Bald Butte Lookout Recreation Site

About this place

Bald Butte Lookout, located one hour twenty minutes southwest of Paisley, Oregon, is perched atop the windy summit of Bald Butte in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. It is surrounded by forested hillsides and tremendous views of the Gearhart Wilderness, Dead Horse Rim, and snowcapped peaks, including Mount Shasta. The lookout was built in 1931 with materials packed in on horseback and served as a fire detection site for over 50 years. Due to the lack of vegetation on Bald Butte, there isn't any shade, but the high elevation and mountain breezes stabilize the temperature. The windows open in the lookout, keeping the inside cool and the air circulating. The cozy 14' x 14' space sleeps two people comfortably. Guests will find two cots, a table, bench, and storage cabinets. Other amenities include a propane stove, heater, and lights. A vault toilet, picnic table, and fire ring complete the outside features. There is no potable water on site, so guests must bring sufficient supplies for drinking, cooking, and washing. Guests must also provide their own sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, first aid kit, toilet paper, ice cooler, and garbage bags. Although lighting is available, it is recommended that guests bring an additional light source in case of emergencies. At night the lookout provides an unforgettable setting for stargazing, thanks to its exposed summit. Bald Butte Lookout offers restful views, convenience to hiking trails, tranquility and seclusion that's reachable by car (you can drive right up to the lookout.) Availability: Bald Butte Lookout is available for rent June 15 through October 15, depending on snow levels. Price and Capacity: $40 per night, per group, with a maximum of two occupants. Fees are used directly for the maintenance and preservation of the lookout. Reservations: Online at: www.recreation.gov or by telephone at 877-444-6777.

From the USFS.Official page