Oak Flat Lookout/Cabin
USFS · Lookout/Cabin · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- Fee charged
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Lookout/Cabin
- Reservations
- recreation.gov
- Coordinates
- 35.5354, -118.7062
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
Tower is Closed Access via Rancheria Rd., located in the Greenhorn Mtns offers rustic camping in the tower and below the tower. This lookout was once used by the Forest Service to spot fires, and can now be rented for $75 a night. It offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains, and is great for stargazers.
From the USFS.Official page
Is Oak Flat Lookout/Cabin free?
No. Oak Flat Lookout/Cabin charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
How do I get to Oak Flat Lookout/Cabin?
From the south take Highway 99 to Bakersfield, exit on Highway 178 and travel east towards the Kern River Canyon. after passing through the last traffic light (Miramonte Drive) east of town you will travel downhill. Rancheria Road will be the next left turn off the highway. Proceed 15 miles north along this road. The first part of Rancheria Road is paved and then it becomes an unimproved gravel road. It will take you approximately 45 minutes to reach the turnoff to Oak Flat. Watch for livestock and other traffic along this route. Turn right onto the Oak Flat spur road and travel up .7 miles to the Lookout tower.
What are the rules at Oak Flat Lookout/Cabin?
Minimum high clearance vehicle recommended for access to the tower. No trash service. Pack out what you pack in.
Nearby
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
