Flag Point Lookout

The numbers that decide it

Site-level detail from Recreation.gov, checked 2026-08-05. Where a field says “not published”, the agency has not published it — it does not mean zero. See it on Recreation.gov

Flag Point Lookout

Surrounded by Badger Creek Wilderness , Flag Point Lookout has some of the most scenic views around, boasting a spectacular panorama view of snow-covered treetops, alpine lakes and rugged Cascade peaks. It offers a unique, remote winter camping experience and also provides access to a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking and wildlife viewing, as well as winter sports. Staffed as a fire lookout during the summer from June 1 through October 31, Flag Point plays a key role in the detection of fires on the Barlow Ranger District and adjoining lands. The cabin is atop a 40-foot tower and is surrounded by a wooden catwalk. The 14 ft. x 14 ft. room is furnished with a small bed, a wood stove for heating, and a table and chairs. It has a propane cook stove and solar-powered lights. There is no water on-site. An outhouse with a vault toilet is located on the ground, as well as a shed stocked with firewood. A rope and pulley system is available to transport gear, as well as firewood, up and down the tower with ease. Guests will need to bring their own water for drinking, cooking and cleaning purposes, as well as their own sleeping bags/bedding, a flashlight or lantern for emergencies, first aid kit, washcloths and towels, dish soap and garbage bags. This is a "Pack it in, Pack it out" facility; guests will need to carry out all trash and clean the facility prior to leaving. Learn more about Leave No Trace ethics . History Flag Point Lookout sits at 5,650 ft. elevation on Flag Point Butte. The original lookout was built circa 1924. It was a 6 ft. x 6 ft. observation cabin and the staff person had to climb a 40 ft. timber pole to reach the platform. In 1932 the Forest Service built a standard L-4 style lookout on a 30 ft. pole frame tower to replace the earlier structure. Some reconstruction occurred in 1955. The present lookout is a 15 ft. x 15 ft. "R-6 Flat Top" style built in 1973.

Before you go

Scenic drives that pass close

• Mount Hood5 mi
• Historic Columbia River24 mi
• JCT CROSSING OF GIBBONS CREEK VIC WASHOUGAL TO JCT PLYMOUTH INDUSTRIAL RD25 mi
• JCT SR 14 VIC BINGEN TO SKAMANIA COUNTY LINE27 mi
• JCT SR 14 VIC LYLE TO JCT SR 97 VIC GOLDENDALE27 mi