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Official

Established Camping

Drake Peak Lookout

Drake Peak Lookout is situated in the Fremont-Winema National Forest, featuring a landscape of forested areas and open spaces. The weather in this area typically sees highs around 80°F in summer and lows near 20°F in winter. Nearby attractions include the Warner Canyon Ski Area and the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge, offering opportunities for skiing and wildlife observation.

Description

USDA Forest Service

Fremont-Winema National Forest

Overview

Located on the crest of the Warner Mountain Range at an elevation of 8,222 feet, Drake Peak Lookout hugs the wind-swept land surrounding it, offering unparalleled views into Oregon, California and Nevada. The lookout was built in 1948 and has served as a fire detection site for the surrounding area. Historically, Forest Service personnel lived long seasons in the cabin, scanning the region for lightning, flames, curls of smoke or any other indicator of possible forest fires. At one time, hundreds of these types of lookouts were in service throughout the Pacific Northwest. Today the lookout provides a unique lodging experience for guests seeking recreation and relaxation in the Fremont-Winema National Forest. Although the lookout offers some basic amenities, for guests to enjoy their experience completely, they must bring several of their own supplies.

Recreation

Hiking, stargazing and wildlife viewing are popular activities. The Drake-McDowell area provides solitude for backpackers and horseback riders with spectacular views of the Warner Mountains, Hart Mountain, Warner Valley and Abert Rim. A hike to the summit of Drake Peak is a popular excursion from the lookout. At night the lookout is an ideal setting for stargazing, as constellations and planets put on a dazzling display.

Natural Features

Drake Peak Lookout sits beneath a vast sky, overlooking distant peaks, volcanic landscapes and wide-open sage basins. From its scenic perch, the lookout offers panoramic vistas and glimpses into wild places where visitors can still find solitude. Although the lookout does not sit on Drake Peak, the nearby mountain is one of several high peaks in the immediate vicinity, including Twelvemile Peak, Light Peak and Crook Peak. Composed of uplifted and eroded basalt, and sparse vegetation, views from this mountain offer unobstructed views of unique geological landforms. Diverse habitats support a variety of species. Deer, Rocky Mountain elk and pronghorn find homes in nearby forests, while several varieties of trout inhabit the lakes and streams. In the spring and fall, migrating geese, ducks and swans frame the Oregon sky. Black bears, mountain lions and bobcats, also find homes in the surrounding area.

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Location

Drake Peak Lookout is located in Oregon

Detail location of campground

Directions

From the Lakeview Ranger District Office, travel 6 miles north on Highway 395, and turn right on Highway 140. Take Highway 140 east for 8 miles, then turn left on Forest Road 3615. Continue on Forest Road 3615 for 7.5 miles and turn right on Forest Road 019. Follow Forest Road 019 for 5 miles to the lookout.

Address

18049 HWY 395
Lakeview, OR 97630

Coordinates

42.30056 N
120.15783 W

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Site Types

  • Cabins

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Frequently Asked Questions

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