How much does camping cost at Pine Mountain Lookout?

Camping fees at Pine Mountain Lookout are $50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Pine Mountain Lookout first-come first-served or reservation?

Pine Mountain Lookout accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Pine Mountain Lookout before I book?

Yes! Pine Mountain Lookout has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Pine Mountain Lookout?

Pine Mountain Lookout is open April 24 to September 23. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Pine Mountain Lookout?

Pine Mountain Lookout does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at Pine Mountain Lookout?

Cell phone service at Pine Mountain Lookout is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Pine Mountain Lookout have?

Pine Mountain Lookout has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Pine Mountain Lookout?

Yes, pets are allowed at Pine Mountain Lookout. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Pine Mountain Lookout?

Pine Mountain Lookout offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Pine Mountain Lookout

Q: Can I have a campfire at Pine Mountain Lookout?

Fire policies at Pine Mountain Lookout: Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Firewood may be collected, and is encouraged, in the vicinity for use on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov. A permit is required if you want to take firewood home--contact the Upper Lake Ranger Station.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.72

22 reviews

10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485

Featured in:Fishing Camping California

Quick Facts

4,400 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May to Oct...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Mendocino National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,400 ft

Price

$50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May to Oct...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Mendocino National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Pine Mountain Lookout

$50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NON-ELECTRIC: $50.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

707-275-2361

I manage this campground

Ask Camp Sage about Pine Mountain Lookout

Availability, what to pack, similar spots — ask anything and get an instant answer.

Campground Map

10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485

Pine Mountain Lookout

10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485

Nearby places

Upper Lake (19 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car), Lake Pillsbury recreation area (7 miles, approximately 15-20 minutes by car).

Driving directionsFrom Potter Valley: Turn right on Eel River Road (North County Road 240B) and drive 4 miles to the Y intersection. Take the right hand fork of the Y, signed as Cutoff Road, and travel down the hill for about a half-mile. At the bottom of the hill proceed north on County Road 240B and cross the bridge to the north side of Eel River. Turn right towards Lake Pillsbury and proceed for 14 miles to the junction with M1 at the Soda Creek Store. Turn right (south) onto M1. At the junction of M1 and M8, proceed to the left (uphill, following the sign for Upper Lake) to stay on M1. After approx 6 miles, as indicated by the sign, turn right onto 18N05. After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along. From Upper Lake: Proceed north on M1/Elk Mountain Road past the Upper Lake Ranger Station. After several miles, as indicated by the sign, turn left onto 18N05. After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along.

Weather at Pine Mountain Lookout

Current alerts(10)

Click here for more information about Mendocino National Forest.
Fires are only allowed in the provided fire ring and pedestal grill unless prohibited by fire restrictions. All fires must be attended at all times and extinguished before retiring for the night as well as before leaving the site.
Forest roads 17N23 and 18N05 are considered suitable for high clearance vehicles only. This is especially true for wet winter and spring months, although during summer months passenger cars often have not trouble along the recommended route.
Group size is limited to no more than six people at a time. No overnight camping is permitted within the administrative site outside the rental lookout building.

Best Time to Camp at Pine Mountain Lookout

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable daytime temperatures, dramatic color from black oaks and madrone foliage, and low summer crowds—daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F with crisp nights dropping into the 30s–40s. Hiking, wildlife viewing (elk and deer rutting behavior), and photography are at their peak, and the lookout’s panoramic views are especially striking in clear autumn air. Expect fewer visitors on weekdays, but check for any fall hunting seasons and, Peak months: October, September, May, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Described as best season: comfortable temps, dramatic oak color and peak wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 24 to September 23. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May to October.

About Pine Mountain Lookout

Pine Mountain Lookout sits in Mendocino National Forest near Upper Lake, offering a historic fire lookout cabin for rent at mid-elevation. Operated by the Forest Service, this remote site attracts visitors seeking solitude and panoramic views across forested ridges. Fall brings peak conditions for wildlife viewing and photography as elk and deer rut and black oaks turn color.

Pine Mountain Lookout features unique accommodations in a historic fire lookout cabin. It is suited for small groups up to six people and offers a rustic camping experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable daytime temperatures, dramatic color from black oaks and madrone foliage, and low summer crowds—daytime highs typically range from the mid-50s to mid-70s °F with crisp nights dropping into the 30s–40s. Hiking, wildlife viewing (elk and deer rutting behavior), and photography are at their peak, and the lookout’s panoramic views are especially striking in clear autumn air. Expect fewer visitors on weekdays, but check for any fall hunting seasons and, Peak months: October, September, May, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation4400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe lookout crowns a peak where ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, madrones, and black oaks create a mixed forest environment shaped by the 4,400-foot elevation. Recent fires have thinned the canopy significantly. One visitor described the area as "quite burnt out with very little shade." Still, the panoramic mountain views deliver, especially at sunset when light washes across the ridgelines. Wildlife sightings include elk and deer, particularly during fall rutting season.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground offers a historic fire lookout cabin with partial 180-degree scenic views. The cabin includes bunk beds, cots, and basic furniture but lacks mattresses and bedding. "The lookout is like camping with a roof," commented one reviewer.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are offered.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

7consecutive nights maximum during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 6 guests allowed.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe vault toilet is ADA-accessible, and primary access routes are signed at major road junctions. However, the lookout cabin stairs lack a ramp, making interior accessibility limited.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six people, as per official guidelines.

PrivacyThe cabin provides solitude for guests, though proximity to logging operations and other campers has been noted: "The surrounding forest is quite burnt out with very little shade," remarked one visitor.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesCabin is best suited for small groups of up to six people. Bring all essential supplies, including bedding, flashlights, utensils, and firewood. Cots are basic; consider bringing an air mattress.

Need help booking Pine Mountain Lookout?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There is no water and electricity. Guests must bring their own water supply, as well as trash bags to pack out their trash. An outhouse with a vault toilet is a short distance away.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Pine Mountain Lookout

Guests at Pine Mountain Lookout can enjoy relaxing in a historic setting and soaking in panoramic views. Activities include hiking, hunting, floating, and fishing in nearby areas. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of bird species such as eagles, owls, hawks, and osprey, as well as mammals including black bears and mountain lions. "Magnificent views and solitude," one user emphasized. However, opportunities for hiking might be limited due to logging operations and burned areas.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Abundant sightings cited: elk, deer, eagles, owls, hawks, osprey, black bear; fall rutting noted.

Hiking3.0/5

Hiking trails are available nearby but access may be limited by logging operations and fire damage.

Water Sports2.0/5

Water floating mentioned on the Eel River; kayaking not explicitly described.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Remote historic lookout at 4,400 ft with solitude and panoramic views—good night skies likely.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Firewood may be collected, and is encouraged, in the vicinity for use on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov. A permit is required if you want to take firewood home--contact the Upper Lake Ranger Station.

Trash & RecyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided; guests are required to pack out their trash.

Cell CoverageCell service is attainable near the cabin and along some roads outside the gate, based on user reviews. "Cell service is attainable in the area of the cabin," wrote one visitor.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Pine Mountain Lookout

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.7

22 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Pine Mountain Lookout has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the stunning views from Pine Mountain Lookout, including sunsets and wildlife sightings, but also note drawbacks such as noise from logging operations, limited amenities, and poor road directions. "Beautiful views and unique historic cabin," said one reviewer, while another remarked, "The surrounding forest is quite burnt out with very little shade." Overall sentiment averages at 3.647 out of 5.

Review Summaries

Based on 22 reviews

What Campers Love

Magnificent views, solitude, clean vault toilet (in some cases), accessibility by car, wildlife viewing, and ample firewood supply.

Based on 22 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise from logging operations, poor road directions in official emails, lack of amenities (including no mattresses and bedding), unclean vault toilets, and potential safety concerns for solo...

Based on 22 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews specific to campsite 01 highlight varied experiences, such as rattlesnake sightings, noisy logging trucks, and wildlife encounters.

Based on 22 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring an air mattress and all necessary supplies, follow Google Maps directions instead of official emails, be cautious of rattlesnakes and logging trucks, plan activities beforehand due to limited...

Based on 22 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During summer, visitors reported high temperatures and limited shade, making daytime visits uncomfortable. Spring and early fall might offer better weather conditions and fewer logging operations.

Based on 22 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Magnificent views and solitude." - Duane B. "Bring an air mattress. The cots aren’t what I’d imagined." - Bonnie T. "Beautiful sunsets. Would definitely stay here again." - Jon W.

Based on 22 reviews