About Sardine Peak Lookout
Seasonal information
2026 Season availability
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Water and Hygiene
- Restrooms
Cooking and Fire
- Picnic Table
- Fire Pit
On Site Services
- Propane
01, Loop: SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT
- 4 guests
- Pet Friendly
- Campfire
Site Details
Reviews (4)
What Guests Are Saying
Sardine Peak Lookout offers amazing views and features a stove and furnace for comfort. The access road can be challenging, requiring AWD or sturdy tires, making the journey longer. However, the stunning scenery at the top makes the effort worthwhile.
What Guests Are Saying
Sardine Peak Lookout offers amazing views and features a stove and furnace for comfort. The access road can be challenging, requiring AWD or sturdy tires, making the journey longer. However, the stunning scenery at the top makes the effort worthwhile.
Review Summary
Lorna W
VerifiedOctober 2, 2026 • Stayed at: 01, Loop: SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT
Had a restful time just looking out at the scenery. Sun and moon rise and set were the main events. Did a little orienteering of the compound with the provided map. Had a little difficulty with the heater. The ON button is a little sticky. Need to push firmly down before turning to ON position. Used nearly 10 gallons of water in two nights for two people just for drinking, cooking and washing dishes. Very windy as expected for a mountain peak. Largest known specimen of western juniper nearby on the S650.
Julien D
VerifiedOctober 2, 2026 • Stayed at: 01, Loop: SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT
Spent quite a few vacations here over the years. Some things have changed but overall always a great experience. One thing I did let the Sierraville Rangers station know is at the time of my booking the lock was missing off the gate, lots of UTV’s and dirtbikers kept letting themselves in. Otherwise it was a great time with some friends. Bring plenty of water and paper towels for dish washing.
Hannah S
VerifiedSeptember 15, 2026 • Stayed at: 01, Loop: SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT
Easy to access, warm with plenty of amenities, stove is a little finicky but adds to the charm.
Alexandra R
VerifiedJuly 18, 2026 • Stayed at: 01, Loop: SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT
Amazing views! Having a the stove and furnace was great. Road takes a bit longer to get through if you don't have AWD or sturdier tires since its about ~11 mi on a dirt/rocky road but once you're up there, its an absolute dream.
Location & Directions for Sardine Peak Lookout
Sierraville Ranger District, Sierraville, CA 96126 United States
Elevation: 2,475 ft
Getting There
From the Sierraville Ranger District Office, proceed south on Highway 89 for 12 mi to Sierra County Road S450. Turn left onto road S450 and proceed east for 4 mi to Sierra County Road S650, the Lemon Canyon Road. Turn left onto County Road S650 ...
From the Sierraville Ranger District Office, proceed south on Highway 89 for 12 mi to Sierra County Road S450. Turn left onto road S450 and proceed east for 4 mi to Sierra County Road S650, the Lemon Canyon Road. Turn left onto County Road S650 and proceed north for 2 mi to Forest Service Road 650-75, the Sardine Peak Lookout Road and proceed 4 mi to the locked gate. Sardine Peak Lookout is about 250 yards beyond the locked gate.
Highway access
The Sardine Peak Lookout is accessed via Highway 89, which is approximately 12 miles south from the Sierraville Ranger District Office.
Nearby Campgrounds
Nearby destinations
Last updated: October 22, 2026