Fairview Peak Lookout Tower

Overview

This lookout is perched atop Fairview Peak at an elevation of 5,933 feet, offering visitors a unique lodging experience in Umpqua National Forest in southwest Oregon.

The Fairview Peak site was historically occupied as a fire lookout since the 1920s. During the late 50s and early 60s the tower was used as an Air Force "gap filler" radar station. Having a range of around 65 miles, these radars were placed in areas where it was thought enemy aircraft could fly low to avoid detection by the lower-range radars of the permanent and mobile radar networks.

The lookout tower is available for reservations from mid-June or early July through mid-October, and typically unavailable during peak fire season, usually the months of August and September, when it is in use for fire administration. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for travel to this site, and guests must bring several of their own amenities.

This site is located in National Forest System lands. While an effort is made to make your stay enjoyable, these sites are popular to the recreating public so you may find visitors interested in the area and the facilities. While you do not have to let them inside the facility they are allowed to be in the area.

Natural Features:

On a clear day, guests at Fairview Peak Lookout can see north to Mount Hood, south to Crater Lake and Mt. McLaughlin and east to many prominent peaks in the Cascade Range. Snow drifts melt in June, welcoming the arrival of brilliant patches of wildflowers that splash color on the steep, rocky timbered hillsides. By October, vivid autumn color may be surprised with an early dusting of snow.

Large mammals such as elk, deer, black bear, and cougar, as well as the smaller residents like squirrels, fox, raccoons and bats, are supported by the areas diverse forest habitats.

Recreation:

Located in the heart of the Bohemia Mining District, the area is surrounded by rugged summits up to 6,000 feet in elevation that have and continue to attract gold seeking miners. The historic remains of Bohemia City can be viewed from Fairview Peak Lookout and from Bohemia Mountain trail. Musick Mine, one of the most productive gold mines in the district during the late 1800s and into the early 1900s, is a point of interest to history buffs and fortune seekers.

For hiking and sightseeing, the nearby Bohemia Mountain Hiking Trail leads up a steep grade to the rocky summit of Bohemia Mountain, the highest point on the Cottage Grove Ranger District. Just east of the summit along a ridgeline hikers are treated to dramatic views of the Cascade mountains.

Facilities:

The lookout cabin is a 15 x 15 room, set 53 feet above the ground. It is furnished with a full-size futon and twin bunks with mattresses. Inside amenities include a table with chairs, a propane heater, cook stove and oven and small refrigerator. Outside, a picnic table, campfire ring and vault toilet are provided. An area for pitching a tent is also on-site, although it is rocky.

There is no water or electricity available at the site. Guests must bring water necessary for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests must also bring a lantern or other light source, cooking utensils, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, toilet paper and garbage bags. Firewood may be available, but the supply cannot be guaranteed.

Nearby Attractions:

Visitors may want to take some time to visit nearby Crater Lake National Park for a glimpse into the areas fascinating geological and cultural history.