Campground Details - ACKER ROCK LOOKOUT, OR - ReserveAmerica

Overview

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, the lookout was placed on the rocky cliff via helicopter in the 1960s.

The lookout tower is available for reservations from July through October. High clearance vehicles are recommended for travel to this site, and guests must bring several of their own amenities.

Visitors should keep in mind that there is a moderately steep half-mile hike along a forested trail to get to the lookout.

Natural Features:

Unique volcanic and sedimentary rock outcroppings and dense conifer forests define the landscape, giving way to sub-alpine meadows and summer wildflowers in the higher elevations.

The translation of the word, "umpqua," meaning "thundering waters," defines the area. High mountain lakes, heart-stopping rapids, peaceful ponds and thundering waterfalls await visitors.

Diverse plant communities provide habitat for abundant wildlife ranging from hummingbird to black bear.

Learn more about bear safety.

Recreation:

Overlooking the Umpqua River and several of its tributaries, the lookout is a delightful setting for anglers, as these waters sustain populations of rainbow, cutthroat and brown trout.

Hiking, birding, and wildlife viewing are popular among guests. Seasonal changes envelope the area as snowmelt gives rise to spring flowers and vivid autumn colors welcome a landscape dusted with snow.

For a day trip, guests may enjoy a scenic drive along a portion of the 172-mile Rogue-Umpqua National Scenic Byway. Mountain and river scenery unfold along the highway, showcasing everything from rolling oak-covered hills and towering coniferous forests to roaring white water rapids and incised intercanyon lava flows.

Facilities:

The Acker Rock Lookout is equipped with one single bed, a heater, lanterns, a cooking stove with an oven and a refrigerator, all powered by propane. A composting toilet is located at the lookout site.

There is no water at Acker Rock Lookout. Visitors planning to stay overnight are advised to bring as much water as they will need for drinking, cooking and washing.

Guests must supply their own food, cooking utensils, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, towels, dish soap, matches, cooking gear, toilet paper and garbage bags.

Although propane lighting is available, bringing an additional light source is recommended.

Activities and Amenities

Within Facility
Bed(s) Climbing Composing Chemical Toilet Hiking Propane & Cooking Stove	Propane Heat Propane Lights Propane Stove Vault Toilet Wildlife Viewing
Within 10 Miles
Fishing

Know Before You Go

Maximum capacity of the tower is four people at any time
Please do not let pets roam freely, as they may endanger wildlife and plants
All garbage and food must be packed out
The lookout tower is a no-smoking facility
Learn more about Umpqua National Forest

Due to the spread of invasive insects, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect our forests by purchasing or collecting firewood at or near your camping destination and burning it on-site. Click here for more information.

Getting There:

GPS Info. (Latitude, Longitude):
43.05231, -122.64561
43°3'8"N, 122°38'44"W

From the Tiller Ranger Station, take county Road 46, which becomes South Umpqua Road 28, for 18.5 miles to Buckeye Creek Road 29. Follow for 7 miles to the junction with Road 2838, then continue for 1.5 miles to the -950 spur. Follow the spur for 1.5 miles to the trailhead. The Acker Rock Trail 1585 is a .4 mile moderate to steep hike. The -950 spur is closed with a locked gate.