Cougar Crossing Campground
3.9119 reviews: null
Cougar Crossing Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly fee for a standard non-electric site is $18. Additional reservation service fees apply ($8 online, $9 through the contact center, and $3 in person).
About this campground
Hidden within the emerald embrace of Oregon's towering conifers, Cougar Crossing Campground offers an intimate escape where the South Fork of the McKenzie River whispers through the trees. This peaceful retreat, tucked away from the crowds, serves as your gateway to pristine wilderness adventures. Here, morning mist rises from Cougar Reservoir while ancient forest paths lead to the legendary Terwilliger Hot Springs, creating a perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude and natural wonder.
The campground supports both RV and tent camping with 11 individual sites. Some sites are noted for being close together, which may limit privacy. Primitive camping is implied by the lack of modern facilities such as potable water or hookups.
Historical SignificanceJust a forest path away lies the storied Terwilliger Hot Springs, where generations of travelers have soaked their weary bones in nature's own thermal baths. These legendary pools carry tales of counterculture gatherings, wilderness seekers, and the timeless human desire to connect with the earth's healing waters. The springs remain a pilgrimage site for those who understand that some of life's best experiences require a little effort to reach.
Weather and SeasonsThe Pacific Northwest's moody climate paints Cougar Crossing with dramatic seasonal brushstrokes. Winter arrives with determination, bringing heavy rains that drum on tent flies and temperatures that hover between a crisp 33°F and 46°F. Early season visitors should pack their rain gear and warm layers, as moderate winds sweep through the forest canopy, reminding everyone that nature rules this domain. The reward for weathering these elements? A landscape transformed by mist and rain into something magical.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Douglas firs and western hemlocks create a living cathedral around Cougar Crossing, their branches filtering sunlight into gentle, dancing patterns on the forest floor. The South Fork of the McKenzie River curves gracefully past the campground, its clear waters reflecting the verdant canopy above. Cougar Reservoir stretches out like a mountain mirror, offering ever-changing vistas as weather and light play across its surface. This is a landscape that invites contemplation, where every view tells the ancient story of water, stone, and timber.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Willamette National Forest, Cougar Crossing sits at the intersection of water and wilderness. The campground occupies a special pocket where the South Fork of the McKenzie River meets Cougar Reservoir, creating a unique ecosystem shaped by both flowing and still waters. This corner of the Cascade foothills showcases the region's signature dense coniferous forests, where volcanic soils nurture giants that have stood sentinel for centuries.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility details are not specifically mentioned in official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as being spacious with room for multiple tents per site. Some reviews mentioned difficulty accessing certain sites due to blackberries or muddy conditions.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews provide mixed feedback on privacy. Some sites, like #2, #3, and #12, offer privacy and shade, while others, like sites #1 and #6, lack shade or are close together, reducing privacy.
Total Campsites11 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #1 and #6 have minimal shade and #6 has blackberries making accessibility difficult. Sites #2, #3, and #12 are praised for their privacy and shade.
Best CampsitesSite #2, #3, and #12 are recommended for their shade in hot weather and quietness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout11 sites with gravel interior roads and spurs. Sites are close together, leading to limited privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, reservable from June 24th through December 19th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made before check-in, with a $10 cancellation fee and possible forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled late. Changes outside original reservation dates incur a $10 change fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to a range of recreational activities, including hiking, lake recreation, and visiting nearby hot springs. The nearby Three Sisters Wilderness and Cougar Reservoir provide opportunities for outdoor adventure. The primitive boat launch across the campground is usable when the reservoir is high.
Hiking
Hiking trails nearby include the Three Sisters Wilderness, French Pete Trail, Box Canyon Trail, and Indian Ridge Lookout. These trails offer diverse opportunities for outdoor exploration.Fishing
While fishing is possible, one reviewer noted that 'bank fishing was impossible at this site' due to accessibility issues.Boating
There is a primitive boat launch available for use when the reservoir water level is high, providing opportunities for lake recreation and boating.Winter Activities
Winter camping at Cougar Crossing is possible, but road conditions may be challenging due to snow and ice.Water Sports
No dedicated water sports facilities, but the proximity to Cougar Reservoir and South Fork McKenzie River offers opportunities for kayaking, swimming, or other water-based activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings. Firewood is available for sale.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential road access issues due to poor maintenance and winter conditions, bear activity requiring food to be stored properly.
Active alertsRoad closures have been reported by user reviews.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st to December 31st.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are available within the campground, but no details are provided regarding recycling.
Proximity to water featuresLocated beside the South Fork of the McKenzie River and Cougar Reservoir, with creek and river access and a primitive boat launch available when the reservoir level is high.
Common complaintsTrash left behind by previous visitors, lack of privacy at some sites, and road noise. Some reviews indicated campers' disruptive behavior.
HostThe campground host has been described as helpful by users.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Blue River, OR, travel 4 miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Road 19). Proceed south on Aufderheide Drive, taking a right at the Y and climbing to the top of Cougar Reservoir (approximately 4.5 miles). Continue on Aufderheide Drive south 5 miles to find Cougar Crossing Campground where the South Fork of the McKenzie River pours into Cougar Reservoir.
Forest Service Rd 19 is not maintained for snow and ice in the winter, which may pose significant challenges for access. The road has been described as being in poor condition, with potholes and muddy, slick stretches, making higher clearance vehicles advisable.Nearby places
Blue River (10 miles away)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
3.9
19 reviews
Cougar Crossing Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Cougar Crossing Campground receives mixed reviews, with an average sentiment of 3.86 overall and 3.52 specifically for campgrounds. Positive feedback highlights the serene environment, proximity to hiking trails and hot springs, and spacious campsites. However, complaints include littering, road noise, and occasional difficulties with road access.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the location's proximity to Cougar Reservoir and Terwilliger Hot Springs, describing it as 'serene and beautiful' and a 'fantastic sight to behold.' Vault toilets are noted as being...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include road closures and poor road conditions leading to the site, littering by previous campers, and reports of noise from other campers. Some sites lack shade, and occasional...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring plenty of water for drinking and cooking as there is no potable water on-site. High-clearance vehicles are recommended due to road conditions. Early arrival is advised to secure the most...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is accessible year-round, but reviewers noted that winter visits might be challenging due to road conditions. Summer is the most popular time to visit, with shaded sites being...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'The road leading to the campground is in very poor condition with many large potholes.' (Anachronic X)
- 'Loved my stay here and will be returning in the future.' (Anachronic X)
- 'Bathrooms are...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Sites #2, #3, and #12 are praised for shade and privacy.
- Sites #1 and #6 are noted to have little to no shade.
- Site #3 reportedly had issues with homeless encampments occupying the site.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific details about pet-friendly amenities are mentioned.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025