Established Camping
Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin
Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin is situated in the Boise National Forest, featuring forested terrain with mountainous surroundings. Temperature highs can reach the 80s (Fahrenheit) in summer, while winter lows may drop into the 20s. Visitors can explore the nearby Deadwood Reservoir and the scenic Payette River, both offering recreational opportunities.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Boise National Forest
Overview
Deadwood Lookout Recreation Cabin is a historic Forest Service fire lookout on Deadwood Mountain. The structure provides sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding forest, making this a unique place to overnight.At least two other lookouts have existed previously on Deadwood Mountain, but the current one was built in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It was actively used as a fire lookout until 1972. It has since become one of the most popular rental cabins in Idaho.The peak season is late June through mid-October. Guests can drive to the cabin, but high clearance vehicles are recommended for the dirt access road because it is narrow, steep and winding.The cabin offers only a few basic amenities. Guests should be prepared to bring most of what they need to make themselves comfortable, but the views of the mountains by day and the stars at night guarantee a memorable and rewarding experience.
Recreation
Hikers and mountain bikers have access to three nearby trails: Scott Mountain, Julie Creek, and Nellie's Basin. The Deadwood Ridge Trail is a popular destination for equestrians, hikers, mountain bikers, and off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
Natural Features
The cabin is perched atop Deadwood Mountain at an elevation of 7482 feet. A variety of colorful wildflowers bloom around the base of the cabin in the summer, and stands of conifers dot the landscape. Mornings bring unobstructed views of sunrises. Guests can watch the sun set each evening and then gaze out at an endless canopy of stars. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot elk, deer and bear in the surrounding area. Bull moose have occasionally been spotted along nearby trails. Guests may find swallows and other birds nesting just outside the lookout. Guests can also expect to see various types of snakes, including Gopher snakes, Garter snakes, Racer snakes, Bull snakes & Rattlesnakes, especially when temperatures reach 70-82 degrees fahrenheit outside.
Location
Deadwood Lookout Rec Cabin is located in Idaho
Directions
From Boise, Idaho, take Highway 55 north about 35 miles to Banks, Idaho. Turn right (east) on Banks-Lowman Road and proceed 25 miles to the junction with Forest Road 555. Turn left (north) on Road 555 and proceed 9 miles to the junction of Forest Roads 555 and 555EC. Turn right on 555EC and proceed 3 miles to Deadwood Lookout Recreation Cabin at the end of the road.
Address
EMMETT RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE
1857 HIGHWAY 16, SUITE A
Emmett, ID 83617
Coordinates
44.1088889 N
115.7033333 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiAvailable
- VerizonGood
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Reservable