About Calpine Lookout
Number of accommodations: 1
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Open year round
This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.
Sites & Availability
1 Site Available
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Site Details
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1 Site Available
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Reviews (25)
What Guests Are Saying
The Calpine Fire Lookout offers a memorable experience with stunning views, excellent hiking, and a serene setting ideal for stargazing. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities, including a gas stove and fireplace, creating a comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of glamping. The attentive management and inviting environment encourage guests to return for future stays.
What Guests Are Saying
The Calpine Fire Lookout offers a memorable experience with stunning views, excellent hiking, and a serene setting ideal for stargazing. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities, including a gas stove and fireplace, creating a comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of glamping. The attentive management and inviting environment encourage guests to return for future stays.
Review Summary
william p
VerifiedApril 12, 2024 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Take Plenty of water and put your food up on the hooks or an ice chest because there are a few critters that come out at night.
Ellen O
VerifiedFebruary 26, 2024 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Gorgeous spot, the winter trail was well marked. The kitchen could use a few mugs.
Ben T
VerifiedFebruary 14, 2024 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
We had a wonderful time skiing into the fire lookout.
J.R. S
VerifiedAugust 17, 2023 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Another great spot this is the second tower I've stayed in, a perfect experience.
Jodi M
VerifiedApril 12, 2023 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Everything was perfect for our stay. A few housekeeping tips - mantles were burnt out and the oven wasn’t working, but that did not stop us from enjoying ourselves.
Ellie E
VerifiedMarch 12, 2023 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
There were about five feet of fresh powder when we made our way up, and it was really difficult going breaking trail, but well worth the effort. We ended up leaving early as another massive storm was rolling in, but it’s beautiful and wild up there and an adventure we’ll never forget! We’ve been in the summer too, and it’s a totally different (but also amazing) experience. We’ll be back for sure!
Heather D
VerifiedFebruary 22, 2023 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Heavy snow this year meant a more arduous snowshoe hike in, but it was worth it for big clear skies, immaculate hillsides to explore, and perfect solitude. Warm and cozy - an absolute dream.
Katrina W
VerifiedFebruary 15, 2023 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Beautiful.
Ivajlo N
VerifiedFebruary 6, 2023 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Great experience! The lookout is well stocked with pots, pans and utensils - no need to bring anything for cooking besides food. The gas fireplace warms the place very well. Temps dropped to 5F during our stay but we were still warm and cozy inside. A good sleeping bag is all you need. We brought a bunch of extra blankets and pads but we only needed a pad for the cot. There is only one cot besides the two beds so it's ideal for 3 people. We melted snow for water... bring tons of water in the summer.
Activities: We had about 15-20 inches of fresh powder and sledding right off the tower was the highlight for the kids. There is a chess set, a few puzzles and some playing cards but if you want you can bring your own games/cards/puzzles.
The staff at the Sierraville Ranger Station is super helpful. They provide detailed instructions in your reservation package for your stay - how to get there, what's available, etc. etc. Reach out to them if you have any questions.
Good cell coverage (Verizon) - but if your kids don't know that or if you put away their phones you can really spend some time in nature without any distractions.
Nicholas H
VerifiedNovember 14, 2022 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Absolutely incredible experience. Tim was the best.
Location Calpine Lookout
Address:
Sierraville Ranger District
Sierraville, CA, 96126
United States
From Sierraville, the lookout is approximately 10 miles north on State Highway 89. Renters will be given a renters packet after check-in with the best access or parking based on current weather conditions. During the winter months, access is by snowshoes, skiis or snowmobiles on a 2 mile trail with a 1000 foot elevation gain.
Latitude & Longitude: 39.6789 / -120.462
Elevation: 1776 feet
Policies & Rules
| Category | About |
|---|---|
| General |
Approximately 2 weeks before arrival, the Sierraville Ranger District will contact renters to confirm the reservation and give check-in instructions by email. Contact the Sierraville Office at (530) 994-3401 (Monday through Friday) for road and weather conditions or fire restrictions. |
| General |
Weather conditions and snow may cause the access road to be closed. The gate combination will not be given under these conditions and the only access to the lookout will be on foot. |
| General |
The key for the lookout is kept in a lockbox at the lookout; renters will be given the combination to the gate and the lockbox upon check-in. |
| General |
Snowshoes, skis or snowmobiles are required to access the lookout when snow is present. Remember you must also pack in all your supplies and water. |
| General |
In winter conditions, temperatures may be as low as -21 degrees; cold weather clothing is required. |
| General |
No water is available; visitors must bring their own supply. |
| General |
Pack out all food and trash. |
| General |
Lightning may be a hazard during summer storms. |
| General |
Renters need to provide a valid contact phone number on their reservation so the district staff may contact renters with check-in procedures and current conditions before arrival. |
| General |
Learn more about Tahoe National Forest |
| General |
Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov. |
