Black Mountain Lookout

Plumas National Forest

Frenchamn Lake, Plumas National Forest, California
Frenchamn Lake, Plumas National Forest, California

Black Mountain Lookout

Plumas National Forest


Black Mountain Lookout

Black Mountain Lookout stands among the Diamond Mountains, south of Susanville and west of Honey Lake. The beautifully maintained lookout was erected in 1934 and remodeled by volunteers between 2008 and 2010. Views stretch from Honey Lake to Last Chance Creek. Frenchman Lake (shown above), with boating and fishing, is only a 30-minute drive to the south. The single-room lookout has sleeping space to 4 visitors, while another 4 may set up a tent outside. No water is available at this facility, so guests must bring their own water for drinking, cooking and washing.

Black Mountain Lookout, Plumas National Forest, CA

Black Mountain Lookout

Cabin Features

Black Mountain Lookout has 2 twin beds with mattresses, electric lights, stove/oven, refrigerator, dry sink, some kitchenware and utensils, table and chairs, and a heater. Outside is a picnic table and nearby is the vault toilet room.

Nearby Activities

Watch for wildlife such as deer, coyotes, bald eagles, and osprey. A 30-minute drive from the lookout is Frenchman Lake, popular for boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing. Star gazing at the lookout is amazing. Nearby are dirt roads great for mountain biking and hiking.

Read full details about the cabin and check for updates at Recreation.gov - Black Mountain Lookout and Plumas NF - Black Mountain Lookout.

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Black Mountain Lookout Basics
Black Mountain Lookout Location: 10 miles off Highway 395 near Milford. High clearance vehicles are recommended for the final dirt road leading up to the lookout.
Elevation: 7,060 feet
Miles/Driving time from Gateway Cities: Susanville - 32 miles, 54 minutes
Reno - 70 miles, 1:49
Sacramento - 180 miles, 4:10
Black Mountain Lookout Cabin Season: Memorial Day weekend through late October, depending on weather
Max. Occupancy: 8
Maximum Number Vehicles: 4
Pets: Yes
Operated by Plumas National Forest
Beckwourth Ranger District: (530) 836-2575

Black Mountain Lookout Reservations
Reservation Window Black Mountain Lookout may be reserved from 2 days up to 6 months in advance of arrival date
Fees: $60 per night
Reservations: Black Mountain Lookout
Maximum Stay: 14 days
Check-in and Check-out Times Check-in 2:00 PM
Check-out 1:00 PM

Black Mountain Lookout Amenities
Cabin Exterior: Picnic table, vault toilet room
Cabin Interior: Sleeping: 2 twin beds
Kitchen: stove/oven, refrigerator, dry sink, some kitchenware and utensils, table and chairs
Other: Vault toilet outside, picnic table
NOT included: Visitors need to bring bedding (sleeping bags or linens and blankets), water for drinking and cleaning, warm clothing (can get windy and cold), pillows, towels, dish towels, dish soap, food containers, toilet paper, flashlight, outdoor chairs, garbage bags.
Showers: No
Attractions near Black Mountain Lookout: Nearby are hiking trails, scenic cycling roads such as Sierra Valley Road Cycling, and mountain biking. A 20 mile drive leads to the wonderful Lakes Basin Recreation Area with many great lakes for kayaking and fishing, and scenic hiking trails. Drive north to Graeagle for restaurants, hiking, shopping, special events, and golf.



Black Mountain Lookout, Plumas National Forest, CA


Plumas National Forest
Attractions and Activities

Those who camp at Black Mountain Lookout are not far from the Plumas National Forest attractions.

  • Fish in Lake Davis, Antelope Lake, and Round Valley Reservoir.
  • Head out for some OHV excitement at Bucks Lake Recreation Area or Gold Lake.
  • Take your boat out to Lake Davis, Antelope Lake, or Lower Bucks Lake.
  • Sierra Valley Road Cycling
  • Spend the day at Plumas Eureka State Park.
  • Visit Black Mountain lookout for great views of Honey Lake and surrounding country.
  • Spend some days at Little Grass Valley Recreation Area and enjoy boating, waterskiing, sailing, and fishing.
  • Take a scenic drive through the Indian Valley Area north of Quincy.
  • Hike in the Bucks Lake Wilderness.
  • Hike portions of the famous Pacific Crest Trail.
  • Horseback ride in Deanes Valley or Lakes Basin.

Check-In Procedure

Entry to the cabin is by key; contact the Beckwourth Ranger District at (530) 836-2575 for the combination to the lock box and to check on any restrictions or conditions, such as fire or road closures, weather or storms that may affect the quality of your visit. The office is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Key Black Mountain Lookout Regulations

  1. To avoid problems with bears, do not leave food outside unattended. Keep the building and grounds clean to deter squirrel, mice, rats, bears, and other wildlife from area.
  2. No smoking is permitted inside the lookout.
  3. Inside there can be no open flames such as candles, backpacking or Coleman stoves, etc.
  4. Remove all food (even unopened cans) and garbage when you leave.
  5. Renters are expected to clean up after themselves and prepare the lookout for the next group. Cleaning supplies are provided. Take trash with you.

Other Forest Service Cabins

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