Bear Basin Lookout And Cabin
On a high, narrow mountain ridge at 5,280 feet, Bear Basin Lookout and Pierson Cabin offer visitors an awe-inspiring experience and a quiet haven away from crowds. Excellent views of the Siskiyou Wilderness to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west are why visitors love staying in the heart of the Six Rivers National Forest of northern California.
The current lookout building was previously situated at Camp Six, where it was used to spot forest fires. That structure was moved from Camp Six to Bear Basin Butte in 1996. The original Bear Basin Butte lookout existed in the 1930s.
During the summer and early fall months (July 1 - September 30), the rental includes both the lookout tower and a modern 1930s-style cabin built in the 1990s.
This is a remote location. Access to the cabin is variable and the road is not maintained for winter use. High-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended, and guests are also advised to carry chains and a shovel. Guests should note that even during the summer, the paved portion of the road (South Fork Road) frequently has numerous rocks and debris. The last half mile of the access is on a steep gravel road. Quality tires and high-clearance vehicles are recommended. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
The lookout and cabin can accommodate up to eight guests, but up to 12 guests are permitted for an extra fee. The cabin has an entry room with a countertop suitable for organizing supplies and preparing food. Three double beds are provided (one of which is a bunk above the other) in the cabin and a futon in the lookout. The cabin also has a four-seat dining table, three chairs, a bench, a book case, and a wood-burning stove (firewood is provided).
Board games and various books may be available for use. A vault toilet, picnic tables and a campfire ring are outside. No water or electricity is available. Guests should bring plenty of water, food, bedding, flashlights and other basic camp gear (click here for more cabin details).
Need to Know
- This facility is located in a remote and wild area, far from any services; before making a reservation, become aware of weather and travel safety, especially if visiting during the fall, winter, or spring.
- Road and weather conditions are unpredictable. Always be prepared for changing conditions and carry a map, tire chains, and snow shovel. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.
- Access roads are steep and narrow; the last one mile to the cabin is gravel.
- If a low-elevation storm is predicted, be sure to park facing the vehicle downhill before reaching the snow zone. It is the responsibility of the cabin guest to arrange for towing if their vehicle gets stuck in snow.
- No electricity or water is available at either facility; guests should be prepared to bring their own water.
- The rental accommodates eight guests; an additional fee of $5 per person per night is charged for additional guests, up to a maximum of 12 people. This additional fee is payable directly to the Forest Service at the time of key pickup.
- Access to cabin is by key; contact (707) 457-3131 during regular business hours (Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.) to arrange pickup at the Smith River Visitor Center in Gasquet, CA.
The lookout and cabin are closed on October 1st each year to protect the building from damaging winds. Weather is unpredictable, and in some cases, when a strong storm is predicted to arrive before October 1st, the lookout may close early. The Pierson Cabin will still be available. Please call the Smith River NRA Visitor Center for the most current information.
- All vehicles, including OHVs and snowmobiles, must remain on designated routes and obey all closure orders. A Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM) is available from the Smith River National Recreation Area Visitor Center or at http://www.fs.usda.gov/detailfull/srnf/maps-pubs/?cid=STELPRDB5080418&width=full. Always check the MVUM before traveling on routes where use is not clearly marked.
- Click here for more information on the Six Rivers National Forest
- In general, cancellation policies apply even if you find yourself unable to reach your destination! Again, it is your responsibility to arrange for your travel and safety!
- Don't Move Firewood: Please protect your National Forest by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of your western forest. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org.for further information.
Nearby Attractions
The Smith River National Recreation Area Visitor Center is about 21 miles, or roughly one hour by vehicle, from the lookout.
Doe Flat and Island Lake Trailheads, which access the Siskiyou Wilderness, are within three miles of the lookout.
Recreation
Bird watching is available, as well as great hiking opportunities in the nearby Siskiyou Wilderness. Please don't forget to pick up a Siskiyou Wilderness Map at your nearest Forest Service Visitor Center or local outdoor store before venturing into the wilderness. Horseback riding trails may be accessed nearby, and wildlife viewers may catch a glimpse of deer or bears, which make their home in the area.
Contact Information
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Smith River National Recreation Area US Forest Service P.O. Box 228 GASQUET CA 95543
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: 707-457-3131
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
Driving to Bear Basin Butte Lookout:
Take Highway 199 to milepost 24.85, ten miles east to Gasquet. Turn onto Little Jones Creek Road. Stay on the paved road (FS16/17N05 Jawbone Road) for 9.7 miles. Turn left on 16N02 and go .5 miles. Locked gate to lookout access road is on left.
Distance from Smith River NRA Visitor Center: 21.5 miles Driving time: approximately 1 hour
Directions from Smith River NRA Visitor Center, 10600 U.S. Highway 199, Gasquet, California 95543: Travel east on Hwy 199 10.6 miles (mile post 24.73) to Little Jones Creek Road (a.k.a. FS 16/17N05/Jawbone Rd). Follow signs to Bear Basin Lookout, staying on the paved road. About 5.8 miles up Jawbone you will have your first view of the lookout. At about 20.5 miles (10 miles on Jawbone), turn left onto 16N02 and continue to gate at 20.8, following sign to Bear Basin Lookout.
