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Established Camping

Black Mountain Lookout

Black Mountain Lookout is situated in Plumas National Forest, featuring forested terrain with mountain views. The area experiences temperature highs around 85°F in summer and lows near 20°F in winter. Nearby attractions include Lake Almanor and Lassen Volcanic National Park, offering opportunities for hiking and exploring.

Description

US Forest Service

Plumas National Forest

Overview

Black Mountain Lookout remained closed for the 2020 season and is expected to remain closed into 2021. Closure is due to COVID related demands in maintaining a safe environment for our customers and our staff. Black Mountain Lookout is located on the eastern edge of the Beckwourth Ranger District, 10 miles from Highway 395, near Milford, California. The lookout was constructed in 1934 and is a great example of Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) architecture. The C-3-type lookout is situated on a single story 10 foot tower and is extremely well-preserved. The lookout tower is normally available for Memorial Day weekend through October, offering guests a unique lodging experience in Plumas National Forest.

Recreation

Hiking, birding, stargazing and wildlife viewing are popular among guests of the lookout. On a clear night, visitors can gaze upon the expansive sky as it unfolds with a dazzling display of stars.

Facilities

The one-room lookout cabin is set on a tower, rising 10 feet above the ground. It is furnished with two single beds with mattresses, but can accommodate up to four people. There is also space for tent camping adjacent to the lookout, for up to four visitors. The cabin has a small table and chairs, a refrigerator, a small stove, heater, and lights, all powered with electricity. A picnic table and vault toilet are also on site. Although the lookout provides a few amenities, guests must bring several of their own, including food, cooking utensils, sleeping bags, towels, dish soap and garbage bags. No water is available at this facility, so guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking and washing. Packing an additional light source is also recommended.

Natural Features

The Plumas National Forest is defined by its unique land features and pleasant climate. Outdoor enthusiasts are attracted to the many streams and lakes, beautiful deep canyons, rich mountain valleys, meadows and lofty peaks. Guests at Black Mountain Lookout are treated to striking views of Honey Lake to the north, and Last Chance Creek to the south. Diverse vegetation provides a habitat for wildlife including deer, coyotes, bald eagles and osprey. Frenchman Lake is within a 30-minute drive from the lookout. This lake is popular for swimming, water skiing, fishing and camping.

Charges & Cancellations

reservations may only be modified or cancelled up to three days in advance of arrival date.

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Location

Black Mountain Lookout is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

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.

Coordinates

40.1152778 N
120.3211111 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Poor
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Fair
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Pets

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


Reviews

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3 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 3, 2025

Absolutely BREATHTAKING !!!

Our 3rd fire lookout, and each one has its own amazing character!! Quite the goat-road to get up here, but nothing the Crosstrek couldn’t manage. 360 degrees of breathtaking vistas!!! Honey Lake to the north, a gorgeous vale/meadow to the south. The tease of thunderstorms all around. One standard USFS pit toilet (super clean). Electricity to power a stove/fridge/heater/lights. FULL cell service, as you are about 500 yards away (as crow flies) from cell/microwave tower. Inside there are many comforts of home, left by others (books/cards/games/cleaning supplies & a few non-perishable food items). A bit windy in afternoon but will see how it is in the morning. NO water or trash service, but there is a sink. Worth EVERY mile to get here….

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Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Black Mountain Lookout by Greg B., July 3, 2025
  • Review photo of Black Mountain Lookout by Greg B., July 3, 2025
  • Review photo of Black Mountain Lookout by Greg B., July 3, 2025
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

How hard is it to get a campsite at Black Mountain Lookout?

Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Black Mountain Lookout. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Black Mountain Lookout, try setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Black Mountain Lookout?

There are 1 campsites at Black Mountain Lookout and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts