Cabin and Lookout Rental Directory Information

2006 Recreational Cabin and Lookout Rental Directory

One of the unique recreation experiences we have here is the opportunity to rent some of our historic fire lookout towers and backcountry cabins. These rustic cabins and lookouts are often located in remote, yet spectacular settings. We invite you to experience one of this region's "hidden treasures!"

Enjoy your stay!

How to rent a cabin or lookout

Recreation cabins and lookouts in the National Forests of the Northern Region are rented on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservations are made through the National Recreation Reservation System (NRRS). The daily rental rate for each cabin or lookout is listed in the directory. Reservations can be made with a major credit card. You can either:

Check on availability and reserve over the Internet:

Or, check availability and reserve toll-free over the phone
at 1 (877) 444-6777, or International (518) 885-3639:

There is a $9.00 reservation fee (changes to $10.00 in October 2007) in addition to the cabin or lookout rental fee. You can cancel or change your reservation by calling the NRRS at the same toll-free number (an additional fee is charged). If you cancel within 14 days of your scheduled arrival date, you will be charged a $10.00 service fee for late cancellation and forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows, early departures, or cancellations after the scheduled arrival date are not entitled to a refund.

If you are using the Recreation.gov site, you can go to the cabin or lookout of your choice, click on the Book Now button (you can always back out without booking a reservation) and fill in the blanks to check the cabin's availability on your preferred dates.

Cabin reservations may be made up to 180 days in advance of the first day of requested use. Once payment is made, reservations are verified with a confirmation letter. The confirmation letter will have a confirmation number, plus other important information you will need. You must have your confirmation letter with you during your stay.

Two popular cabins (Red Ives on the St. Joe Ranger District, Idaho Panhandle National Forest and the Hogback Cabin on the Missoula Ranger District, Lolo National Forest) will not be on the National Reservation System this year and instead will be available through local lotteries. Contact the local ranger district office for more information.

If you have any questions, or need more information to help with trip planning, feel free to contact the Ranger District office listed for the cabin or lookout you are interested in. Additionally, some cabins or lookouts may be available on a “last minute, walk-in” basis (i.e., 1-4 days prior to a requested date). You can contact the local Ranger District office to check on availability and, if available, reserve directly with that local office.

Note: Unauthorized use of these cabins and lookouts is a violation of both State and Federal laws and regulations. Violators are subject to a fine of up to $5000 and/or 6 months imprisonment. Violations should be reported immediately to a Forest Service officer. Be certain to have your confirmation letter with you while using the cabin or lookout.

Potential Risks

Travel on the National Forests and use of rustic cabins and lookouts involves a degree of risk. Recreationists must assume the responsibility to obtain knowledge and skills necessary to protect themselves and members of their party from injury and illness.

Parents are strongly discouraged from bringing children under 12 years of age to Lookout Towers. Persons afraid of heights, or lacking physical strength, should also avoid climbing Lookout Towers. Prior to the trip, permit holders are advised to contact the local Ranger District for current conditions. Weather, snow conditions, personal physical skill and condition along with other factors can influence travel time and difficulty.

Please review our Outdoor Safety pages before traveling. Thank you!

Facilities

Cabins and lookouts available through the rental program are rustic and primitive in nature. Most of these cabins are historic guard stations or work centers located in remote areas that are occasionally used to house Forest Service employees. As the need for these cabins declines, they are being made available to the general public.

With the exception of a few cabins, do not expect the modern conveniences that we all are so accustomed to enjoying. It is suggested that an inquiry be made to the Ranger District that has administrative responsibility for the cabins as to what is and what is not furnished and disabled access information. Some facilities are wheel-chair accessible. Based on the information received, you can then plan your needs. Occasionally, cabins may require unforeseen maintenance. Rentals during such times may need to be rescheduled.

Cabins are generally equipped with the bare basics, including a table, chairs, wood stove and bunks (most with mattresses, some without). Bedding is not furnished. Cooking utensils are available at some cabins but not all of them. Electricity and piped-in water are generally NOT available. It may be necessary to bring safe drinking water or be prepared to chemically treat or boil drinking water. At some cabins, you will need to find and cut your own firewood. Expect to use outdoor toilets. Telephones are not available. Cell-phone coverage does not exist at most sites. some cabins provide lanterns, but it is advised to bring flashlights for night lighting. Bring a household disinfectant to clean surfaces.

Before leaving, users are requested to: burn all combustible waste materials; make sure fires in stoves are out; pack out all garbage and empty bottles or cans; clean the cabin; leave a supply of firewood and return the key.

USDA Forest Service - Northern Region
Last Modified: Thursday, 10 April 2008 at 12:27:11 EDT