Green Ridge Lookout

Star4.75
11 reviews
P.O. Box 249, Sisters, OR 97759, USA
Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Quick Facts

4,626 ft

Price

$40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open seasons include...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Opens Sisters 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
Green Ridge Lookout
$40.00 - $40.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peak season rental of Green Ridge Lookout is $40 per night (April 24 - June 26, 2025 and September 14 - November 17, 2025). No booking is available...
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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

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Provider
(541) 549-7700
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What Campers Say

4.75

Top-Rated

Based on 11 reviews

Most mentioned

views

Some mention

cell service

"User reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences, with many praising the lookout’s views and solitude but noting the lack of running water and utensils. "One of the most beautiful places in the world," wrote Carnot James T, while Jake commented, "Mountains were overrated. Don't bother.""

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Campground Map

P.O. Box 249, Sisters, OR 97759, USA

Green Ridge Lookout

P.O. Box 249, Sisters, OR 97759, USA

Driving directionsEntry to the lookout is by combination lock. Please call the Sisters Ranger District at (541) 549-7700 one week in advance to get the gate combination. From Sisters, travel 5.5 miles west on U.S. Highway 20 to Forest Road 11 at Indian Ford Campground. Turn right on Forest Road 11 and travel approximately 10 miles to the end of pavement at the junction with Forest Road 1150. Take the left fork of Forest Road 1150, to the junction with Forest Road 1154. Turn left on Forest Road 1154 and continue to Forest Road 1140. Turn left on Forest Road 1140 and continue a short distance to spur road 600. Take a very sharp right on spur road 600, and travel approximately 0.5 miles on the spur road to the parking area for Green Ridge Lookout. Early and late season travel may require high clearance four-wheel drive vehicles. If snow blocks access to the facility during the early season, opening may be delayed.
Early and late season travel may require high clearance four-wheel drive vehicles due to snow potentially blocking access. The final approach involves a sharp turn onto a spur road, which may challenge larger vehicles.
Nearby places
Sisters: 15 miles (approximately 25 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are in Sisters, OR, approximately 15 miles away, with grocery stores and outdoor supply retailers available.

Best Time to Camp at Green Ridge Lookout

Each season paints a different masterpiece at Green Ridge. Winter transforms the lookout into a snow-globe sanctuary, where crystalline air and pristine white landscapes create a magical alpine experience—though brave souls should prepare for freezing temperatures and deep snow. Spring awakens the forest below with wildflower blooms and perfect camping weather, while autumn sets the surrounding forests ablaze with golden larches and crisp, clear days ideal for peak-bagging and stargazing. Note that summer months are reserved for the lookout's original purpose, when dedicated volunteer fire spotters keep watch over the forest.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
Not recommended

Site closed during mid-summer dates per season info; limited accessibility.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall listed as a peak season (Sept 14–Nov 17) and preferred for moderate temps and colors.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring is listed as a peak season (Apr 24–Jun 26); reviewers prefer spring for moderate temps and views.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Reviews praise snowy scenery but cold-weather prep and availability are concerns; access unclear.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: April 24 - June 26, 2025; September 14 - November 17, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open seasons include April 24 - June 26, 2025, and September 14 - November 17, 2025. Closed during mid-summer dates.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal closures due to snow or weather conditions may delay opening. Contact the Sisters Ranger District for updates.

About Green Ridge Lookout

Perched like an eagle's nest more than 2,000 feet above the winding Metolius River, Green Ridge Lookout invites adventurers to experience life in the clouds. This historic fire lookout cabin, transformed into a coveted wilderness retreat, commands breathtaking 360-degree views across the Deschutes National Forest. From your lofty vantage point, watch the sun paint Mount Jefferson's snowy flanks gold at dawn, while the vast Metolius River Basin unfolds below like a living map of Oregon's wild heart.
Green Ridge Lookout offers a unique fire lookout lodging experience, suitable for small groups or families seeking solitude in nature. The facility is ideal for cabin-based camping rather than traditional tents or RVs.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Guests may stay up to 3 nights per visit.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

Green Ridge Lookout offers a variety of activities suitable for outdoor enthusiasts, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. "Fishing and hiking top the list of recreational activities," according to authoritative text. User reviews have highlighted the picturesque surroundings and opportunities for relaxation.
HikingHiking trails are abundant, ranging from riverside trails to subalpine forests. "For day hikers and backpackers, the area offers a wide variety of scenic terrain," according to authoritative content. Popular hikes include routes along the Metolius River and to the top of Black Butte.
FishingThe Metolius River offers fly-fishing opportunities with species such as rainbow trout, whitefish, bull trout, and kokanee salmon. User reviews noted the relaxing atmosphere for anglers.
BikingMountain biking opportunities are available along forest roads and trails around the area.
BoatingLake Billy Chinook, located approximately 10 miles away, offers boating opportunities.
Wildlife viewingGuests can enjoy views of diverse wildlife species within the dense forests surrounding the lookout. "Such a peaceful, picturesque place," wrote Renee Stelle in her review.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include limited cell service, no potable water, and challenging road access, especially during early and late seasons.
Active AlertsSeasonal closures due to snow or weather conditions may delay opening. Contact the Sisters Ranger District for updates.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Green Ridge Lookout

Reviews

4.8
11 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Green Ridge Lookout is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight a mix of positive and negative experiences, with many praising the lookout’s views and solitude but noting the lack of running water and utensils. "One of the most beautiful places in the world," wrote Carnot James T, while Jake commented, "Mountains were overrated. Don't bother."
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers commonly praise the views, solitude, and amenities such as the propane stove and heater. "Fantastic trip! The weather was perfect and the lookout is in excellent condition," stated...
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Based on 11 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints primarily revolve around the lack of running water and kitchenware. "No pots/pans/plates/mugs/utensils up there," noted Angelique L. Jake critiqued the limited cell service and rugged...
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Based on 11 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend bringing specific items such as cookware, additional lighting, and plenty of water. "Please plan ahead and prepare to bring your own," advises the official guide.
Based on 11 reviews

Seasonal Insights

User sentiments about Green Ridge Lookout vary by season, with colder months requiring more preparation for the lack of water and warmth. Spring and fall are preferred for their moderate temperatures...
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Based on 11 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Such a peaceful, picturesque place to relax while enjoying the glorious mountain views," wrote Renee Stelle. "Come for the views and experience of sleeping in a Fire Tower!" shared Carnot James T....
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Based on 11 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The cabin is well-regarded by visitors. "For an lookout the access and accessibility is very good. This is one of the best lookouts I have stayed in," noted Bryony M.
Based on 11 reviews

Accessibility Features

Limited reviews address accessibility, but the location's remote setting and multi-level design may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 11 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed outside only, which may limit pet-friendly usage. "Pack out all food and garbage" is emphasized in the official source.
Based on 11 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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