Spruce Mtn Fire Lookout Tower
Medicine Bow-Routt Nfs & Thunder Basin Ng
Perched atop a forested mountain, Spruce Mountain Fire Lookout Tower offers visitors a unique lodging experience in Medicine Bow National Forest in southcentral Wyoming. The original fire lookout was constructed during the summer of 1938 by workers employed through the New Deal's Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). After thirty years of use, it was replaced with a taller, more structurally sound tower. The new 55-foot tall tower was used as a fire lookout until the 1990s when it was renovated and opened to the public for overnight rental in 1997.
The lookout is typically open from June through September. Guests can drive directly to the lookout most of the season. Several amenities are provided, but guests should be prepared to pack in some of their own supplies and gear for a comfortable stay. Please be aware during the month of June snow drifts may prevent you from driving directly to the tower and you may need to pack items in from a longer distance. For more information on conditions please call the Laramie Ranger District Office prior to arivial at 307-745-2300
The lookout cabin is furnished with two single beds with mattresses and can accommodate up to two guests. Inside amenities include a table with chairs, cookware, dishes, utensils, cleaning supplies, a propane heater, propane cook stove and oven and propane lights. An outhouse with pit toilet is provided, and a campfire ring is located at the base of the lookout. Firewood is provided. Additional camping is allowed on-site, though the area is rocky. A hoist (pulley and rope) is available to transport gear to the tower cabin. There is no water or electricity available at the site. Guests must bring enough water for drinking, cooking and washing. Other items to bring include sleeping bags, flashlights or lanterns, towels, dish soap, matches, toilet paper, a first aid kit and garbage bags. All food and trash must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.
Need to Know
Water and electricity are not available at this facility. A manual for operating lights and stove available in the lookout tower
Please call the Laramie Ranger District office at (307) 745-2300 prior to your stay to check on any restrictions or conditions, such as fire or road closures, weather or storms that may affect the quality of your visit. Please be aware that the weather does vary, so check local weather and road conditions prior to arrival as they are susceptible to frequent changes. The Forest Service office is not open evenings, weekends, or holidays.
Maximum of 2 persons, including at least one adult over 21 allowed in tower. Guests visit the tower at their own risk; safety rules must be followed
- Additional camping is allowed on the site, with a total of 10 occupants at the site
- The cabin is a no-smoking facility
- No alcohol, smoking, drugs, fireworks or firearms in or around the tower
- Please clean cabin upon departure
- Saddle and pack stock must be kept at least 500 feet from the base of the tower; hay brought must be certified weed-free
Facility available by reservation only; no first come-first served stays available
- Learn more about Medicine Bow-Routt National Forests
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing organisms by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The lookout offers panoramic views that include Medicine Bow Peak, Rob Roy Reservoir, Jelm Mountain and the southern end of the Snowy Range. Snowdrifts melt in June, welcoming the arrival of wildflowers that splash color on the rocky, timbered hillsides. Wildlife species such as elk, deer, black bears, cougars, squirrels, foxes and bats are supported by the area's diverse forest habitats. At an elevation of 10,003 feet, guests should be prepared for high altitude conditions. Summertime temperatures average 70 degrees fahrenheit, but can drop as low as 30 degrees at night or during thunderstorms.
Recreation
The area around the lookout offers opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and hunting. The lookout is also ideal for guests who simply want to relax and enjoy picnics, campfires and stargazing at night. Rob Roy Reservoir is a six mile drive from the lookout, offering opportunities for fishing, boating and water skiing. Gold panning is a popular activity in Douglas Creek, which is connected to the reservoir.
Changes & Cancellations
Refunds for cancellations may be processed on a case-by-case basis. There are no refunds for reservation processing fees. Please be aware of changes in weather and road conditions prior to arrival and plan accordingly.
Contact Information
Mailing
Laramie Ranger District 2468 Jackson Street ATTN: Recreation Program LARAMIE WY 82070
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 307-745-2300
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Laramie, Wyoming, take Highway 130 west toward Centennial, Wyoming. Turn south on Highway 11 through Albany, Wyoming. Spruce Mountain Fire Lookout Tower is located 7 miles west of Albany on Forest Service Road 500, High clearance vehicles are advised for accessing the Tower.
The road (Forest Service Road 500) to this lookout may have logging operations during daylight hours during your stay. Please read and respect the signs posted at the entrance road for further instructions upon entering this site. If you have questions, call the Medicine Bow National Forest, Laramie District Office during the week at (307) 745-2300.
