How much does camping cost at Mccart Lookout?

Camping fees at Mccart Lookout range from $30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mccart Lookout first-come first-served or reservation?

Mccart 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 Mccart Lookout before I book?

Yes! Mccart Lookout has 23 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 Mccart Lookout?

Mccart Lookout is open June 11 to September 16. 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 Mccart Lookout?

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

Can I have a campfire at Mccart Lookout?

Fire policies at Mccart 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 Mccart Lookout have?

Mccart 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 Mccart Lookout?

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

What amenities are available at Mccart Lookout?

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

What activities can I do at Mccart Lookout?

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

Mccart Lookout

5 reviews

7338 HWY .93 S.

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Tent Camping Montana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,115 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Check in time is 2:0...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Darby-Sula Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,115 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Check in time is 2:0...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Darby-Sula Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Mccart Lookout

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$30.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-821-3913

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Mccart Lookout

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Campground Map

7338 HWY .93 S.

Mccart Lookout

7338 HWY .93 S.

Nearby places

Missoula, Montana (90 miles south)

Sula, Montana (15 miles east from Highway 472 intersection)

Lost Trail Hot Springs (13 miles northwest)

Weather at Mccart Lookout

Current alerts(13)

All garbage and food must be packed out. Please bring garbage bags.
Bring propane canisters for stove and lantern.
Bring your own bedding.
Check in time is 2:00 PM ; Check out time is 12:00 PM

Best Time to Camp at Mccart Lookout

Best season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, warmest weather and full access to the restored 1940s lookout (site open for reservations June 7–September 20). Daytime highs at 7,115 ft typically range from the mid-60s to low-70s°F with cool nights in the 30s–40s, making it ideal for long hikes, wildlife viewing, and overnight stays in the tower. Crowds are modest compared with low-elevation parks but expect the busiest weeks in July and early August; be aware of wildfire season and occasional smoke that can affect Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open Jun 7–Sep 20; summer temps ideal and most reviews focus on summer visits and views.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 11 to September 16. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Check in time is 2:00 PM ; Check out time is 12:00 PM

About Mccart Lookout

Mccart Lookout sits at 7,115 feet in Bitterroot National Forest, a restored 1940s fire tower managed by the Darby-Sula Ranger District near Sula. The cabin rental offers panoramic views and access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, attracting hikers and wildlife watchers who prize solitude over modern amenities. Summer brings mid-60s to low-70s days and cool nights, with the tower open for reservations from early June through mid-September.

McCart Lookout offers a unique camping experience with options for staying in the restored L4 lookout tower and tent camping in the surrounding area.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, warmest weather and full access to the restored 1940s lookout (site open for reservations June 7–September 20). Daytime highs at 7,115 ft typically range from the mid-60s to low-70s°F with cool nights in the 30s–40s, making it ideal for long hikes, wildlife viewing, and overnight stays in the tower. Crowds are modest compared with low-elevation parks but expect the busiest weeks in July and early August; be aware of wildfire season and occasional smoke that can affect Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation7115 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe lookout perches on the eastern edge of the Bitterroot Valley at the gateway to the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness. From the tower, visitors see the sharp peaks of the Bitterroots to the west and the rounded summits of the Pintlers to the east. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail passes nearby. Mule deer, elk, black bears, and occasionally mountain lions move through the surrounding backcountry. The elevation provides expansive views across forested valleys and ridge lines.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground offers a restored L4 lookout tower as lodging. It features a 14x14 ft cabin on a 10-foot tall tower with narrow steps and a catwalk, posing challenges for children and pets. Bedding and basic amenities need to be brought by guests.

Programs & ActivitiesGuests can explore the historical significance of the restored 1940s lookout tower and its connection to early homesteading in the region. A lookout journal provides instructions for emergencies.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The lookout cabin accommodates up to 4 guests. Additional visitors can camp in tents nearby.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe lookout tower is accessed via a 1.5-mile moderate hike, which may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues. The narrow steps and catwalk may further limit accessibility.

Site SizeThe lookout cabin is compact, measuring 14x14 feet, with a catwalk around its perimeter.

PrivacyThe campground offers a secluded setting on McCart Peak, providing privacy amidst wilderness.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesUsers recommend barricading the cabin door to prevent rodent intrusion. Guests should pack out trash to avoid contributing to wildlife scavenging.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site: the lookout cabin itself. The 14x14-foot tower has a narrow staircase and catwalk. Tent camping is permitted near the structure for those who prefer not to sleep in the tower.

Need help booking Mccart Lookout?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

There is no water available near the lookout so please bring your own water . An outdoor toilet serves the lookout. You will need to provide your own toilet paper .

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

McCart Lookout provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, horseback riding, and scenic exploration. The facility is situated near the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, making it suitable for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our 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

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

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

5 reviews

Limited Reviews

Mccart Lookout has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews of McCart Lookout highlight the scenic beauty and unique experience of staying in a historic tower amidst wilderness. However, concerns about maintenance of the outdoor toilet and rodent issues detract from its appeal for some visitors.

Review Summaries

Based on 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciate the scenic views, the rustic charm of the restored 1940s lookout tower, and the proximity to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. A reviewer stated, "Awesome as always at...

Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

Users have raised concerns about cleanliness and maintenance, particularly regarding the outdoor toilet. One reviewer pointed out, "The outhouse is spilling human waste down the hillside," while...

Based on 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight the scenic location and unique accommodations but criticize the outdoor toilet's maintenance. For example, "Appreciated that it looks like they fixed the front boards...

Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests should bring their own bedding, towels, propane canisters, toilet paper, garbage bags, and drinking water due to the minimal facilities provided. Safety precautions should be taken regarding...

Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews predominantly focus on the summer season when the lookout is accessible. Positive experiences center around the views and hiking opportunities, whereas complaints are more commonly related to...

Based on 5 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice old lookout tower that you can rent out to stay in overnight. Spots fill up fast though." - Michael Daugherty "If you don’t sufficiently barricade the door, you will be visited at midnight by...

Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

The moderate hike and lookout tower stairs are noted as potential challenges for individuals with mobility limitations.

Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets may face challenges due to the narrow steps and catwalk of the lookout tower. No specific policies about pets are mentioned in the reviews.

Based on 5 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a historic tower experience near the Continental Divide and can handle primitive conditions and wildlife-proofing chores.

Skip if

You need reliable sanitation, rodent-free lodging, or amenities beyond vault toilets and scenic isolation.

Nearby Campgrounds

7338 HWY. 93 S., SULA, MT, USA, 59871

East Fork Cabin sits in mid-elevation forest within Bitterroot National Forest near Sula, Montana, operated by the Darby-Sula Ranger District. This single rental cabin comes well-stocked with firewood and kitchen essentials, offering a rustic base for hiking and fishing during seasonal months. Reviewers praise the cabin's condition and scenic surroundings, though mice are common and winter access requires snow travel preparation.

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