Steliko Lookout
4.3238 reviewsPO Box 476, Entiat, WA 98822
Quick Facts
2,586 ftPrice
$95/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
2,586 ftPrice
$95/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
Steliko Lookout
$95.00 - $95.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for the Steliko Lookout is $95. Additional service fees of $8 to $9 apply depending on booking method. Late cancellations may result...
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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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider509-860-4267contact@tread-cw.com
What Campers Say
4.32
Recommended
Based on 38 reviews
14 Google reviews
Most mentioned
viewsclean
"Overall, user reviews highlight the Steliko Lookout as a unique and memorable experience, characterized by stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a rustic yet well-equipped cabin. Some concerns were raised about the propane heater, occasional cleanliness issues, and the challenging access road."
Fees & Passes at Steliko Lookout
$95/night
Campsite fees
Stay Limit: Up to 14 nights per visit.
Cancellation: Changes require a $10 fee. Cancellations prior to arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the fir...
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Discover Entiat / TREAD website.
Best Time to Camp at Steliko Lookout
Each season paints Steliko Lookout with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms the access road into a challenging wonderland beneath up to four feet of snow, rewarding intrepid visitors with pristine solitude. Spring awakens the hillsides in vibrant yellows and purples as balsam root and lupine carpet the slopes. Summer nights bring balmy temperatures perfect for stargazing from your elevated perch, with crystal-clear skies stretching endlessly above.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1 to December 31 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round. Reservable start dates begin June 20, 2025.
About Steliko Lookout
Perched high above the Okanogan wilderness, Steliko Lookout invites adventurous souls to experience life in an authentic 1947 fire tower. This charming cabin-in-the-sky sleeps four comfortably and comes thoughtfully equipped with foam mattresses, a propane stove, refrigerator, and heater—everything you need for a cozy mountain retreat. By day, lose yourself in sweeping panoramic views; by night, witness a celestial show as countless stars illuminate the pristine darkness far from city lights.
The Steliko Lookout offers a unique camping experience in a fire lookout cabin. No tent, trailer, or RV sites are available.
Historical SignificanceFor nearly half a century, vigilant Forest Service personnel called this tower home, scanning the horizon for telltale wisps of smoke that could spell disaster for the surrounding wilderness. Though technology retired its daily watch duties in the 1990s, Steliko Lookout continues to stand sentinel as a crucial emergency observation point, its legacy of protection living on through every visitor who climbs its stairs.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Steliko Lookout with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms the access road into a challenging wonderland beneath up to four feet of snow, rewarding intrepid visitors with pristine solitude. Spring awakens the hillsides in vibrant yellows and purples as balsam root and lupine carpet the slopes. Summer nights bring balmy temperatures perfect for stargazing from your elevated perch, with crystal-clear skies stretching endlessly above.
ElevationAt 2,586 feet above sea level, Steliko Lookout offers the perfect elevation for comfort and views. High enough to deliver refreshingly cool mountain air and spectacular vistas, yet accessible enough for most adventurers to reach, this sweet spot provides an ideal escape from valley heat while keeping you connected to the dramatic landscape spreading out below.
Natural Features and ScenerySpring transforms the open hillsides surrounding Steliko into a photographer's dream, with golden balsam root and purple lupine creating nature's own impressionist masterpiece. Your panoramic theater includes starring roles by Tyee Mountain, the dramatic peaks of Stormy Mountain, and the rolling expanse of Waterville Plateau. Keep your camera ready—these slopes serve as crucial winter range for mule deer, who often make surprise appearances against the scenic backdrop.
Geological RegionRising from the heart of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest at 2,586 feet, Steliko Lookout occupies a privileged position where multiple mountain ranges converge. The surrounding landscape tells an ancient geological story through its peaks and plateaus—from the commanding presence of Tyee Mountain to the aptly named Stormy Mountain and the sweeping Waterville Plateau. In spring, the open hillsides burst with native balsam root and lupine, adding splashes of gold and purple to this elevated natural amphitheater.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe lookout is accessible by SUV or four-wheel-drive truck from mid-April to mid-November. During winter months, access requires walking, skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling the last 1.5 miles. The trail has steep grades and can accumulate up to 4+ feet of snow in winter, making it challenging for some visitors.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself is 16x16 feet and accommodates four people.
Sites PrivacyThe Steliko Lookout provides seclusion and solitude, offering expansive views and peace. However, nearby houses may be visible from the lookout, which slightly reduces the sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Bring warm thermals and a good sleeping bag," advised one user. Another recommended earplugs due to windy conditions.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 12:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 4 guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne cabin.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservable start dates begin June 20, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is stated.
Cancellation PolicyChanges require a $10 fee. Cancellations prior to arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for cancellations less than 14 days prior to arrival. Late cancellations are subject to stricter penalties.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Steliko Lookout offers a variety of recreational activities in its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, dirt biking, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Steliko Ridge Trail extends approximately four miles and is accessible to hikers, bikers, and horse riders. Stargazing is highly rated by visitors due to the lack of light pollution.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound, including the Steliko Ridge Trail, which extends four miles and is accessible to hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders. Other nearby trails include Silver Falls and Entiat Falls.Biking
Mountain biking and dirt biking are popular activities in the area, with the Steliko Ridge Trail catering to bikers of varying skill levels.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife, with mule deer commonly spotted. The open hillsides and winter range provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
During winter months, activities such as skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling are available to access the lookout and explore surrounding areas.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No campfires allowed.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include rattlesnakes, steep roads, and fall risks from the lookout deck. Winter conditions pose additional risks due to snow and ice.
Weather at Steliko Lookout
37
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
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Emergency Services
Entiat Ranger Station (contact at 509-860-4267), hospital facilities in Wenatchee (approximately 26 miles southeast).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 annually.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash as the campground follows a pack-it-out policy. A dumpster is available at the Entiat Ranger District for garbage disposal.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features nearby. Guests must bring their own water.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include malfunctioning propane heater and cleanliness issues like dog hair and dirty refrigerator.
HostThe Steliko Lookout is managed under a GT permit by non-profit organizations TREAD and Discover Entiat. Contact Discover Entiat for inquiries at 509-860-4267.
Campground Map
PO Box 476, Entiat, WA 98822
Driving directionsFrom Entiat, WA, travel 10.3 miles west on the Entiat River Road, also known as County Road 19. Turn right on NF Road 5310, drive past the forest service buildings and continue up the road (use four-wheel drive) for 1.5 miles. Stay straight on the 5310-110 at the 5310/5310-110 junction. Follow the 5310-110 to the lookout. Please note: Mid-November through mid-April the last 1.5 miles of the road is closed. The lookout is accessible by walking, skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling during this time.
The road to the lookout is narrow and steep at the beginning. It is accessible by SUV or four-wheel drive truck from mid-April to mid-November, but requires walking, skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling during winter months due to hazardous snow conditions. "The road was steeper than expected," remarked one user, and another user stated, "The gravel road is not too hard to drive. Any car would make it."Nearby places
Entiat (approximately 10.3 miles, 15-20 minutes drive), Ardenvoir (approx. 3 miles, 5-10 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and essentials can be purchased in Entiat (10.3 miles away). Ardenvoir (3 miles away) offers limited options. Fuel and camping supplies available in Entiat.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.3
38 reviews
Steliko Lookout is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the Steliko Lookout as a unique and memorable experience, characterized by stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a rustic yet well-equipped cabin. Some concerns were raised about the propane heater, occasional cleanliness issues, and the challenging access road.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the breathtaking views, excellent stargazing conditions, and overall experience of staying in a historic fire lookout. Many reviewers appreciated the stocked amenities,...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include difficulties with the propane heater, occasional unclean conditions (e.g., the refrigerator or trash left behind), and the steep, narrow gravel road that can be challenging...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing sufficient water, warm clothing, and backup lighting. Many advised watching the instructional video for the propane heater before arrival. Earplugs were suggested due to...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews often mention the beauty of the snowy landscape and the challenge of accessing the lookout due to ice and snow. Spring visitors highlight the blooming wildflowers and wildlife...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The heater worked fine—I think all the directions are overkill, just watch the YT video 🙃 The lookout is well stocked and the outhouse is surprisingly clean." - Joanna B. "It was an amazing...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews specific to Steliko Lookout generally emphasize the unique experience of staying in a fire lookout. Positive feedback highlights the views and amenities, while issues with the heater are...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Some reviewers with limited mobility noted the challenging access road and steep trails as potential barriers. Winter conditions, such as ice and snow, further complicate access for those with...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the Steliko Lookout, and multiple reviews mention compliance concerns with this rule, such as reports of dog hair left in the cabin.
Based on 38 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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