Camp ObserverGirard Ridge Lookout
Camp site features
Across 1 camp site:
- Largest party: 4 people
Directions
From Redding California, or Mt. Shasta, take Interstate 5 towards Castle Crags State Park. Exit the Interstate at the Soda Creek exit 726. From here, the lookout is approximately 7.5 miles over mostly dirt road. Head east towards the Sacramento River. Cross the bridge over the river and veer right until you come to a road intersection. Turn right on Riverside and follow a curvy and narrow paved road to the intersection of the Girard Ridge Road (Forest Service Road Number 38N23). Turn left, heading up hill. The road will change from pavement to dirt at the 1.9 mile mark from I-5. You will pass some microwave towers. At the top of the hill at approx 6.5 miles from the interstate look for a road intersection, this is Forest Service Road Number 39N13. It will be your first left. Turn here and travel approximately .6 mile to an unnumbered road again on your left. A sign says Girard Ridge Lookout with an arrow. Turn here and you will come to a green Forest Service gate. Open the gate and travel on this road until you reach the lookout (about 1/2 mile).
Active logging will be taking place through September 30, 2023 near the Girard lookout and may cause temperary road closure and access to the lookout. Expect delays and be mindfull of logging activity in the area.
Stay Limit
Check in from 12 PM, check out by 12 PM.
Reviews
Sue L
Loop:Area Girard Ridge Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 10 months ago
We visited Girard Ridge Lookout at the end of September and it was so cold. The day we arrived was mostly overcast and we were able to see the most beautiful view of Castle Crags…but it didn’t last long before the clouds moved in and it started raining. Unfortunately we didn’t bring a heater, although luckily we brought warm clothes and sleeping bags. By the end of day 2 we decided to leave early due to the cold temps. I wish there had been a way to heat the place because we were having a nice time. We hope to be back sometime to check out all the views. This is the 2nd lookout we’ve stayed in and we love this unique way to enjoy nature…the quiet and the beauty!
kaitlin G
Loop:Area Girard Ridge Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
Views were amazing. Road was ok. Beds were terrible.
Ann W
Loop:Area Girard Ridge Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Lookout. The drive up isn't nearly as bad as some might suggest, just a few sharp turns to navigate, and then you're rewarded with spectacular views.
The vistas of Mount Shasta and Castle Crags were absolutely breathtaking, providing a stunning backdrop to our days. We spent a lot of time hiking along the old logging roads, which offered even more incredible viewpoints and a chance to truly immerse ourselves in the natural beauty.
As night fell, the stars put on an unforgettable show – they were truly amazing and offered a rare glimpse into the clarity of the night sky away from city lights.
Regarding the "resident mouse," we never actually saw it! We followed the helpful tip of using a foil ball to clog the small hole by the door jam, and it seemed to do the trick perfectly, keeping any critters out. Just a small heads-up: one board on the stairs is missing, so definitely watch your step there.
Overall, the peace and quiet was incredibly relaxing and exactly what we needed. We can't wait to visit again.
Will A
Loop:Area Girard Ridge Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
Really lovely. The upside is that there were no unexpected human visitors. The downside is that there were no unexpected animal visitors. There was Ceiling Mouse, but Ceiling Mouse was expected. It was a very neat place to see Shasta and the Crags. Thanks, USFS!
Erik G
Loop:Area Girard Ridge Lookout
Site:
Reviewed a year ago
Next. Level experience. Very private and the feeling of being connected with nature was incredible.
Daniel B
Loop:Area Girard Ridge Lookout
Site:
Reviewed 2 years ago
Such a cozy old lookout cabin! The drive is long, and 4WD high clearance is required, as stated. This lookout feels old and tired, but in an authentic way. Beautiful evergreens surround it, and there's a nice fire ring next to it. This has clearly never been "restored", but it has been maintained just enough to say that it has survived. Just treat it kindly and step carefully on the deck. One of the beds is much more comfortable than the other, there's a good stock of cleaning supplies and games and books. Compared to Hirz Mountain lookout, which feels industrial and serious, this one feels like a family cabin in the woods. Both are great, but this one is much easier to get to.
