federalfederal

SARDINE PEAK LOOKOUT

federal · Sierraville, CA

DirectionsCall
  • dump station12 mi
  • fuel station9.8 mi

Forest Service · Data Source: Recreation.gov

About

Overview Sardine Peak is a forest fire lookout tower that was constructed in 1935 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It is a three story enclosed tower with external stairs. Presently the top room or observation cab is the only rentable space. Sardine sits at an elevation of 8,138 feet in the Eastern Sierra Nevada Mountains of Tahoe National Forest, approximately 20 miles from Truckee, California. The lookout does not have electricity, water or garbage service. It does have a propane tank to operate propane-powered appliances. Recreation Hiking, mountain biking and off road vehicle use are popular around this lookout. Stampede and Boca Reservoirs are nearby for fishing, boating and swimming. Facilities The interior of the cab is 14 feet long and 14 feet wide and contains two twin beds, a dry sink, a table and four chairs, two propane lights, a propane cast iron heat stove and a propane stove/oven for cooking. A limited assortment of cooking utensils, pots and pans are provided. There is an accessible vault toilet, a picnic table and fire ring are located outside below the lookout. Firewood is not provided. Visitors need to bring their own bedding, toilet paper and other personal items. Natural Features The lookout tower sits on a mountain top with spectacular views of Stampede Reservoir, Boca Reservoir, Sardine Valley, Independence Lake, the top of the Sierra Buttes and western Nevada. Nearby Attractions Kyburz Flat Interpretive Area, The Boca Townsite Interpretive Area, and a mountain bike loop within Sardine Valley are all nearby. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (530) 430-8912.

Around this stay

Nearest surrounding services and recreation within ~25 mi — not on-site amenities.

  • dump station

    Reno KOA Journey

    12 mi
  • fuel station

    White's Sierra Station

    9.8 mi
  • propane

    7-Eleven

    15 mi
  • grocery

    Leonard's Grocery

    9.8 mi
  • potable water

    Potable water

    15 mi
  • trailhead

    Little Truckee Summit Staging Area

    5.6 mi
  • attraction

    Campbell Hot Springs

    9.0 mi
  • recreation site

    Little Truckee

    4.6 mi

Contact & access

Source and verification

Last verified: 10/5/2026

See the Sources tab for provenance detail.