Cobb Mountain Fire Lookout stands as one of Northern California’s active fire detection stations, staffed during fire season from a 60-foot steel tower. The panoramic views stretch across Clear Lake to the south, Mount Konocti to the west, and the rugged Mayacamas range stretching toward Napa County. The tower itself dates back to the 1930s, rebuilt several times but maintaining its critical role in early fire detection for this fire-prone region.
Access requires a steep, winding drive up Bottle Rock Road from Highway 175, with the final stretch on Forest Service roads that can be rough and dusty. The lookout is typically staffed May through October when fire danger is highest. No camping is permitted near the tower, but several dispersed sites exist lower on the mountain along the access roads.
Active fire tower overlooking Clear Lake
Place Details
| Type | Fire Lookout |
|---|---|
| Street address | 15801 Main Street, Middletown, California 95461 Get directions → |
| Elevation (ft) | 4722 ft |
| Nearest town | Middletown, California |
| Miles from pavement | 8.5 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | High-clearance 2WD |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | Partial |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |