 0.4-mile hike along a forested trail. High clearance and all-terrain vehicles are recommended for travel to the trailhead.
Sites SizeThe lodging area is compact, measuring 12-foot by 12-foot.
Sites PrivacyThe location offers significant privacy due to its remote, cliff-top setting.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPack light due to the steep hike. Bring cleaning supplies and earplugs for possible noise from logging.
Best CampsitesThe lookout is the only rentable site, offering privacy and unmatched views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Arrival time not specified, but gate access is contingent upon reservation confirmation.
Check-out
Departure time not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stays of 3 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of 4 people.
Groups
No group sites are available, as the maximum capacity of the lookout is four people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne-room lookout furnished with propane amenities, a single bed, and composting toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from August 1 through November 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, through the mobile app, or in-person at applicable locations.
Walk-in AvailabilityVehicle access past the locked road gate is permitted only with reservations. Non-reservation holders may hike to the lookout from the gate.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made early incur a $10 fee and may subtract the first night's use fee if canceled after specified windows. Late cancellations for cabins/lookouts occur less than 14 days before check-in.
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.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Acker Rock Lookout offers panoramic views, hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Seasonal changes enhance the recreational experience with spring flowers and vivid autumn colors.
Hiking
Over 100 miles of trails in the Rogue Umpqua Divide wilderness are accessible nearby. User reviews recommend packing light for the moderately steep hike to the lookout.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available within 10 miles of the lookout.Wildlife viewing
The lookout is a delightful setting for wildlife viewing and birding. Seasonal changes offer varied opportunities for observing nature.Winter Activities
Snowmelt and winter conditions make the site inaccessible for reservations during colder months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No campfires allowed at the facility. Guests must adhere to 'Don't Move Firewood' policies to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep cliffs surrounding the lookout pose a falling hazard. Wildlife presence may require caution. Logging operations nearby may generate noise.
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.3 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
Closest emergency services include the Tiller Ranger Station (45-minute drive) for potable water and general inquiries. Emergency medical facilities are accessible in Canyonville.
Good to know
Peak season datesAugust 1 to November 15.
Trash and recyclingVisitors must pack out all trash and refrain from leaving perishable items in the refrigerator. Trash left out can attract rodents and other animals. A transfer station nearby charges $3 per can (up to 35 gallons) and is open only on Wednesdays.
Proximity to water featuresOverlooking the Umpqua River and tributaries. Fishing opportunities within 10 miles.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby logging operations and challenges with the gate lock.
Campground Map
27812 Tiller Trail Hwy, Tiller, OR, 97484, USA
Driving directionsFrom Canyonville take West 1st Street and turn onto SE 3rd St/OR-227. Follow OR-227 approximately 23 miles until you reach Tiller. From Tiller, travel northeast on Douglas County Road #46 which becomes South Umpqua/Forest Service Road #28, for 18.5 miles to Buckeye Creek/Forest Service Road #29. Follow Forest Service Road #29 for 7 miles to the junction with Forest Service Road #2838. Turn left (north) onto Forest Service Road #2838 for 1.5 miles to the Forest Service Road #2838-950. Follow Forest Service Road #2838-950 for 1.5 miles to the trailhead. The Acker Rock Trail #1585 is 0.4 mile and requires a moderate to steep hike to reach the lookout.
High clearance all-terrain vehicles are recommended for travel to this site due to the rugged road conditions. The final access includes a locked gate, requiring a reservation to access by vehicle. Non-reservation holders may hike from the gate to the lookout.Nearby places
Tiller (approximately 45-minute drive), Canyonville (approximately 23 miles), Buckeye Creek (approximately 25 miles).
Nearby supplies
Potable water is available at the Tiller Ranger Station. Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel facilities are located in Canyonville, approximately 23 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Acker Rock Lookout has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews praise the lookout for its spectacular views, engineering marvel, and comfortable amenities. However, some note noise from nearby logging operations and challenges with the gate lock.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights include panoramic views, a comfortable bed (described as between a Queen and full size), and a well-equipped facility with propane-powered appliances. User Brenna L states, 'One night is...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues mentioned include difficulty with the gate lock and noise from nearby logging operations that persisted all night.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
User Kelly B advises packing light for the hike and bringing earplugs for potential noise disturbances. Brenna L suggests bringing a full complement of kitchen supplies and staying for more than one...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The lookout is accessible only during specific months (August 1–November 15), offering optimal conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing, but it is closed during winter due to snow and wind...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'One night is NOT enough!' - Brenna L
2. 'The most amazing 360 degree view! It does get very hot though. Hike in is not awful but pack light!' - Kelly B
3. 'This lookout is amazing!! An...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to the Acker Rock Lookout note its panoramic views, comfortable facilities, and engineering marvel.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
User reviews highlight the moderately steep hike required to access the lookout, suggesting the location is not easily accessible to individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users are advised not to let them roam freely as this may endanger wildlife and vegetation.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025