Overview

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.  The tower still stands and is in good condition and is now used as a recreational opportunity.  

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.

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.

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.

Important Notices

• Check Out time is 11:00 am and Check In time is 3:00 pm

• Walk-in use is not allowed; reservations must be made via the Recreation.gov website or call center prior to arrival

• There is a vault toilet onsite. No water available; campers must bring their own.

• All trash must be packed out.  Users may deposit trash at either Bishop Knob or Big Rock Campground on their way home. Please bring garbage bags; this is a 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' facility

• Entry is by combination lock at gate and one at the cabin; confirm combination on your confirmation letter prior to arrival.

• Tower cab is limited to 2 people and campsite is limited to 10 people for a total site limit of12 people and 4 vehicles.

• The 14-by-14 facility sits atop an 80-foot tower. It is equipped with two cots and two folding chairs to accommodate up to two adults. Renters must provide their own linens/sleeping bags and pillows

• The campsite at the base of the lookout tower has a modern vault toilet, 2-picnic tables, a fire ring, lantern post and a 30 and 50 amp RV hookup.

• The lookout is a 80-foot tower and guests must be prepared to climb and carry provisions up the steep stairway; due to the height of the tower, children under age 14 are discouraged. The climb to the tower can be strenuous for some.  The campsite at the base of the tower is available for those who may not be able to access the tower.

• No pets allowed inside the tower cab.  Thery are permitted at the campsite. If you bring a pet please clean up after them.

• Cell phone is unreliable unless you are close to town.

• No smoking is allowed inside the cab.  No candles or open flame light or heating source are permitted inside the cab.  A non-open flame source, such as a battery-powered lantern and/or electric space heater is suggested. 

• The tower cab has electric lights and an electric outlet.

• The tower cab, because of the historical nature, does not meet accessibility standards. The campsite amenities are accessible.

• Snow and ice are possible on the access road in the spring and fall. Please check the forecast prior to your arrival or call the Gauley Ranger District for a weather updates at (304) 846-2695. 

Available Activities

• Biking - Biking
• Fishing - Fishing
• Historic & Cultural Site - Historic & Cultural Site
• Mountain Biking - Mountain Biking
• Wilderness - Wilderness
• Scenic Drive - Scenic Drive
• Hunting - Hunting
• Hiking - Hiking
• Fire Lookouts/Cabins Overnight - Fire Lookouts/Cabins Overnight
• Camping - Camping
• Birding - Birding
• Berry Picking - Berry Picking

Directions

<p>Approximately 12 miles from Cowen and 15 miles from Richwood, WV.</p><p>From Cowen, go east on State Route 46 to Forest Road 101. Follow Forest Road 101 5 miles to the site.</p><p>From Richwood travel east on State Route 39/55 to Forest Road 76, travel for 6 miles north to Forest Road 81. Follow Forest Road 81 for 6 miles to Forest Road 101.</p><p></p>

Contact Information

Phone: 304-846-2695

Rental Options

Learn more about gear rental options for your trip