Nothing compares to the closeness to nature, grandness of views, and sheer romance of spending time on the top of a mountain in this historic gem of a Forest Service lookout. At an elevation of 3,419 feet, Lake of the Woods Lookout provides a sweeping panoramic view, with vistas to the Pacific Ocean, the Kalmiopsis and Wild Rogue Wildernesses, and the Wild and Scenic Illinois and Rogue River canyons.
The lookout, a one-room cabin with windows that provide 360-degree views, accommodates one to four people. It is equipped with a propane stove, lights, and is furnished with a table and two chairs, a double bed, foot stool, broom and fire extinguisher. Visitors should be prepared for a rustic camping experience, and will need to bring sufficient equipment, including bedding and cooking supplies. On site, adjacent to the lookout, are a picnic table and a fire pit for outdoor barbeques. (During periods of extreme fire danger there will be restrictions for outdoor burning). An outhouse is located near the lookout. No water is available on site; visitors must bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking and washing.
- Availability: Lake of the Woods Lookout is available for rent May through October 31 (snow accumulation may limit availability).
- Price and Capacity: $50 per night per group with a maximum of four occupants. Fees are used directly for the maintenance and preservation of the lookout.
- Reservations: Reservations must be made at least ten days in advance. The maximum length stay is five consecutive nights. Phone 1-877-444-6777 or visit www.recreation.gov
History
The lookout is located approximately 21 miles northeast of Gold Beach, Oregon. It was first located on Barklow Mountain on the Powers Ranger District. The R6 (Flat Roofed) cabin, originally a "ground house" (the lookout cabin was built on the ground, not on top of a tower), was flown by helicopter to the present location and placed on an eight-foot tower with a catwalk in 1974. Lake of the Woods Lookout was staffed during fire seasons from 1974 to 1996.
