How to camp in a wildfire lookout tower

If you want a million-dollar view for less than $100 a night, one option rises above the rest: camping in a wildfire lookout tower .

The big picture: The U.S. Forest Service rents dozens of its old, remote fire lookouts now that infrared tools and aircraft have replaced human eyes in most areas.

• The "cabins" are like mountain lighthouses, designed for 360-degree views from high peaks.

Driving the news: Some of the lookouts' fall and winter reservations open up Thursday, so hop online pronto if you want a chance to stay there.

Catch-up quick: Foresters built about 5,000 watch stations around the western states after massive wildfires in 1910 consumed about 20 million acres and killed more than 80 people in Idaho and Montana.

By the numbers: As of 2019, about 300 were still staffed , mostly by volunteers who regularly scan the landscape and sound the alarm as needed.

• About 75 retired lookouts are available to rent in California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon and Washington.
• Four to check out in Washington: Tyee Lookout , which sits at 6,654 feet in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest and is accessible only by all-wheel drive; Steliko Lookout ; Heybrook Lookout in Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest; and Clearwater Lookout Cabin in the Umatilla National Forest.

The fine print: Check the tower's page to learn about parking, guest capacity, cell service, electricity and water — and how you get up there.

• Some are built on the ground ; others are on rocks , in the air or at the top of a lot of stairs .
• Prices range from $ 30 to $ 100 per night.

Pro tips: Like many Recreation.gov reservations, the lookouts aren't easily searchable but you can explore the options , filtering for cabins and lookouts.

• It takes planning to secure space in some of these sought-after spots, so plan early and check often.