Black Butte's long history began in 1910 with a tree crow's nest tower and tent. About 1923 a D-6 cupola cabin was added, but due to its limited visibility, the crow's nest must still have been used. An 82' treated timber tower with 8x8' cab was constructed in 1934. In 1980, a log cabin was built for new living quarters. The 82' tower was condemned in the 1990's, with a replacement 65' treated timber tower with 10x10' cab built in 1995. All structures remained on the summit, making this one of the most unique on-site historic collections of lookouts anywhere. In December 2001, the condemned 1934 tower fell down under heavy snow. In 2014, the log cabin was condemned and subsequently burned in November 2016. A yurt is currently used for sleeping quarters. The cupola cabin is currently being restored. The site is listed on the National Historic Lookout Register.