Red Oak Fire Lookout

Red Oak Fire Lookout is approximately 12 miles south of Cowen, West Virginia, 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, a wooden framed structure with a wooden cab. In 1964 it was replaced by the current metal structure, an improved design of the time period. Like all of the fire towers on the Forest, it was retired by the late 1970s. The tower still stands, is in good condition, and is now used as a recreational opportunity. The site is an ideal location for birdwatching, hunting, gravel bike riding and stargazing. Hiking and biking trails and fishing are a short drive away. The tower cab has lights and an electric outlet. There is a vault toilet onsite, and the campsite has 50 and 30 amp service for RVs, picnic tables, a combination fire ring/grill and a lantern post. The site is in a portion of the Forest with active management, where timber activities provide wildlife with a diverse habitat. The Cranberry and Williams Rivers are nearby, with fishing for both native and stocked trout. The towns of Cowen and Richwood have basic supplies and restaurants, and the Cranberry Mountain Nature Center, 20 miles from the site, has educational displays, nature programs and a gift shop.