Smith Peak Lookout Road Dispersed — Stanislaus NF

Open oak-and-conifer terrain in Stanislaus National Forest just below the Smith Peak fire lookout offers this spot with shade, open views, and quiet access to the western gateway of Yosemite. Forest Route 1S16 reaches it by continuing past Pines Campground — the road is potholed and can wash out seasonally, but remains passable on good days without four-wheel drive. The site fits vans and similar-sized rigs; the approach is too tight and the clearance too low for larger RVs. In summer and early fall the lookout is staffed, and the short walk up for sunrise or sunset is worth it.