Lake of the Woods Lookout is surrounded by mountainous terrain, forested hillsides and spectacular views within the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in southwestern Oregon.
The flat-roofed cabin was originally a "ground house" located on Barklow Mountain in the Powers Ranger District. It was flown by helicopter to its present location and placed on a 12 ft. tower and catwalk in 1974. It was then staffed during fire seasons from 1974 to 1996.
The lookout offers some amenities, but guests are asked to bring a few of their own supplies to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
Activities & Attractions
Nearby
Birding
Year-round
Fishing
Year-round
Hiking
Year-round
Year-round
Birding
Nearby
Fishing
Nearby
Hiking
Nearby
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
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Campground Amenities
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On Site Services
Propane
Propane
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Lake of the Woods Lookout offers stunning views and a charming, rustic experience, complete with a propane cooktop and basic supplies. Guests recommend bringing your own bedding and essentials, as the lookout lacks heating and some amenities. While access can be challenging and Google Maps directions are not reliable, the trip is deemed worthwhile for the beautiful surroundings and unique stay.
Enjoyed my stay here. The lookout tower is well set up with basic necessities, it was raining during my stay but I was warm and dry throughout the night. The drive from town took approx 2 hours and I had some difficulty unlocking the padlocks, but it was worth the unique experience:)
Enjoyed my stay here. The lookout tower is well set up with basic necessities, it was raining during my stay but I was warm and dry throughout the night. The drive from town took approx 2 hours and I had some difficulty unlocking the padlocks, but it was worth the unique experience:)
2nd time to the Lake of the Woods Fire Lookout. Absolutely stunning views and beautiful surroundings. The Lookout is equipped with a propane stove for cooking but you have to pack in everything else. Double mattress and box springs works great if you bring sleeping bags as it has been well used. Nice wooden table for dining and playing games with benches. Stairs are steep.
Gold Beach Ranger District says they have issues with people getting lost in finding the lookout. DO NOT USE THE GOOGLE MAP LINK that is on Recreation Northwest website. Go to US Forest Service Page and print out the driving directions. And watch for the signs coming from Gold Beach and you cross the Rogue River and it’s an easy drive to the gate for the Lookout.
2nd time to the Lake of the Woods Fire Lookout. Absolutely stunning views and beautiful surroundings. The Lookout is equipped with a propane stove for cooking but you have to pack in everything else. Double mattress and box springs works great if you bring sleeping bags as it has been well used. Nice wooden table for dining and playing games with benches. Stairs are steep.
Gold Beach Ranger District says they have issues with people getting lost in finding the lookout. DO NOT USE THE GOOGLE MAP LINK that is on Recreation Northwest website. Go to US Forest Service Page and print out the driving directions. And watch for the signs coming from Gold Beach and you cross the Rogue River and it’s an easy drive to the gate for the Lookout.
Bare bones lookout. Beautiful setting and way off the main roads. Minimal supplies so plan to take everything you need including plates, cups, silverware.
No heater while I was there, solar shower is just a stall with no water reservoir.
Bare bones lookout. Beautiful setting and way off the main roads. Minimal supplies so plan to take everything you need including plates, cups, silverware.
No heater while I was there, solar shower is just a stall with no water reservoir.
This look out comes with a full size bed and some furniture as well as a small gas cooktop stove and propane lights. There are some pots and pans, utensils, and cooking supplies as well as some cleaning supplies. One thing that is not provided at the lookout is heat so if you are staying when cold make sure you are prepared. Gorgeous views especially the sunsets over the Pacific Ocean!
This look out comes with a full size bed and some furniture as well as a small gas cooktop stove and propane lights. There are some pots and pans, utensils, and cooking supplies as well as some cleaning supplies. One thing that is not provided at the lookout is heat so if you are staying when cold make sure you are prepared. Gorgeous views especially the sunsets over the Pacific Ocean!
Helpful
Location & Directions for Lake of the Woods Lookout
29279 Ellensburg Avenue, Gold Beach, OR 97444 United States
From Portland take 1-5 S to OR 38W, Follow US 101 to Gold Beach. From Gold Beach, Oregon, on the north end of the town, turn east off of US Highway 101 onto County Road 595 (Jerry's Flat Road). Travel east on County Road 595 which becomes Forest R...
From Portland take 1-5 S to OR 38W, Follow US 101 to Gold Beach. From Gold Beach, Oregon, on the north end of the town, turn east off of US Highway 101 onto County Road 595 (Jerry's Flat Road). Travel east on County Road 595 which becomes Forest Road 33. Turn left at 11.4 mi on to Forest Road 3310, cross bridge and go 13.7 mi. Stay to the right at the fork and turn on Forest Road 3340. Stay on this road for 5.1 mi. Turn left here onto Forest Road 141 - look for the gate in this 5-road junction. Lookout is 0.75-mile up Forest Road 141 spur. Caution! Road is rough. Travel time from Gold Beach is approximately 1.5 hours and 30.2 mi on narrow, paved and gravel roads. Forest Service roads are generally one lane gravel roads with pullouts. Many people use these roads, including logging trucks and recreational vehicles. Drive slowly, stay to the right at all times, and use pullouts.
From Powers, Oregon. At this moment, we don't recommend taking the Forest Service Road 3340. It is impassable. Instead, take the Forest Service Road 3336 to the Lookout.
You can also, follow the following links for directions:
Lake of the Woods Lookout is accessible via US Highway 101, which is approximately 11 miles from Gold Beach, Oregon. Travelers can reach the campground by taking OR 38W and then US 101.