ELKINS, W.Va., September 8, 2026 – The Red Oak Fire Lookout on the Gauley Ranger District of the Monongahela National Forest is now available to rent, offering visitors a chance to spend the night in a piece of West Virginia’s history.
The fire lookout sits at an elevation of 3,704 feet, offering guests magnificent views and easy access to wildlife watching, hunting and exploring the forest. About 12 miles south of Cowen, West Virginia in Webster County, the original Red Oak Fire Tower was erected by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934. It was a wooden framed structure with a wooden cab.
In 1964, it was replaced by the current metal structure. Like all the fire towers on the Monongahela National Forest, it was retired by the late 1970s.
This recreational overnight opportunity is made possible thanks to a community-driven restoration effort between the Forest Service, Appalachian Forest National Heritage Area, HistoriCorps, Preservation Alliance of West Virginia and funding through the Secure Rural Schools Act. Now, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay in the restored and refurbished fire tower cab or at the nearby campsite, making this longtime landmark an exciting new destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors have the option of staying inside the fire tower cab, which is furnished with two twin size cots, two folding chairs, a small table, lights and electric outlets, or staying at the campsite. The campsite has 50- and 30-amp service for RVs.
There are picnic tables, a combination fire ring/grill, and lantern post at the site. There is a vault toilet onsite, but no drinking water is available.
The site will be available for rent from now through November 30. The 2027 season availability dates will be April 15 through November 30.
For additional details and to make a reservation, please visit: Red Oak Fire Lookout, Monongahela National Forest – Recreation.gov.