How much does camping cost at Shorty Peak Lookout?

Camping fees at Shorty Peak Lookout are $45/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Shorty Peak Lookout first-come first-served or reservation?

Shorty Peak 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 Shorty Peak Lookout before I book?

Yes! Shorty Peak Lookout has 18 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 Shorty Peak Lookout?

Shorty Peak Lookout is open June 21 to October 05. 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 Shorty Peak Lookout?

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

Can I have a campfire at Shorty Peak Lookout?

Fire policies at Shorty Peak Lookout: Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Shorty Peak Lookout have?

Shorty Peak 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 Shorty Peak Lookout?

Pets are not allowed at Shorty Peak Lookout. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Shorty Peak Lookout?

Shorty Peak Lookout offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Shorty Peak Lookout?

Popular activities at Shorty Peak Lookout include Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Shorty Peak Lookout

4.69

30 reviews

6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA

Top 6% in IDSummer

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazing

Featured in:Primitive Camping Idaho

Quick Facts

6,401 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open June 21, 2025 -...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Idaho Panhandle National Forests Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,401 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open June 21, 2025 -...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Idaho Panhandle National Forests Official Website

Get Directions

Shorty Peak Lookout

$45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $45.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

208-267-5561

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA

Shorty Peak Lookout

6286 MAIN STREET, BONNERS FERRY, ID 83805, USA

Nearby places

Bonners Ferry: 50 miles (~1 hour, 20 minutes driving). Creston, BC (Canada): Visible at night but distance unspecified.

Driving directionsFrom the Bonners Ferry Ranger Station: Take Highway 95 north for 17 miles. Turn left onto Highway 1 and head north for 2 miles. Turn left onto Copeland Road and head west for 4 miles. Stay right at the T junction and continue north on Westside Road for 9 miles. Stay to the left around the switchback, onto Forest Road 281, then drive west for 8 miles. Turn right on Road 655 and drive west 1.5 miles. Stay right again at the switchback, heading east 1 mile on Rd 282. Go straight at the next junction, and continue northeast on Road 282 for 4 miles. Park at the trailhead on top of the saddle before the locked gate. Hike 2.5 miles up the trail to the west to reach the lookout.

Weather at Shorty Peak Lookout

Current alerts(7)

Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from area after eating
Bring bedding, cooking supplies, flashlights, etc.
Click here for more information on the Idaho Panhandle National Forests
Entry to the cabin is by combination lock; contact the ranger district at (208) 267-5561 for combination 5-10 days prior to visit

Best Time to Camp at Shorty Peak Lookout

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access to the Shorty Peak Lookout (open June 21–Oct 5) and the best weather for the steep 2.5-mile, 1,300-foot hike to the restored cabin. Expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights dipping into the mid-40s°F, long daylight for hiking, peak wildflower displays and excellent wildlife viewing. Weekends in July and August see the most visitors, but mid-week trips deliver solitude and crystal-clear panoramic views. Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 6% in ID

Best season; open June 21–Oct 5 and summer offers most reliable access and weather.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 21 to October 05. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open June 21, 2025 - October 5, 2025. Peak season matches these dates.

About Shorty Peak Lookout

Shorty Peak Lookout sits in the Idaho Panhandle National Forests near Bonners Ferry, offering a restored fire lookout cabin accessible via a steep 2.5-mile hike with 1,300 feet of elevation gain. Managed by Idaho Panhandle National Forests, this primitive rental provides 360-degree views and solitude for hikers willing to haul water and gear. Guests enjoy stargazing, wildlife viewing, and the novelty of staying in a working piece of forest history.

The Shorty Peak Lookout offers only a single cabin accommodation for guests seeking a unique, rustic experience. The site does not feature traditional campgrounds or RV facilities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access to the Shorty Peak Lookout (open June 21–Oct 5) and the best weather for the steep 2.5-mile, 1,300-foot hike to the restored cabin. Expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights dipping into the mid-40s°F, long daylight for hiking, peak wildflower displays and excellent wildlife viewing. Weekends in July and August see the most visitors, but mid-week trips deliver solitude and crystal-clear panoramic views. Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation6401 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin perches where the Selkirk and Purcell ranges converge, offering views across the Kootenai Valley and into Canada. On clear days you can pick out Red Top Mountain and Lone Tree Peak above forested ridges that roll toward three horizons. The Smith and Cow Creek drainages cut through the valleys below. Wildflowers peak in July and August along the trail. The nearest water source sits half a mile downhill at a spring. Wildlife sightings are common during summer mornings and evenings.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe site only offers the lookout cabin for lodging; no other accommodations such as lodges or cabins are available.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no cultural or educational programs offered at this site.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

7consecutive nights

Guests Allowed Per Site

Groups

There are no group sites
the cabin accommodates only two guests.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsRecreation.gov: website, mobile app, or call center.

AccessibilityAccess to the lookout requires a 2.5-mile hike with a 1,300-foot elevation gain, making it inaccessible to those with mobility challenges.

Site SizeThe cabin itself measures 15' x 15'. It is designed to accommodate two overnight guests.

PrivacyThe lookout offers complete seclusion with no other campsites nearby, providing a high level of privacy.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring sufficient water or prepare to hike to the spring (800 feet below). Carry sunglasses due to intense sunlight in mornings. Warm clothing recommended for chilly nights.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site: the cabin itself. Previous guests have left a few games and a guest book inside. The pit toilet sits within 100 yards but several reviews mention the smell carries on warm days.

Need help booking Shorty Peak Lookout?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Shorty Peak Lookout offers a rustic but well-maintained cabin facility designed for a unique outdoor experience. The cabin does not have running water, electricity, or heating, but it is equipped with two twin beds, mattresses, two tables, two chairs, a historic fire finder, and a district map. Guests should prepare to bring all essentials, including water and a first aid kit. The cabin sits atop a 5-foot foundation and is well-maintained with modern hardwood floors. A pit toilet is located 100 yards away from the cabin, but no other facilities such as fire pits, corrals for horses, or drinking water are on-site.

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Shorty Peak Lookout

Visitors to Shorty Peak Lookout can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, stargazing, and landscape photography. The cabin’s location and surrounding trails provide opportunities for an immersive nature experience.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Winter Activities

Water Sports

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.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.7

30 reviews

Top-Rated

Shorty Peak Lookout is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Shorty Peak Lookout receives overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average sentiment rating of 4.56. Visitors praise the cleanliness, seclusion, and breathtaking views. The hike to the lookout is described as challenging but rewarding.

Review Summaries

Based on 30 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests frequently mention the pristine condition of the lookout, the stunning 360-degree views, and the memorable stargazing opportunities. Many also appreciate the availability of small amenities...

Based on 30 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the steep hike, lack of nearby water sources, and the distance to the pit toilet. Mosquitoes are noted as a nuisance during the hike in summer months.

Based on 30 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 (Shorty Peak Lookout) is universally praised for its cleanliness, breathtaking views, and the unique experience it offers. Guests highlight the cabin's well-maintained condition and the...

Based on 30 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing plenty of water, bedding, and warm clothing for cooler nights. Sunglasses are advised for the intense morning sun. Flashlights and garbage bags are essential due to the...

Based on 30 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that summer and early fall are the most popular times to visit due to favorable weather. Late September can be chilly, and mosquito activity is high during midsummer hikes.

Based on 30 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The lookout is in great shape and clean!' - Mike B.\n2. 'We love staying at this lookout. You really feel isolated from the rest of the world.' - Janet P.\n3. 'The views from the lookout are...

Based on 30 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews do not mention accessibility accommodations, and the steep trail and elevation gain make the site inaccessible to those with limited mobility.

Based on 30 reviews