Fivemile Butte Lookout

Fivemile Butte Lookout Campground

Experience the majestic beauty of the Pacific Northwest at Fivemile Butte Lookout Campground, nestled in the stunning Mt. Hood National Forest of Oregon. This unique campground offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to stay in a rustic lookout tower that provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. Ideal for those seeking adventure and solitude, Fivemile Butte Lookout captivates visitors year-round with its diverse recreational activities.

Available Campsites

The campground features a single distinctive site:

Site 001: A cozy cabin situated at the top of a 40-foot tower, which includes a 14-by-14 room furnished with essential amenities.

Campsite Amenities

Fivemile Butte Lookout is equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable stay:

Furnishings: The cabin is furnished with a small bed, a wood stove for warmth, and a table with chairs.
Cooking Facilities: A propane cook stove is provided for meal preparation.
Solar-Powered Lights: Enjoy the benefits of sustainable lighting.
Firewood: Firewood is provided for indoor use only, with a stocked shed available on the premises.
Rope and Pulley System: Easily transport gear and firewood to and from the lookout using the convenient pulley system.

Natural Features

At an elevation of 4,627 feet, the lookout is surrounded by pristine forests filled with ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and western hemlock. Exploring the area reveals numerous creeks, riparian zones, and old growth pine forests that flourish with wildflowers during the warmer months. Wildlife sightings are common, including:

Deer
Elk
Coyotes
Cougars
Bears
A variety of birds such as wild turkeys, grouse, and blue jays

Recreation Opportunities

Fivemile Butte Lookout serves as a gateway to numerous recreational activities:

Summer Activities: Hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking along nearby trails.
Winter Sports: Ideal for skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling; the lookout becomes a hub for winter sports enthusiasts.
Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecology of the area provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation.

Access and Accessibility

Access to the lookout varies by season:

Winter Months: From early fall to late spring, the lookout can only be accessed via skiing, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing approximately 3 miles from the Billy Bob Sno-Park. A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking.
Summer Months: Guests can drive directly to the lookout, ensuring easier accessibility for outdoor activities.

Essential Information

While Fivemile Butte Lookout provides a remarkable camping experience, guests must be aware of the following:

Water Availability: Drinking water is not available at the site, so guests should bring their own.
Janitorial Services: This is a “Pack it in, Pack it out” facility, requiring guests to carry out all trash and clean the facility before leaving.
Winter Weather Conditions: Visitors should be prepared for extreme winter weather and must possess backcountry travel and survival skills.

Historical Significance

The lookout has a rich history, originally established in the 1920s. The site has seen several rebuilds, with the current structure being erected in 1957 following a prior tower’s destruction by heavy snow. This historical backdrop adds to the charm and allure of staying at the lookout.

Plan Your Visit

Ensure an unforgettable experience by planning ahead. Check for any current conditions or road closures before departure, and always confirm accessibility and weather updates. Fivemile Butte Lookout invites you to explore its captivating mountain vistas and the unique tranquility that comes with camping atop a rustic tower.