Acker Rock Lookout

Umpqua National Forest

Forest, Oregon
Forest, Oregon

Acker Rock Lookout

Umpqua National Forest


Acker Rock Lookout

Acker Rock Lookout is perched on the edge of a cliff at the summit of 4,100-foot Acker Rock, deep in the Umpqua National Forest. Part of the lookout projects out from the ridge, providing visitors with magnificent views of the South Umpqua River Valley, miles of forested mountains, and, on a clear day, as far away as Crater Lake. Acker Rock is a popular rock-climbing destination. Guests at the lookout, however, usually prefer to explore the area on trails or by car. Good fishing can be found within 10 miles of the lookout. Stargazing, wildlife viewing, and birding are also popular.

High clearance, all-terrain vehicles are recommended.

Acker Rock Lookout, Umpqua National Forest, Oregon

Acker Rock Lookout Features

The 12 x 12-foot lookout cabin has a bed for two and a small table and chair. A propane heater, lanterns, stove, oven, and refrigerator make life in the lookout comfortable. Propane is provided. There is no water, however, so visitors must transport it up a quarter-trail from the parking area.

Outside are a composting toilet and space for tent camping.

What Guests Need to Bring

Guests need to bring their own water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. They also must supply for own bedding or sleeping bags, sleeping pads, pillows, flashlights, toilet paper, towels, matches, cookware and utensils, and garbage bags. Guests must clean the cabin upon departure and take everything, including garbage and food.

Read full details and check for any updates: Willamette National Forest: Acker Rock Lookout and Recreation.gov - Acker Rock Lookout

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Acker Rock Lookout Basics
Acker Rock Lookout Location: From Canyonville take OR Highway 227 east 23 miles to Tiller. From there follow the directions on the Forest Service website: Acker Rock Lookout. The Forest Service cautions, "please be advised that GPS units can, and have, sent guests down the wrong roads to access the Lookout."
Elevation: 4,000 feet
Nearby Gateway Cities: Tiller - 27 miles
Canyonville - 50 miles
Medford - 77 miles
Open - Closed: Open August through mid-November
Max. People : 4
Maximum Number of Vehicles: 2
Pets: Pets are allowed
Operated by Umpqua National Forest
Information Tiller Ranger District: (541) 825-3100
Thursdays and Fridays, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Forest Supervisor's Office, Roseburg: (541) 440-4930

Acker Rock Lookout Reservations
Reservations Available Acker Rock Lookout reservations are available from 2 days up to 6 months in advance of arrival date.
Wheelchair accessible sites: None
Maximum length of stay: 4 nights
Lookout Rental Fees: $40 per night
Lookout Reservations: Acker Rock Lookout Reservations
Check-in, check-out: Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out: 11:00 AM

Acker Rock Lookout Amenities
Lookout Interior: bed for two and a small table and chair, propane heater, lanterns, stove, oven, and refrigerator. Propane is provided.
Lookout Exterior: Composting toilet, space for tent camping.
NOT included: Visitors need to bring food, water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, bedding or sleeping bags, sleeping pads, pillows, flashlights, toilet paper, towels, matches, cookware and utensils, and garbage bags.
Attractions near Acker Rock Lookout:



Acker Rock Lookout  map, Umpqua National Forest, Oregon

Lookout Access and Forest Service Advice

The gate combination will be included with the reservation confirmation letter.

"The lock at the gate can be difficult to open. Recommend bringing a flashlight and a raincoat as you may need to lay on the ground under the cover to see the combination. If the lock doesn't open when the combination is set right, squeeze it closed and it will pop open. Also be aware that the hike up to the lookout from the parking area is fairly steep. Plan accordingly to transport sleeping gear and such up the hill.

"The facility uses liquid propane for heat, cooking and lights and a small refrigerator. Please read the instructions carefully before using any of these appliances. Familiarize yourself with the locations of the shutoff valves in case of a gas leak emergency. The main shutoff on the outside south wall may be closed on arrival.

"Also take note that during active lightning storms, a fire person may utilize the deck on the lookout in the afternoon to watch for lightning strikes. If this occurs and you feel inconvenienced by their presence, we will do our best to accommodate you with reimbursement of fees."

Advice from Previous Visitors

Bed is between a Queen and a full and is decently comfy.
Bring warm clothing in case heater is not working.

South Umpqua River Area
Attractions and Activities

  • Fish in the South Umpqua River at 3 C Rock Campground. Three C Rock is one of the rare spots where fishing is allowed on the South Umpqua River. Anglers should check Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations
  • Seek out the many local hiking trails.
  • Find some great OHV trail riding on Beaver Creek Trail, Bunchgrass Meadows Trail, Coffin Butte Trail, and Elk Horn Trail
  • Head out mountain biking on Beaver Creek Trail, Cow Creek Trail, Devil's Flat Trail, Maranath Trail, and others
  • Experienced rock climbers, test your skills at Acker Rock or Trail Creek.
  • From Tiller Ranger Station, walk to the historic 1920's era "cupola style" fire lookout.
  • Take the scenic drive along the Myrtle Creek-Canyonville Tour Route.
  • Go swimming at Deer Lick Falls when water levels are safe.

Key Acker Rock Lookout Regulations and Information

  1. Only 4 people are allowed at Acker Rock Lookout at a time.
  2. Please do not let pets roam freely, as they may endanger wildlife and plants.
  3. Smoking is not allowed in the lookout.
  4. Placing personal locks on the gate is not permitted as agency personnel may need to access the site.
  5. Do not throw trash, hygiene products, or hand wipes in the composting toilet. Human waste and small amounts of toilet paper only.
  6. The cabin must be thoroughly cleaned before departure. Renters are advised to bring cleaning supplies to clean interior surfaces upon arrival and departure. Pack out all food and garbage.