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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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
Roger W
VerifiedNovember 12, 2022 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Noah S
VerifiedJune 29, 2020 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
Fantastic lookout with an amazing view. Hiked about an hour uphill through the snow to reach it in the winter. Gas heater, stove, lights, books, basic cooking utensils all available. Toilet is clean.
Seth F
VerifiedJanuary 26, 2020 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
This was a great excursion in winter. We prepared to bring our gear on a pulk sled, but there wasn't enough snow so everything went into backpacks for the 2 mile hike from the Post Office to the fire lookout. The trail was very easy to find, the cabin was in good shape, and the views were spectacular. We put together a puzzle that was stored in the bookcase and enjoyed the gas-powered fireplace. In summer you can drive directly to the lookout which will make it easier for those not ready for backpacking. I'm very grateful that we have access to these places and that we can preserve it for others to enjoy responsibly. Remember to keep a watchful eye out for Potato Man ;)
Alena L
VerifiedJanuary 24, 2020 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
It was beautiful and magical. We went in November - didn't see another soul on the hill. The lookout has a little propane fireplace that heated the small space right up even though it was 35 degrees outside, we were toasty. It was great to have the propane stove and oven to cook with as well! We would definitely stay here again, peaceful, relaxing, beautiful spot.
Terry H
VerifiedJanuary 15, 2020 • Stayed at: 001, Loop: AREA CALPINE C.O.
A once in a lifetime experience!
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. |
