Sites & Rates
Average nightly rates1 total site
Cabins
1 site
About Black Mountain Lookout
Number of accommodations: 1
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Pet friendly
Picnic Table
Restrooms
Fire Pit
Water and Hygiene
- Restrooms
Cooking and Fire
- Picnic Table
- BBQ
- Fire Pit
Pets and Policies
- Pet friendly
001, Loop: BLACK MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
Site Details
Reviews (14)
What Guests Are Saying
Black Mountain Lookout is a highly sought-after and beautiful spot for an overnight stay, offering serene views and amenities like a fridge and microwave. Visitors should be aware that a high clearance vehicle is necessary for access, and it's important to bring potable water and sleeping bags for added comfort. Despite some logistical challenges, many guests express eagerness to return and appreciate the lookout's maintenance and upgrades.
What Guests Are Saying
Black Mountain Lookout is a highly sought-after and beautiful spot for an overnight stay, offering serene views and amenities like a fridge and microwave. Visitors should be aware that a high clearance vehicle is necessary for access, and it's important to bring potable water and sleeping bags for added comfort. Despite some logistical challenges, many guests express eagerness to return and appreciate the lookout's maintenance and upgrades.
Review Summary
William C
VerifiedAugust 1, 2024 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: BLACK MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
The lookout has spectacular views and everything was working, with the exception of the USB lanterns someone left there. Some were missing the power supplies and cables. There were 2 fixtures but only one bulb, but we had a spare light bulb with us, so light was not a problem at nigh; we left the bulb for future guests. The windows were functional, but no screens to keep insects out. In addition, there are large gaps in the frame so that when the wind blows, there is quite a breeze in the room. The vault toilet after dark was a challenge but we came prepared for that 2 AM call of nature us old farts experience!
It is a wonderful piece of history to experience, although we did not do much hiking due to lack of trails nearby and inclement weather.
Cell service is strong, perhaps because of the tower on top of the next hill (1/4 mile away as the crow flies?). Unfortunately, there was a streetlight there that broke the absolute darkness when we turned off our lights; curtains would help (we used towels).
Amy W
VerifiedJune 16, 2026 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: BLACK MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
This was a summer stay we were so looking forward to this stay, but that didn’t get to happen!
Whatever you do make sure to contact the Ranger Station and ‘ double check’ your codes given!!!
Julien D
VerifiedJune 25, 2026 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: BLACK MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
Everything was just as expected. I stay at various Fire Lookouts yearly. This one is a shining star, with a fridge and microwave as a bonus. Not a ton of shade but it’s in a great spot to overlook the east Plumas all the way to Lassen Pk. Third year in a row and the Beckworth Ranger District has done a great job keeping her up. There’s a work day scheduled in August with new exterior paint coming. Highly recommended.
Carlos M
VerifiedAugust 18, 2026 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: BLACK MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
The lookout was a great place to stay the night. Serene and beautiful. We loved it... this place is in high demand for good reason.
However, there are some things you MUST know...
1/ you NEED a high clearance vehicle to make it to the lookout, otherwise you'll have to park the vehicle as close as you can and hike the rest of the way up (we did this and i don't recommend it).
2/ The lookout has a dry sink so you must take water (potable and drinking water).
3/ take sleeping bags. the lookout has 2 beds, but you'll be more comfortable and warm if you wrap yourself in a sleeping bag.
We would love to return and enjoy the lookout in the future!
Location Black Mountain Lookout
Address:
Po Box 7
Blairsden, CA, 96103
United States
Access to the lookout is by a dirt road; high clearance vehicles are recommended. Visitors should be aware that access is subject to inclement weather during the early and late season.
Black Mountain Lookout is located on the eastern edge of the Beckwourth Ranger District, 10 miles from Highway 395, near Milford, California.
From Highway 395 at Milford take County Road 336 to Milford Grade. Turn right onto Milford Grade (also named County Road 336 and Forest Rd. 26N70. Turn left on Forest Road 26N80 and continue on this road to lookout.
Black Mountain Lookout is located approximately 10 miles from Highway 395 near Milford, California.
Elevation: 2153 feet
42 mi drive to downtown Blairsden (about 1 hr 17 min)
Policies & Rules
General
- Entry to the cabin is by key; contact the Beckwourth Ranger District at (530) 836-2575 for the combination to the lock box and to check on any restrictions or conditions, such as fire or road closures, weather or storms that may affect the quality of your visit. The office is open.
- Access to the cabin is by dirt road; high clearance vehicles are recommended
- Maximum capacity of the tower is four people, however tent camping adjacent to the tower is available for up to four guests
- Pets are welcome
- Keep the building and grounds clean to deter squirrel, mice, rats, bears, and other wildlife from area
- Pack out all trash
- Doors and windows should be locked and all personal items removed upon departure
- The lookout tower is a no-smoking facility
- Bring enough water for your stay.
- reservations may only be modified or cancelled up to three days in advance of arrival date.
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: September 8, 2026
