Camp ObserverPine Mountain Lookout
Camp site features
Across 1 camp site:
- Pets allowed: all 1 sites
- Largest party: 6 people
Directions
From Upper Lake:
Proceed north on M1/Elk Mountain Road past the Upper Lake Ranger Station. After several miles, as indicated by the sign, turn left onto 18N05.
Soon after leaving M1/Elk Mountain Road, you will come to a three-way intersection. Only the center road (up the hill) and the right-hand road will get you to the Lookout. The right-hand road is in better shape. If you do not have 4-wheel-drive and high clearance, the center road is not recommended.
After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along.
From Potter Valley:
Travel on M8 (south side of Eel River) is not recommended as the PG&E gates are unpredictably opened and closed, and progress on 18N05 from M8 could be blocked by trees.
Turn right on Eel River Road (North County Road 240B) and drive 4 miles to the Y intersection. Take the right hand fork of the Y, signed as Cutoff Road, and travel down the hill for about a half-mile. At the bottom of the hill proceed north on County Road 240B and cross the bridge to the north side of Eel River.
Turn right towards Lake Pillsbury and proceed for 14 miles to the junction with M1 at the Soda Creek Store.
Turn right (south) onto M1. At the junction of M1 and M8, proceed to the left (uphill, following the sign for Upper Lake) to stay on M1.
After approx 6 miles, as indicated by the sign, turn right onto 18N05. After a few miles, make the hairpin turn to the left onto 17N23. A gate indicated by a sign will be on the right a few miles along.
Stay Limit
Check in from 2 PM, check out by 12 PM.
Reviews
Jeni E
Loop:Area Pine Mountain Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 3 months ago
A lovely quiet stay with expansive views surrounded by beautiful birdsong and sightings, and the smell of evergreen trees. The terrain itself is beautiful but not pristine as a result of fires and logging. A perfect getaway from civilization if you are seeking peace and quiet. We didn't expect to have cell service, but we did (T-Mobile). We had one rattlesnake encounter scoping out the old outhouse so just stayed on roads when we took walks. Very cozy and comfortable. Bugs were around but no big deal at all.
Dan N
Loop:Area Pine Mountain Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 3 months ago
Amazing piece of history. Rustic, peaceful
michael m
Loop:Area Pine Mountain Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
A nature wonderland. The structure warms up during late summer nights. Agile feet necessary. Vault toilet same. Stargazing with minimal light pollution. Wildlife... you are their guest. Note, long way to the hospital.
Peter B
Loop:Area Pine Mountain Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
Excellent sunset views and cute little cabin! Drive definitely needs higher clearance vehicle once you’re on the forest roads. CRV handled it well.
Brittany S
Loop:Area Pine Mountain Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
Warning for anyone currently going - baby rattlesnakes!!!! The area around the lookout has a rocky area with steps and I got my Indiana Jones moment with snakes! If you are bringing dogs or children please be cautious. Be very cautious and watch where you step! Wear boots and know that the snakes really loved warming themselves on the rocks going up to the structure.
Honestly, the views, fun off road driving and amazing historic structure were a 5 star. The pit toilet was super clean. The inside of the cabin was what you’d expect and rustic. I’m may try this spot again outside rattlesnake season. My husband and I camp with a kid and 2 dogs. That was too many feet/paws on the ground for an area with very active baby rattlesnakes. Knowing it takes about an hour to get out if there was an emergency, we left.
Lorene E
Loop:Area Pine Mountain Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 2 years ago
Great time at the fire lookout. Do not use Google Maps; use the directions from this website's PDF of the map. Next time, I'm bringing an axe to chop firewood instead of buying some on the way up. OK cellphone reception from the cabin area. We traveled up in a Prius and had difficulty getting over some of the ruts in the road but we made it up there. Next time I'm coming up, I'm renting a car with higher clearance to save my anxiety while driving up to the top of the mountain. Great two nights for peace and quiet!
