How much does camping cost at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Camping fees at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf range from $25-$50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf first-come first-served or reservation?

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf before I book?

Yes! Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf is open May 15 to October 11. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf have?

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf has 34 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Popular activities at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Q: Can I have a campfire at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf?

Fire policies at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf: Don't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.34

274 reviews

Cold Water Cove Campground, P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97048, USA

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Oregon

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,100 ft

Price

$25 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open from June 6 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Linn County Parks and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,100 ft

Price

$25 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open from June 6 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Linn County Parks and Recreation Official Website

Get Directions

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

$25.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

MANAGEMENT: $25.00; S&P Double: $50.00; S&P Single : $25.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC- Double Site: $50.00; STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $25.00; TENT ONLY...

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

801-226-3564

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Cold Water Cove Campground, P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97048, USA

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Cold Water Cove Campground, P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97048, USA

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)

Weather at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Current alerts(8)

Fire bans are common during summer months. | Campfires allowed until and unless otherwise posted.
A fee of $9 will be charged for day-use visitors
An additional fee of $9 will be charged for extra vehicles parked at your campsite.
Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers or locked inside your vehicle and remove all food from the area after eating

Best Time to Camp at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable warm weather and full access to Clear Lake—the lake is ideal for swimming, paddling, boating, and trout fishing when daytime highs typically reach 70–85°F (21–29°C) and evenings cool to the 40s–50s°F (4–10°C). Trails and biking routes are dry and fully accessible, wildlife viewing is active, and all campground services are open (campground open June 6–Oct 12). Expect the busiest weekends and holiday periods, so plan weekdays or arrive early to secure a waterfront/ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Quieter season with fewer maintenance issues and good scenery; campground still open early fall.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to October 11. 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.

About Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Cold Water Cove sits on the shores of Clear Lake in Willamette National Forest, operated by Linn County Parks and Recreation. This mid-sized campground in the Cascade foothills offers clean, private campsites with direct lake access for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Tent and RV campers share vault toilets, potable water, and a camp store, with hiking and biking trails nearby.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable warm weather and full access to Clear Lake—the lake is ideal for swimming, paddling, boating, and trout fishing when daytime highs typically reach 70–85°F (21–29°C) and evenings cool to the 40s–50s°F (4–10°C). Trails and biking routes are dry and fully accessible, wildlife viewing is active, and all campground services are open (campground open June 6–Oct 12). Expect the busiest weekends and holiday periods, so plan weekdays or arrive early to secure a waterfront/ Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation3100 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryClear Lake dominates the view. A volcanic lake so transparent that paddlers can see the underwater forest preserved in its depths. Ancient lava flows created the natural dam that formed this lake, where the McKenzie River begins. Douglas firs, maples, and alders surround the campsites, and on clear days Mount Washington and the Three Sisters appear across the water. The dark basalt contrasts with the blue lake and green forest. Most sites have tree cover, though only a few offer direct lake views.

Lodging & AccommodationsWhile there is no lodging directly within the campground, Clear Lake Resort nearby offers additional accommodations such as boat rentals and dining options.

Programs & ActivitiesNo formal cultural or educational programs are offered at the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

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.

Site 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.

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 SitesSite #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 CampsitesSite #6 gets praise for its pull-through design and proximity to amenities. Site #17 offers privacy and a lake view. Site #26 provides easy boat ramp access. Katie Newnham called this her favorite place to camp, though Gerald G. noted his site was barely level enough for his camper.

Need help booking Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Cold Water Cove Campground offers a variety of amenities catering to both individual and family campers. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. Vault toilets and trash collection facilities are available on-site. Drinking water is provided via two hand pumps, one located within the campground and the other near the boat launch area. Nearby, visitors can access a boat ramp for non-motorized crafts, a fish cleaning station, and a picnic site. A general store and restaurant are located at the adjacent Clear Lake Resort. No hookups of any kind (electricity, water, or sewer) are provided for RVs. Campfires are allowed unless otherwise posted, though fire bans are common during summer months. Additionally, there is an overflow parking area for extra vehicles. Some user reviews highlighted the campground’s clean and well-maintained facilities, while a few mentioned issues such as vault toilets needing more frequent cleaning and limited water pumps.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Camp Store

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Biking

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground features vault toilets. Some reviews like those from Jennifer Hummel described them as "like outhouses" but noted they are cleaned regularly. Others, like Katherine Leonard, commented on strong smells despite frequent cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Please protect Pacific Northwest forests by preventing the spread of invasive species. Firewood can carry insects and diseases that can threaten the health of our western forests. You can make a difference by obtaining and burning your firewood near your camping destination. Visit Dontmovefirewood.org for further information.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available at the campground. A few reviews like Sarah M.'s mentioned occasional overflows, particularly during busy summer weekends.

Trip Planning Tools

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From Booking Sources

4.3

274 reviews

Recommended

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 274 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 274 reviews

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 274 reviews

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 274 reviews

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 274 reviews

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 274 reviews

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 274 reviews

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 274 reviews

Pet-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 274 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want direct Clear Lake access for paddling and fishing with clean, private campsites in a forested setting.

Skip if

You need flush toilets or want to avoid potential host interactions during busy summer weekends.

Nearby Campgrounds

McKenzie Ranger Station, 57600 McKenzie Hwy., Blue River, OR 97413

Ice Cap Campground sits in the Willamette National Forest foothills near Blue River, managed by Linn County Parks and Recreation. The small campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers use it as a base for hiking trails and boating on nearby waterways, with reviewers praising clean facilities and helpful hosts despite limited privacy between sites.

Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Real-Time Availability

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Campground Map

Weather at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Planning Tips

About Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)?

Amenities available

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

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Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

RV information

Directions

Plan a trip to Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Cold Water Cove - Willamette Nf (Or)?

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews