5 tips for renting your Oregon Fire lookout or remote cabin
What could be more thrilling than renting a fire lookout or remote wilderness cabin? Just imagine the crisp sunrise, miles of views and all that wildlife. Well, our family probably could have done with a little less wildlife at the Timber Butte Cabin. But staying at such a remote and highly sought after experience is thrilling nonetheless. Here are our 5 tips for renting a fire lookout or remote cabin in Oregon:
Plan ahead. Fire lookouts and remote cabins can be booked six months in advance through Recreation.gov - but good luck to you. These popular rentals are notoriously difficult to land. So be patient, flexible and keep an eye out for cancelations.
Fire lookouts and cabins are remote. This may sound like the most amazing aspect of the whole thing, but it also means navigating poorly marked and maintained forest service roads where cell service is unlikely. Getting lost or injured on a forest service road without cell service can have serious consequences. Make sure someone knows your planned route. Carry extra supplies and a first aid kit in your car. And consider investing in a satellite communicator (I use the Garmin inReach Mini). Do not rely on Google Maps.
Be mindful of wildlife. Black bears and cougars are common in Oregon’s forests. Generally, these animals would prefer not to meet you but they can be attracted to your site by food or startled when you’re out hiking. Read, understand and make sure your kids understand the information provided by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (black bear, cougar). Use bear bells when hiking in areas with bears and cougars. And consider carrying and knowing how to use bear mace (I carry Counter Assault Bear Deterrent).
Expect to be self-sufficient. This means bringing your own water, food, fuel, bedding, toilet paper - basically everything that you will need to live minus the structure. Double check your packing and always bring a little more than you think you will need. Some fire outlooks and remote cabins have an outhouse. Not all structures do, so you may need to bring a trowel.
Summer is wildfire season in Oregon. Be aware of fire restrictions in the area and know that just because there is a fire ring doesn’t mean you should or can legally have a fire. Consider carrying a fire extinguisher in your car and be informed about fire prevention and restrictions in Oregon.
As always, be sure to check local resources for weather, road conditions and COVID-19 related closures when planning your trip. And don’t forget to post your photos to #lifelivedoregonstyle on Instagram. We’ll see you out there!