Thompson Peak Lookout Tower

Star4.91
52 reviews
P.O. BOX 460, SUPERIOR, MT 59872, USA
Romantic GetawayScenic ViewsStargazing

Quick Facts

4,534 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from May 20 to ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

No Pets

Electric

Opens Superior Ranger District site

Official Website
Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Thompson Peak Lookout Tower
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Nightly rate for the cabin during peak season is $75. This does not include reservation fees, taxes, or discounts.
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

Get Notified When Available

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

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
406-822-4233
Help improve this page
See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.91

Top-Rated

Based on 52 reviews

14 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanwell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight the stunning views, modern amenities, and peaceful atmosphere. Common praises include the availability of electricity and cell phone service, as well as the lookout's cleanliness."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

P.O. BOX 460, SUPERIOR, MT 59872, USA

Thompson Peak Lookout Tower

P.O. BOX 460, SUPERIOR, MT 59872, USA

Driving directionsFrom Missoula, Montana, travel west on I-90 for about 55 miles to Exit 47 for Superior. Turn left at the stop sign. At the next stop sign turn left and proceed under the interstate. Turn left onto Diamond Match Road, towards the Exxon Gas Station, and continue just over a mile, then turn right onto Forest Service Road 320. Drive for about 3 miles and then turn right onto Forest Service Road 7863 and travel just over 6 miles to the lookout. Maps are available online or for purchase by calling the Superior Ranger District at 406-822-4233.
The facility is accessible by vehicle from May 20 to October 10, with the road being described as well-signed. The 6-mile drive on Forest Service roads can be challenging due to sharp shale rock, as noted in reviews. "Follow directions supplied by the Forest Service. Both our Garmin GPS and Google Maps sent us a little west and wanted to take us up a road that did not exist."
Nearby places
Superior: approximately 6 miles, Missoula: approximately 55 miles.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies can be procured in Superior, MT, approximately 6 miles away, which has amenities like an Exxon Gas Station.

Best Time to Camp at Thompson Peak Lookout Tower

Summer brings gentle mountain breezes and crystal-clear days perfect for spotting wildlife and exploring nearby trails, though afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with dramatic displays of nature's power. Black bears and grizzlies are active during warm months, adding an element of wilderness authenticity to your stay. As one recent visitor noted, 'Didn't see any wildlife but maybe next time!' – a reminder that nature operates on its own schedule. Winter transforms the lookout into a snow-globe sanctuary, with weekly snowfalls exceeding 3 inches creating a pristine wonderland that requires preparation and proper gear for access.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
5.0 / 5
Top 4% in MT

Summer: 'gentle breezes', clear days, prime season and most popular per seasonal notes.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Open into October with strong views; fewer reviews but fall colors likely rewarding.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 10% in MT

Spring notes mention wildflowers and good views, but open season starts May 20 limiting spring access.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Site closed outside May 20–Oct 10; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 8 to October 5.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from May 20 to October 10. Closed the remainder of the year.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal wildfire warnings may occur, as reported in one user review: "We had to be evacuated due to a wildfire caused by lightning."

About Thompson Peak Lookout Tower

Perched high above the Clark Fork Valley, Thompson Peak Lookout Tower transforms camping into an extraordinary adventure where you'll sleep among the clouds and wake to endless Montana horizons. This lovingly modernized fire lookout offers 360-degree views that stretch from the charming town of Superior below to the distant mountain ranges that define Big Sky Country. Here, traditional camping meets elevated luxury as you experience life in an authentic Forest Service lookout that once stood guard against wildfires.
Thompson Peak Lookout Tower is a unique facility offering cabin accommodations rather than traditional camping options. It serves as a modernized lookout and provides electricity and other comforts.
Advertisement

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in time varies based on reservation, key code provided with confirmation.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM local time.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limit is 3 nights.

Amenities available

Electricity hookups
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Thompson Peak Lookout Tower provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and relaxation amidst stunning natural surroundings. The views of the Clark Fork Valley and the big sky of Montana are often highlighted as a key attraction.
HikingNumerous trails in the surrounding forest allow guests to explore the area's natural beauty. Some user reviews mention hikes leading to destinations such as Pearl Lake.
Wildlife viewingGuests frequently spot wildlife such as bears, birds, and chipmunks. The area is home to mountain goats, bighorn sheep, elk, moose, deer, and bears, as well as various bird species like eagles and trumpeter swans.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
Advertisement

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include bear activity, sharp shale rock on roads, and loud communication equipment operating on lower floors of the tower.
Active AlertsSeasonal wildfire warnings may occur, as reported in one user review: "We had to be evacuated due to a wildfire caused by lightning."
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Thompson Peak Lookout Tower

Reviews

4.9
52 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Thompson Peak Lookout Tower is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the stunning views, modern amenities, and peaceful atmosphere. Common praises include the availability of electricity and cell phone service, as well as the lookout's cleanliness.
Review Summaries
Based on 52 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciate the 360-degree window views, full-sized refrigerator, electricity, and modernized amenities like a microwave and a small cooking stove. The facility is often praised for its...
Show more
Based on 52 reviews

Common Concerns

Some guests report noise from the communications infrastructure on lower floors, as well as issues with the vault toilet odor and outdated design. Carrying supplies up the stairs can be challenging.
Based on 52 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests suggest bringing ropes and buckets to haul supplies upstairs, packing cleaning supplies, and being prepared for the vault toilet conditions. They advise following Forest Service directions...
Show more
Based on 52 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are the most popular time to visit due to favorable weather. The facility is closed during winter, limiting access for off-season recreation.
Based on 52 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "A great rental with electric power and great cell service thanks to the telecommunications infrastructure on site." - Donald Feltham - "Glamping in the clouds. Electricity, 2 burner stove,...
Show more
Based on 52 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews consistently mention Site 001, citing its cleanliness, amenities, and breathtaking views.
Based on 52 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility features such as enclosed stairways are noted to be family-friendly, but no specific accommodations for individuals with disabilities are mentioned.
Based on 52 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are prohibited at this facility, which is explicitly stated in the rules.
Based on 52 reviews

0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Thompson Peak Lookout Tower? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.


Last updated January 13, 2026
Advertisement

Nearby Campgrounds

Campgrounds you may also like

Popular campgrounds in Montana

Campgrounds
Lolo National Forest
Thompson Peak Lookout Tower