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Lake Of The Woods Lookout
Nothing compares to the closeness to nature, grandness of views, and sheer romance of spending time on the top of a mountain in this historic gem of a Forest Service lookout. At an elevation of 3,419 feet, Lake of the Woods Lookout provides a sweeping panoramic view, with vistas to the Pacific Ocean, the Kalmiopsis and Wild Rogue Wildernesses, and the Wild and Scenic Illinois and Rogue River canyons.
The lookout, a one-room cabin with windows that provide 360-degree views, accommodates one to four people. It is equipped with a propane stove, lights, and is furnished with a table and two chairs, a double bed, foot stool, broom and fire extinguisher. Visitors should be prepared for a rustic camping experience, and will need to bring sufficient equipment, including bedding and cooking supplies. On site, adjacent to the lookout, are a picnic table and a fire pit for outdoor barbeques. (During periods of extreme fire danger there will be restrictions for outdoor burning). An outhouse is located near the lookout. No water is available on site; visitors must bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking and washing.
History
The lookout is located approximately 21 miles northeast of Gold Beach, Oregon. It was first located on Barklow Mountain on the Powers Ranger District. The R6 (Flat Roofed) cabin, originally a "ground house" (the lookout cabin was built on the ground, not on top of a tower), was flown by helicopter to the present location and placed on an eight-foot tower with a catwalk in 1974. Lake of the Woods Lookout was staffed during fire seasons from 1974 to 1996.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Reserve at www.recreation.gov |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | Reservations must be made through www.recreation.gov at least ten days in advance. The maximum length stay is five consecutive nights. |
| Fees: |
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| Open Season: | May (snow accumulation may limit availability) - Late October (snow accumulation may limit availability) |
| Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
| Closest Towns: |
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| Water: | None on site |
| Restroom: | Outhouse |
| Information Center: | Gold Beach Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From Gold Beach, Oregon, on the north end of the town , turn east off of US Highway 101 onto County Road 595 (Jerry's Flat Road). Travel 10 miles going east on County Road 595 which becomes Forest Road 33. Turn left at 10 miles on to Forest Road 3310, cross bridge and go 10 miles. Stay to the right at the fork and turn on Forest Road 3340. Stay on this road for approximately 8.5 miles. Turn left here onto Forest Road 141 - look for the gate in this 5 road junction. Lookout is 0.75 mile up Forest Road 141 spur. Caution! Road is rough.
General Notes:
- No smoking
- Pets are welcome
Amenities
- Outhouse
- Picnic Table
- Fire Pit
- Propane Heater
- There is sufficient room for one tent, but the ground is extremely rocky.
Map Location: Township 34 South, Range 12 West, Section 33
Storm Warning
Lightning storms are a part of the thrill of staying at a lookout, but they are also extremely dangerous. If a lightning storm should occur, visitors are urged to follow these safety rules to minimize the danger. Stay indoors or completely inside your car. If you are trapped outside during a lightning storm, move to lower ground and stay low to the ground. Do not stand under trees or other high objects. If you are in the lookout building, close the windows and doors. Lightning follows air currents. Do not touch anything metal. The Lookout has metal stairs and a metal walkway around the cabin. It is imperative you do not stand at these locations during storms.
During periods of intense summer storms a Forest Service Fire Officer may need to use the lookout for short periods of time to spot fires. If you spot a fire while at the lookout, report it to the Forest Service as soon as possible.
Activities
Cabin Rentals
Far away from city lights, gaze for hours at the brilliant night sky, searching for constellations, planets and the occasional meteor slashing the inky blackness. During the day, explore several old logging roads nearby, whether by foot or mountain bike. In the spring the Lake of the Woods, which is actually a fairly small shallow pond, is surrounded by wildflowers. Watch for birds and butterflies. As summer progresses, the lake fills in with tall reeds and grasses.
| Reservation Info | This site can be reserved by calling Toll Free 1-877-444-6777 (International 518-885-3639 or TDD 877-833-6777) or on-line at www.recreation.gov |
Day Hiking
Big Game Hunting
- Recreation sites are adjacent to a variety of hunting opportunities. Hunting/discharging a firearm is NOT allowed in or near recreation sites.
- Reference: 36CFR 261.10(d)
- See Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for hunting regulations.
Small Game Hunting
- Recreation sites are adjacent to a variety of hunting opportunities. Hunting/discharging a firearm is NOT allowed in or near recreation sites.
- Reference: 36CFR 261.10(d)
- See Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for hunting regulations.
Viewing Wildlife
Viewing Plants
Viewing Scenery
Location