Clear Lake Cabin Lookout
4.2119 reviewsClear Lake Cabin 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
Peak season rate of $85. Fees contribute to the maintenance and preservation of the lookout.
About this campground
Perched atop a 40-foot tower on Clear Lake Butte, this remote cabin lookout beckons adventurers seeking true solitude in Oregon's winter wilderness. Your journey here demands commitment—a strenuous trek through snow-laden trails accessible only by snowshoe, skis, or snowmobile leads to your elevated sanctuary. Once you've conquered the ascent, you're rewarded with an off-grid retreat where panoramic vistas stretch endlessly across Mt. Hood's pristine snowscape. Days unfold with possibilities: cast a line into crystal waters, explore hidden trails, spot elusive wildlife, or carve fresh tracks through untouched powder. This winter-only escape transforms the hardy soul who seeks it into a temporary guardian of the forest, living where eagles soar.
Clear Lake Cabin Lookout is a non-electric cabin accommodation atop a 40-foot tower, providing a secluded and unique camping experience.
Historical SignificanceRising from the mountainside since 1932, Clear Lake Cabin Lookout stands as a testament to the Forest Service's enduring mission to protect Oregon's wilderness. Originally soaring 100 feet into the sky, this sentinel was thoughtfully reduced to its current 40-foot height in 1962, creating a more intimate connection with the surrounding forest canopy. During summer months, trained spotters still scan the horizon from this historic perch, maintaining an unbroken tradition of fire detection that has safeguarded these forests for over nine decades. Each weathered board and wind-worn railing tells stories of countless storms weathered and fires prevented, making your stay a continuation of this vital conservation legacy.
Weather and SeasonsWinter reigns supreme at Clear Lake Cabin Lookout, transforming the landscape into a crystalline wonderland that demands respect and preparation. Snow blankets the trails from late fall through spring, while storms sweep across the mountainside with little warning, bringing fresh powder and testing winds. Temperatures plunge well below freezing, creating a world where icicles frame your windows and frost paints intricate patterns on the glass. This is nature at its most dramatic—where blizzards can erase the horizon one moment, then part to reveal breathtaking alpine clarity the next. Only those prepared for extreme winter conditions should venture here, but those who do discover the raw beauty of Oregon's high country in its most magnificent season.
ElevationAt 4,454 feet above sea level, Clear Lake Butte positions you in the sweet spot of Oregon's high country—high enough to command sweeping views across multiple mountain ranges, yet accessible enough for determined winter adventurers. This elevation places you above the typical cloud line, often resulting in spectacular scenes where you gaze down upon a sea of clouds while basking in brilliant sunshine. The thin, crisp air at this altitude sharpens every sensation, from the crunch of snow beneath your feet to the stunning clarity of stars that seem close enough to touch on clear winter nights.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your 40-foot aerie, the Cascade Mountains reveal themselves in breathtaking layers of beauty. Gaze north to witness Mt. Hood's majestic summit piercing the sky at 11,239 feet—Oregon's crown jewel draped in perpetual snow. Below, Clear Lake and Timothy Lake rest like scattered sapphires among dense stands of Douglas fir and noble fir, their surfaces transformed to mirrors of ice in winter's grip. The surrounding forest creates an ever-changing tapestry: morning mist rising through snow-laden branches, afternoon sun setting fire to frost-covered needles, and evening alpenglow painting the peaks in shades of rose and gold. Wildlife tracks crisscross the snow around the tower's base, evidence of the deer, snowshoe hares, and occasional cougar that call these rugged slopes home.
Geological RegionNestled on the southern slope of Mt. Hood within the volcanic heart of the Cascade Range, Clear Lake Butte showcases the dramatic geological forces that shaped the Pacific Northwest. This ancient landscape tells a story written in lava flows and glacial valleys, where volcanic peaks thrust skyward from forests that have reclaimed once-barren pumice plains. Alpine lakes fill depressions carved by long-vanished glaciers, while stands of hardy fir trees grip slopes built from successive eruptions. The rugged terrain surrounding the lookout—a mixture of volcanic rubble, glacier-polished bedrock, and steep ridgelines—creates the perfect playground for those who appreciate nature's raw, sculptural power. Here, at the intersection of fire and ice, the Cascades reveal their timeless drama.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess requires skiing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing approximately 3.5 miles with a 900-foot elevation climb. "Be prepared for extreme winter weather conditions; guests should be experienced in back-country travel and survival skills."
Sites SizeThe cabin itself is 14 by 14 feet, perched atop a 40-foot tower.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers significant privacy due to its elevated location, but visitors have occasionally noted interruptions from snowmobilers and other explorers.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend bringing additional cleaning supplies, towels for wet spots, and a sponge for water pans. Snow sledges for gear, dry shoes, and health-conscious cookware usage suggested.
Best CampsitesSingle site cabin atop the lookout offering 360-degree views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
11 AM
Stay Limit
Seven consecutive nights per visit
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin atop a 40-foot tower with wooden catwalk surrounding the structure.
Open and Closed SeasonAvailable during winter months, from November 1 to May 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot allowed; reservations are required for this facility.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before a stay) result in forfeiture of the first night’s recreation use fee. Early departures may not receive refunds.
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
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Clear Lake Cabin Lookout offers a range of winter sports activities including skiing, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Fishing is available, though many lakes and streams may be frozen during winter. Wildlife viewing is also a popular activity in this natural area.
Hiking
Guests can hike to the cabin in winter conditions. Trails are often snow-covered, and may require snowshoes or skins. "Hike in isn't bad on snow shoes or skins."Fishing
Fishing opportunities exist in nearby mountain lakes and streams, although many may be frozen during winter months.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area is rich with wildlife, and the elevated view provides opportunities for birding and spotting various species. "A variety of wildlife make its home in the area."Winter Activities
Popular winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and enjoying the snowy vistas. Guests often note the importance of being prepared for extreme winter conditions.Water Sports
No information available regarding water sports.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is provided for indoor use only. Guests must protect forests by avoiding invasive species; information available at DontMoveFirewood.org.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include slippery steps and catwalks, the swaying tower during winds, and proximity of indoor wood storage to the stove (user concern). Back-country travel risks such as extreme weather, frozen gear pulleys, and snow clearing for bathroom and woodshed access are noted.
Active alertsRoad closures during winter months; guests must trek 3.5 miles under harsh conditions. Lock issues reported for lookout and woodshed.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.6 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 (541-467-2291) or Hood River Ranger District office (541-352-6002). Neither emergency services nor hospitals are specifically listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember 1 to December 31 (2025 scheduling details provided).
Trash and recyclingTrash bags are not supplied, and guests are required to pack out all trash. "Egg shells and food scraps do not make good kindling. People should be better about packing out their own trash."
Proximity to water featuresOverlooks Clear Lake and Timothy Lake. No on-site water source; guests must bring all drinking water.
Common complaintsComplaints include dirty conditions upon entry; difficulties obtaining the combination code for access; excessive visitors interrupting privacy. User dissatisfaction with frozen gear rope pulley and proximity of wood storage to the stove.
HostThis site is unstaffed; issues must be directed to the Barlow Ranger District (541-467-2291).
Campground Map
Driving directionsAccess begins at the junction of Highway 26 and Forest Service Road 42, 12 miles south of Government Camp, Oregon, at the Skyline Sno-Park. Guests must park at the Sno-Park and ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile to the facility. From the parking area, proceed on Forest Service Road 42 to the 240 spur road and continue to the lookout, approximately 3.2 miles with an elevation climb of 900 feet. It is a good path for moderate skiers and will take three-and-a-half to four hours to complete. Maps are available online or for purchase by calling the Barlow Ranger District.
Winter access road closures apply from 12/1 to 4/30. Access during these months requires skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling over 3.5 miles from Skyline Sno-Park. A Sno-Park permit is necessary to park.Nearby places
Government Camp (12 miles, approximately 25-minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Local supply locations include CJ's on Highway 26, west of the intersection of Highway 26 and Forest Service Road 42.
Camper Reviews
4.2
19 reviews
Clear Lake Cabin Lookout is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning views, cozy cabin ambiance, and challenging but rewarding winter access. "Love this place so beautiful up there and if you happen to get up there on cloudless day man the view is breathtaking." However, concerns about cleanliness, maintenance, and access code issues are mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests consistently praise the stunning mountain views, well-stocked firewood, and overall unique experience of staying in the lookout. "Wonderful stormy weekend up at the lookout! The cabin was...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include the lack of cleanliness upon arrival, difficulty obtaining the access code from the ranger station, and occasional interruptions by visitors. "The cabin was beautiful but very...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing plenty of bottled water, disinfecting wipes, clean sponges, and backup gear for winter travel. "Bring extra towel or something like to clean/dry up wet spots on the floor....
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visits are highly recommended for the snow-covered vistas and cozy ambiance, though guests note the importance of preparedness. "Winter adventures require knowing your limitations and being...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"My stay was good. However, I noticed that the inside wood storage was too close to the wood stove - the ends of wood were getting so hot that I had to move it elsewhere." "Be ready to shovel heaps...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews for the cabin highlight its cleanliness, well-stocked firewood, and stunning views, but also note issues with the access code and visitor interruptions. "Had a great time."...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Guests emphasize the physical challenge of reaching the lookout, requiring snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling, and note the importance of proper backcountry preparation. "Make sure to bring all the...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025