Red Oak Fire Lookout
Photo · USFSThe place
Red Oak Fire Lookout is approximately 12 miles south of Cowen, West Virginia. It sits at an elevation of 3,704 feet. Guests enjoy the area for its magnificent views, wildlife viewing and historic background. The original Red Oak Fire Tower in Webster County was erected using Civilian Conservation Corps labor in 1934. It was a wooden framed structure with a wooden cab. In 1964 it was replaced by the current metal structure, which was an improved design of the time period. Like all of the fire towers on Forest, it was retired by the late 1970s. Keep reading
The tower still stands and is in good condition and is now used as a recreational opportunity. Recreation The site is an ideal location for birdwatching, hunting, gravel bike riding, and stargazing. Other activities that require a short driver are hiking and biking trails and fishing. Facilities The tower cab has lights and an electric outlet. There is a vault toilet onsite. The campsite has a 50 and 30 amp service for RVs. There are picnic tables, a combination fire ring/grill, and lantern post at the site. Natural Features The site is located in a portion of the Forest with active management. Timber activities provide wildlife with a diverse habitat. The Cranberry and Williams Rivers are nearby, providing fishing opportunities for both native and stocked trout. Nearby Attractions The towns of Cowen and Richwood have basic supplies and restaurants. The Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, located 20 miles from the site, has educational displays, nature programs, and a gift shop.
The sites · 1
| Loop | Site | Type | Max rig | Electric | ADA |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lookout | Red Oak Fire Lookout Tower | cabin electric | — | 50 amp |
Booking
Recreation.gov default: most campsites can be booked six months prior to arrival date. Most campgrounds go on sale at 7am PT / 8am MT / 10am ET, but not always; check the facility Seasons and Fees tab. Some locations also offer shorter supplemental booking windows.
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Your representative
This campground sits in WV-02. This member’s public-lands record →