Big Hole Lookout (Mt)
4.908 reviewsPO Box 429, Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District, 408 Clayton Street, Plains, MT 59859
Big Hole Lookout (Mt)
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly fee for reserving the lookout is $45 during peak season (June 10 - October 14). Additional reservation service fees apply.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider406-826-3821
About this campground
Perched high above the wilderness, Big Hole Lookout invites adventurous souls to step back in time and experience life as a fire watcher once did. This authentic Forest Service lookout, welcoming guests from June through October, rewards those who make the scenic 3-mile journey by foot, horseback, or mountain bike with an unforgettable backcountry retreat. From your eagle's nest accommodation, witness breathtaking 360-degree panoramas where mountain ranges stretch endlessly into the horizon and valleys unfold like nature's own tapestry below.
Big Hole Lookout is suitable for small groups, offering an authentic backcountry experience in a historic Forest Service lookout.
Historical SignificanceStanding sentinel since 1930, Big Hole Lookout tells the story of America's early conservation efforts and the brave individuals who watched over these forests. This architectural treasure, recognized as eligible for the National Register of Historic Places since 1984, served as a crucial fire detection post until 1972. Today, it stands as a living museum where visitors can touch history, sleeping where generations of fire watchers once kept their vigilant watch over the wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsAt this lofty elevation, Mother Nature plays by her own rules. While valleys below bask in warm sunshine, the lookout often finds itself wrapped in cool mists and mountain breezes. Afternoon thunderstorms can roll in without warning, painting dramatic skies and reminding visitors why this outpost was so vital for spotting distant fires. Pack layers and rain gear—the mountain's moods change as quickly as the clouds that dance across its peaks.
ElevationFrom your sky-high perch, the world transforms into something magical. The thin mountain air carries a crispness that awakens the senses, while temperatures drop delightfully compared to the valleys far below. Here, where eagles soar at eye level and clouds occasionally drift through your front door, you'll understand why lookout keepers cherished their solitary posts despite the isolation.
Natural Features and SceneryBig Hole Lookout stands as one of only two surviving Grange Hall-type lookouts in the entire Lolo National Forest—a architectural gem crowning the wilderness. Your wildlife neighbors include majestic mountain goats navigating impossible cliffs, bugling elk in autumn meadows, and both grizzly and black bears foraging in the forests below. Golden and bald eagles ride the thermals past your windows, while lucky visitors might spot trumpeter swans gliding across distant alpine lakes.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast 2-million-acre tapestry of the Lolo National Forest, the lookout serves as your gateway to a wilderness wonderland. This incredible ecosystem encompasses four pristine wilderness areas where ancient forests shelter an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from sure-footed bighorn sheep and towering moose to elusive mountain lions and curious black bears. It's a landscape where geological time is written in weathered peaks and carved valleys, telling stories millions of years in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe facility is accessible only by a 3-mile trail, which can be traversed by foot, bicycle, or horse. The trail has a gradual incline with some steep sections.
Sites SizeThe lookout is a 14-by-14 structure that accommodates up to four people. Additional space is available outside the tower for tents or stock animals.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers solitude and a secluded experience, as noted by several user reviews praising its tranquil atmosphere.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe lookout accommodates up to four people and offers a unique backcountry experience. Visitors should bring adequate gear, including water filters for the non-potable spring.
Best CampsitesThe Big Hole Lookout site is the sole campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time details are not explicitly provided.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 3 nights per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to four people can be accommodated within the lookout structure.
Groups
- There are no designated group sites
- the lookout supports up to four people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle site featuring a historic lookout structure with space outside for tents and stock animals.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from June 10 to October 14.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe lookout is not available for walk-up camping; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, along with forfeiture of the first night's fee if canceled less than 14 days before arrival. Late cancellations or no-shows result in additional penalties, such as forfeiting the entire amount paid for one-night reservations.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
"Big Hole Lookout has an amazing 360-degree view of several mountain peaks and ranges," making it a prime location for various recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing. The area features several non-motorized trails and is rich in natural and cultural history.
Hiking
The campground is accessible via a 3-mile trail with a gradual incline and some steep sections. "The trail was easy to find and the solitude was worth the climb," noted one reviewer. Other trails also link to the site, offering more opportunities for exploration.Biking
The 3-mile trail leading to the lookout is open to bicycles, and additional non-motorized trails are available for exploration.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to various wildlife, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, deer, and bears. "We saw a bear while hiking down to the spring," shared one visitor. The site is also frequented by bald and golden eagles.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned; the site is open from June to October.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not supported at the site.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood can be collected locally for use in the wood stove.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area has bear activity; visitors must practice bear safety. Additional hazards include steep trails and changing weather conditions.
Weather forecast
38
°F
Oct 8
Wednesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 38%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
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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 are located in Plains, MT.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 10 to October 14.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and waste to avoid attracting wildlife, including bears.
Proximity to water featuresA spring with non-potable water is located 3/4 mile downhill from the lookout; water must be filtered before use.
Common complaintsSome visitors mentioned issues with mice in the lookout and difficulty finding the spring due to incorrect directions.
Campground Map
PO Box 429, Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District, 408 Clayton Street, Plains, MT 59859
Driving directionsFrom Plains, Montana travel northwest on Highway 200 for approximately 7.5 miles to Weeksville Creek Road (FR 887). From Thompson Falls, Montana travel southeast on Highway 200 for approximately 17.5 miles to Weeksville Creek Road (FR 887). Turn north onto Weeksville Creek Road (FR 887) and travel approximately 3 miles to Big Hole Road (FR 5587) and turn left. Travel the Big Hole Road for approximately 17.5 miles to the Big Hole Trailhead.
The road to the trailhead is steep and winding, requiring careful navigation. Reviewers mentioned that the two-track road is manageable with a passenger car, but caution is advised due to the winding terrain.Nearby places
Plains, Montana is approximately 7.5 miles from Weeksville Creek Road
Thompson Falls, Montana is approximately 17.5 miles from Weeksville Creek Road.
Nearby supplies
Supplies are likely available in Plains, Montana (approximately 7.5 miles to Weeksville Creek Road). Specific stores or types of supplies are not mentioned explicitly.
Camper Reviews
4.9
8 reviews
Big Hole Lookout (Mt) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with visitors praising the site's cleanliness, breathtaking views, and well-maintained facilities. Many highlighted the site's solitude and historical significance.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
"The lookout was in fantastic shape and well-stocked," "The views are top notch all day," and "I can hardly wait to make the trip again!" Visitors also appreciated the ease of the trail and the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some visitors noted issues such as mice in the lookout and challenges in finding the spring due to inaccurate directions.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing a water filter for the spring, hanging a lamp from the ceiling hooks, and being 'bear aware.'
Based on 8 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer visitors frequently enjoyed wildlife viewing and huckleberry picking, while some reviews noted smoky skies affecting views in late summer.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "We took our granddaughters 8 & 10 into Big Hole Lookout, we all very much enjoyed our time there. Very clean, well stocked and maintained!"
2. "The views are spectacular. The area is loaded with...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The lookout itself receives consistent 5-star reviews, with visitors emphasizing its cleanliness, amenities, and remarkable views. The trailhead also offers ample parking and is well-marked.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
The 3-mile trail to the lookout is described as manageable, with a gradual incline, but may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues. There is no vehicular access to the site.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and some visitors brought dogs, including small breeds, up the trail successfully.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025