About
Perched atop the edge of a rocky cliff in the Umpqua National Forest, Acker Rock Lookout offers visitors a unique lodging experience with spectacular panoramic views of the South Umpqua watershed in southwest Oregon. Still used in active fire detection today, the lookout was placed on the rocky cliff via helicopter in the 1960’s. Before the advent of airplane surveillance for fire detection, there were more than a dozen lookouts on the Tiller Ranger District. Today Acker Rock and Pickett Butte are the only remaining lookouts on the District. The lookout tower is generally available for reservation from August 1st thru November 15th (depending on snow). High clearance all-terrain vehicles are recommended for travel to this site, and guests must bring several of their own amenities. The lookout is not rented during the winter months due to wind and snow weight restrictions on the building. Vehicle access past the road gate is permitted with your reservation, but other users may hike from the gate to the lookout during your stay. Placing personal locks on the gate is not permitted as agency personnel may need to access the site. Visitors should keep in mind everything must be packed in via a moderately steep 0.5-mile hike along a forested trail to reach the lookout. Maximum capacity of the tower is four people at any time. There is no water at the site. Please do not let pets roam freely, as they may endanger wildlife and plants. Visitors must pack out all trash. Please be respectful of other visitors, and be aware that leaving trash out can attract rodents and other animals. There is a transfer station off County Road 46 at milepost 4.5, but it is only open on Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and a fee of $3.00 per can (up to 35 gallons) is charged. The lookout tower is a no-smoking facility.
Don’t Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.
Essentials
- BBQ
- Fire Pit
- Picnic Table
- Propane
- Restroom