Oak Flat Lookout

Sequoia National Forest

Sequoia National Forest. Kern County, CA
Sequoia National Forest. Kern County, CA

Oak Flat Lookout

Sequoia National Forest


Oak Flat Lookout

Oak Flat Lookout stands among the Greenhorn Mountains in the Sequoia National Forest and Sequoia National Monument, about an hour from Bakersfield. The lookout provides wonderful panoramic views of the Kern River, the Kern River Valley and area mountains. The lookout was constructed in 1934 and used until the 1980s. Now it can be rented as a unique, 4-adult get-away for hearty adventurers. 4-wheel vehicles are needed to reach the base of the tower. The lookout has no electricty. Supplies such as water, food, and bedding must be carried up 40 steps or hauled up using their small basket pulley system.

Cabin Features

The Oak Flat Lookout has a propane heater. The one-room lookout has 2 twin beds. In the kitchen area are a propane range with oven and sink with a drain. Cooking pots and utensils are provided. Illumination is from a propane light. Also provided are a bucket and cleaning supplies. A single vault toilet is found 100 yards from the lookout. An outdoor BBQ fire ring and picnic table are near the tower.

Nearby Activities

Popular activities at the lookout are bird watching and star gazing. Motorcycle trails are in the area.

Read full details about the lookout and check for any updates at Sequoia National Forest - Oak Flat Lookout and Recreation.gov - Oak Flat Lookout.

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Oak Flat Lookout Basics
Oak Flat Lookout Location: Off Rancheria Road, 15 miles northeast from its turnoff from Highway 178 (about 7 miles northwast of Bakersfield)
Elevation: 4,900 feet
Miles/Driving time from Gateway Cities: Bakersfield - 28 miles, 56 minutes
Oak Flat Lookout Season: Opens April 15
Max. Occupancy: 4 adults
Maximum Number Vehicles: 3
Pets: Pets allowed, but not large dogs
Operated by Sequoia National Forest, Kern River Ranger District
Kern River Ranger District: (760) 376-3781

Oak Flat Lookout Reservations
Reservation Window Oak Flat Lookout may be reserved from 2 days up to 6 months in advance of arrival date
Fees: $75 per night
Reservations: Oak Flat Lookout
2-night minimum, 3 nights on holiday weekends
Maximum Stay:
Check-in and Check-out Times Check-in 3:00 PM
Check-out 12:00 PM

Oak Flat Lookout Amenities
Lookout Exterior: Picnic table, fire ring/BBQ, vault toilet
Cabin Interior: Sleeping: 2 twin beds
Kitchen: propane range/oven, sink with drain (no water), cooking pots and utensils
Other: propane lights, cleaning supplies, bucket, basket pulley system
NOT included: Visitors need to bring bedding (sleeping bags or linens and blankets), pillows, towels, dish towels, matches, food containers, toilet paper, paper towels, flashlight, outdoor chairs, garbage bags.
Showers: No
Attractions near Oak Flat Lookout: Drive 46 miles to Lake Isabella for boating, water skiing, and fishing.



Oak Flat Lookout map, Sequoia National Forest, CA


Recreation Opportunities Near Lake Isabella


Key Oak Flat Lookout Regulations

  1. To avoid problems with bears, do not leave food outside unattended.
  2. Pets are allowed, but large dogs are not recommended on the steep staircase.
  3. Fires are only permitted in provided fire rings. 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 afer themselves and prepare the hut for the next group. Cleaning supplies are in the mudroom. Take trash with you.

Other Forest Service Cabins

Sequoia National Forest

Northern Sequoia National Forest

Eldorado National Foret