Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)
4.45124 reviewsCold Water Cove Campground, P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97048, USA
Quick Facts
3,100 ftPrice
$25 - $50/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
34 campsites
Season
Open from June 6 to ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
3,100 ftPrice
$25 - $50/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
34 campsites
Season
Open from June 6 to ...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)
$25.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $25 to $50 per night depending on site type and season. Additional fees include $9 for extra vehicles and $9 for day-use visitors.
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$50.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$75.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider(541) 967-3917
What Campers Say
4.45
Recommended
Based on 124 reviews
77 Google reviews
Most mentioned
cleanhikinglakesites
Some mention
reservation
"Cold Water Cove Campground receives mixed reviews from users. Many appreciate its scenic beauty, private campsites, and easy access to recreational activities. However, some complaints focus on the lack of cell service, issues with camp hosts, and occasional maintenance lapses."
Fees & Passes at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)
$25 - $50/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Premium Site
Best views or amenities
Stay Limit: Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. Maximum stay limit not explicitly defined in the source.
Cancellation: No refunds, modifications, cancellations, or other fee changes allowed for Scan and Pay payments.
Prices verified December 7, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Linn County Parks and Recreation website.
Best Time to Camp at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)
Cold Water Cove transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own magic to this mountain paradise. Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities, while evenings cool down invitingly for campfire gatherings under starlit skies. When winter blankets the area in deep snow, the campground slumbers beneath a frozen wonderland, temporarily inaccessible but preparing for spring's gentle awakening. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer perhaps the most rewarding experiences – mild temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking through awakening forests or witnessing autumn's golden transformation, while anglers find these months particularly productive for landing trophy catches.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: June 6 to October 12. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open from June 6 to October 12 during peak seasons. Closed from October 12 to May 15 except for out-of-season walk-in availability.
- Current Alerts: No current alerts mentioned.
About Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)
Nestled at the southern shore of Clear Lake, Cold Water Cove Campground beckons adventurers with its mesmerizing turquoise waters and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Here, where ancient lava fields meet pristine alpine waters, visitors discover a basecamp for unforgettable outdoor experiences. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear depths, paddling across the glassy surface, or exploring miles of scenic trails, this 34-site campground offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and essential amenities. With 31 single sites and 3 spacious double sites accommodating everything from cozy tents to 50-foot RVs, plus vault toilets, hand-pump water stations, and regular trash service, Cold Water Cove provides comfortable access to one of Oregon's most spectacular natural wonders.
Cold Water Cove Campground offers a variety of camping options, including sites for tents and RVs. The campground features both reservable and first-come, first-served (FCFS) sites, with 31 single-family sites and 3 double-family sites. All sites are non-electric, and no sites are directly on the shoreline.
Historical SignificanceClear Lake holds secrets beneath its crystalline surface that few places on Earth can match. These waters, which give birth to the mighty McKenzie River, preserve an underwater forest frozen in time – ancient trees standing exactly as they did when volcanic eruptions flooded this valley thousands of years ago. The surrounding landscape tells a dramatic story written in stone, where 3,000-year-old lava flows created this natural reservoir and forever changed the region's geography. This unique intersection of fire and water has created not just a recreational destination, but a living geological museum that continues to captivate scientists and visitors alike.
Weather and SeasonsCold Water Cove transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own magic to this mountain paradise. Summer arrives with sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities, while evenings cool down invitingly for campfire gatherings under starlit skies. When winter blankets the area in deep snow, the campground slumbers beneath a frozen wonderland, temporarily inaccessible but preparing for spring's gentle awakening. The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer perhaps the most rewarding experiences – mild temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking through awakening forests or witnessing autumn's golden transformation, while anglers find these months particularly productive for landing trophy catches.
ElevationPerched at 3,100 feet above sea level, Cold Water Cove offers a refreshing mountain retreat where the air feels noticeably crisper and cleaner with each breath. This elevation creates a natural air conditioning system during summer months, providing welcome relief from valley heat while maintaining comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. The altitude contributes to the lake's remarkable clarity and year-round cold temperatures, creating an environment where both wildlife and wildflowers thrive in their high-altitude habitat.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering Douglas firs mingle with vibrant maples and alders, creating a natural privacy screen around each campsite. The star attraction remains Clear Lake itself – a jewel of impossibly blue water so transparent that kayakers and boaters can peer down at the ghostly underwater forest preserved in its depths. When the morning mist lifts, dramatic views emerge of the Three Sisters and Mount Washington, their snow-capped peaks reflected perfectly in the lake's mirror-like surface. Ancient lava flows frame this aquatic gem, their dark, craggy surfaces contrasting beautifully with the verdant forest and creating a landscape that feels both primordial and vibrantly alive.
Geological RegionCold Water Cove Campground occupies a front-row seat in one of the Pacific Northwest's most geologically fascinating theaters. Situated in the heart of the Cascade Range within the vast Willamette National Forest, this area showcases the raw power of volcanic forces that shaped the region. The campground rests where ancient lava flows created natural dams, birthing the stunning Clear Lake that defines the landscape today. This unique positioning offers visitors an immersive experience in a living geological classroom, where the interplay between volcanic basalt, pristine mountain water, and thriving forest ecosystems creates a landscape found nowhere else in the Cascades.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides a mixed level of accessibility due to its natural terrain. While the vault toilets and some facilities are accessible, the heavily forested and lava-flowed terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility concerns.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size and can accommodate vehicles from 18 to 50 feet in length. Some reviews noted tight fits for larger RVs, such as Gerald G., who stated, "Parking area not very level, was barely able to level my camper."
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are generally spacious and private, surrounded by trees. Jared Thompson remarked, "Almost every campsite is very private surrounded by trees." However, a few users noted exceptions where sites were close together.
Total Campsites34 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #6 offers ample space for multiple vehicles. Site #17 has lake views but requires navigating steep terrain for water access. Site #32 is spacious but located centrally with other sites surrounding it.
Best Campsites
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance. Maximum stay limit not explicitly defined in the source.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific data available on guest limits.
Groups
Group camping is not specifically supported at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 34 campsites divided into loops. Sites are surrounded by trees for privacy, with limited lake views from select campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 6 to October 12 during peak seasons. Closed from October 12 to May 15 except for out-of-season walk-in availability.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available during off-peak seasons from May 15 to June 4. Limited sites may remain available during peak seasons as well.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds, modifications, cancellations, or other fee changes allowed for Scan and Pay payments.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Cold Water Cove offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy fishing, hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail runs through the campground, providing access to a 26-mile hiking and biking route that loops around Clear Lake and connects to nearby attractions such as Sahalie and Koosah Falls. The lake itself is ideal for non-motorized boating activities, and a nearby resort offers boat rentals.
Hiking
The McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, which spans 26 miles, passes through the campground and offers hikers scenic views of the turquoise waters of Clear Lake and surrounding lava fields. Hikers can also access the Sahalie and Koosah Falls via nearby trails. Janice HP shared, "The trail around the lake is pretty long and has quite a bit of lava rock areas as the trail. The other side is a very nice forest floor trail."Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Clear Lake, with anglers targeting brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout. Power boating is not permitted, ensuring calm waters for fishing. The fish cleaning station near the boat ramp adds convenience.Swimming
Swimming is technically possible but discouraged due to the lake’s extremely cold temperatures, averaging between 32-44°F. Tricia O. noted, "Not a swimming lake and I’d be afraid of falling off my SUP!"Biking
Mountain bikers can explore the McKenzie River National Recreation Trail, which offers a mix of terrain from forest trails to paths over lava fields. Amy W. remarked, "Right on the McKenzie River Trail which is intended for Mountain Biking but also accessible to hikers."Boating
Non-motorized boating such as canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding is allowed. A boat ramp is available within the campground, and boat rentals can be accessed at the nearby Clear Lake Resort.Wildlife viewing
The campground’s natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, including sightings of ospreys, chipmunks, and other native species. Nikkie Poe shared, "I enjoyed seeing the wildlife while there; this chipmunk came to say hello. We named him Alvin Bartholomew Gibson."Winter Activities
The campground does not operate during the winter season and does not support winter activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular at Clear Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed unless explicitly banned due to fire season. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but violations during peak seasons have been noted in some reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity requires campers to store food securely. Cold water temperatures pose risks for swimming.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned.
Weather at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)
45
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Moderate drizzle
Precipitation: 0.8%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 97%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 12.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Very Light Rain - (0.80% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Moderate drizzle
Weather History
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Emergency Services
McKenzie Ranger Station, 57600 McKenzie Hwy, Blue River, OR 97413; Albany Emergency Services in Albany, OR.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 6 to October 12
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground. A few reviews like Sarah M.'s mentioned occasional overflows, particularly during busy summer weekends.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Clear Lake, which offers fishing, non-motorized boating, and glass-clear water views. Nearby attractions include Sahalie and Koosah Falls.
Common complaintsSome reviews report rude campground hosts and issues with restroom cleanliness during peak seasons. Complaints about reservation system errors have been noted.
HostHosts have been described as either very welcoming or rude depending on individual experiences. Positive reports include diligent maintenance and friendly assistance.
Campground Map
Cold Water Cove Campground, P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97048, USA
Driving directionsFrom Eugene, Oregon, take I-105 east to McKenzie Highway 126. Travel east on 126 for 55 miles to McKenzie Bridge. From McKenzie Bridge, travel east on Highway 126 for 18 miles to the Clear Lake Area. Before reaching Clear Lake, turn right on Forest Road 770, heading northeast 1 mile to Cold Water Cove Campground at the end of the road.
The campground is located 1 mile northeast of Clear Lake and accessed via Forest Road 770. The road is paved, but seasonal closures may apply due to snow or maintenance. The terrain is straightforward and suitable for most vehicles.Nearby places
Eugene, OR (approximately 73 miles, 1 hour and 30 minutes drive time)
Coburg, OR (approximately 70 miles, 1 hour and 25 minutes drive time)
McKenzie Bridge, OR (approximately 18 miles, 25 minutes drive time)
Albany, OR (approximately 60 miles, 1 hour and 10 minutes drive time)
Nearby supplies
Clear Lake Resort offers a small general store for basic supplies and boat rentals. Larger grocery stores and fuel stations are accessible in Eugene, OR (approximately 73 miles away) or McKenzie Bridge, OR (18 miles away).
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
124 reviews
Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Cold Water Cove Campground receives mixed reviews from users. Many appreciate its scenic beauty, private campsites, and easy access to recreational activities. However, some complaints focus on the lack of cell service, issues with camp hosts, and occasional maintenance lapses.
Review Summaries
Based on 124 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praise includes the campground’s natural beauty, clean and private campsites, and excellent access to Clear Lake for kayaking and fishing. Kayaking and hiking were particularly noted as...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include lack of cell service, inconsistent restroom cleanliness, and issues with reservation management. Some users also noted that certain campsites were uneven or had limited access to...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring leveling blocks for RVs or trailers as some sites are uneven.
2. Prepare for no cell service by downloading maps and essential information beforehand.
3. Consider visiting in the off-season...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the busiest season, with crowded weekends leading to overflowing dumpsters and bathrooms. Fall offers a quieter experience with fewer maintenance issues reported. Spring is often noted for...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "The lake is stunning, clear, cold, and well-stocked with trout." - Ryan W.
2. "The trail around the lake was great, so many things to do and explore in the area." - Tricia O.
3. "Vault toilets...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite #6: Pull-through site with room for multiple vehicles but tight space for equipment. Janice HP noted it was 'all shade and very pleasant in the hot weather.' Campsite #26: Close to...
Based on 124 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The terrain near vault toilets and certain campsites can be uneven or steep, making accessibility challenging. However, the hosts are known to be accommodating, as noted by Silvia Reyes.
Based on 124 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several users appreciated the spacious sites that allowed for better control of their pets. However, one user mentioned issues with barking dogs disturbing their stay.
Based on 124 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated December 7, 2025
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