Campsite AtlasRed Oak Fire Lookout
Red Oak Fire Lookout is approximately 12 miles south of Cowen, West Virginia. It sits 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. It was a wooden framed structure with a wooden cab. In 1964 it was replaced by the current metal structure, which was an improved design of the time period. Like all of the fire towers on Forest, it was retired by the late 1970s. The tower still stands and is in good condition and is now used as a recreational opportunity. .
Campsites
| Cabins with electric | 1 |
| Total | 1 |
Amenities & rules
Fees: Fee is $100.00 per night and reservations must be made at Recreation.gov .
Compiled from site-level records; individual sites vary. Confirm on Recreation.gov or with the managing office.
Getting there
Approximately 12 miles from Cowen and 15 miles from Richwood, WV. From Cowen, go east on State Route 46 to Forest Road 101. Follow Forest Road 101 5 miles to the site. From Richwood travel east on State Route 39/55 to Forest Road 76, travel for 6 miles north to Forest Road 81. Follow Forest Road 81 for 6 miles to Forest Road 101.
Data source: Recreation.gov RIDB, retrieved August 30, 2026. The Campsite Atlas is an independent publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Recreation.gov or any federal agency. Always confirm critical details on the official Recreation.gov page before you travel.