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Recreation Region: Swan Lake Ranger District

Mission Lookout Cabin

Current Conditions
For condition information, call the Swan Lake Ranger District at (406) 837-7500.

Like similar Forest Service Lookouts, the Mission site has experienced several face-lifts in its 75 year history as a fire detection tower. The existing structure built in 1959 consists of a 15' by 15' cabin with windows on all sides perched atop a 40 foot wooden tower. With a maximum group capacity of 2 adults and children, Mission Lookout is best suited for a couple or small family. The Tower is equipped with a small bed, 2 fold-up cots, a propane cooking stove and simple cooking utensils. An outhouse is located at ground level. Renters will need to bring bedding including pillows, food, firewood (a fire ring is located at the base of the tower), toiletries, water, and non- open flame light source.

Reservations

Make Reservations Here

For reservations and fee information, visit: Recreation.gov

General Information

Open May 15th - October 15th weather dependent

Overnight Use:
$45 per night

Rental has a propane stove, equipment for cooking, eating and cleaning. An outhouse is on site, as is a fire pit, no water supply. The maximum occupancy is four.

Swan Lake Ranger Station office

Address: 200 Ranger Station Road Bigfork, MT 59911
Phone: (406) 837-7500
Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00am - 4:30pm (Closed on federal holidays)

Getting There

Latitude / Longitude

Latitude: 47.89372101

Longitude: -113.8733152

Directions

From Swan Lake, travel south on Highway 83 for 3 miles. Turn west onto Porcupine Creek Road 10229 (mile-marker 68). After passing Forest Road 9714, turn right onto Forest Road 9803 (2.2 miles after leaving the state highway). Continue on Forest Road 9803 for 1.4 miles, to a gate.  The gate may be opened.  The tower and parking area are located just beyond the gate. If arriving at night, bring a flashlight in order to see the combination locks.

Facility and Amenity Information

Restrooms

Vault Toilet

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Last updated April 4, 2025