Cougar Crossing Campground

Star4.25
27 reviews

Quick Facts

1,732 ft

Price

$17/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

11 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Cougar Crossing Campground
$17.00 - $17.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Camping at Cougar Crossing Campground costs $17 per night. Reviews indicate this fee applies to standard campsites. No reservation fee applies as the...
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Standard Site Fee$17.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.25

Satisfactory

Based on 27 reviews

26 Google reviews

Most mentioned

spaciouslocationsites

Some mention

noise

"User reviews highlight the natural beauty of the area and the convenience of its location near Terwilliger Hot Springs. Some visitors appreciate the privacy and spaciousness of certain sites, while others note issues with litter and noise from other campers. The road leading to the campground is described as poorly maintained."

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Campground Map

Cougar Crossing Campground

44.0582, -122.2199

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. 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.
The campground is accessible via Forest Road 19, which has several challenges, especially during winter. Reviewers have noted the road is in very poor condition, with 'many large potholes and long stretches of muddy and slick areas.' A vehicle with high ground clearance is recommended.
Nearby places
Blue River, OR: approximately 9 miles (15-min drive)
McKenzie Bridge, OR: approximately 18 miles (30-min drive)
Eugene, OR: approximately 60 miles (1.5-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies can be found in Blue River, OR, approximately 9 miles away. Larger stores and services are available in Eugene, OR, around 60 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Cougar Crossing Campground

Winter transforms Cougar Crossing into a quiet wonderland where temperatures dance between a crisp 35°F and mild 48°F. Nature's artistry paints the landscape with up to 2.9 inches of delicate snowfall, while Pacific Northwest rains create a symphony on the forest canopy. During these magical winter months, the campground becomes a peaceful retreat for hardy souls, though icy conditions may challenge access roads. Visitors should come prepared for the mountain's moody weather patterns and check conditions before embarking on their winter camping adventure.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is popular, shaded sites and easy recreational access make it a strong season.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall likely scenic and pleasant; fewer explicit reviews but PNW foliage and views imply high appeal.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Spring likely pleasant with flowing river and reservoir access, but road/conditions can be variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but Forest Road 19 access may be limited by snow/ice; winter visits are more difficult.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Open year-round, but winter access via Forest Road 19 may be limited due to snow and ice.

About Cougar Crossing Campground

Nestled in the heart of Oregon's wilderness, Cougar Crossing Campground offers an intimate escape with 11 thoughtfully placed gravel campsites perfect for both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers. Each site provides a cozy retreat among towering trees, where the sounds of the nearby South Fork McKenzie River create nature's soundtrack. While embracing a back-to-basics camping experience without drinking water, the campground maintains essential comforts with vault toilets and firewood available for purchase. Adventure seekers will find themselves perfectly positioned to explore the legendary Terwilliger Hot Springs, making this hidden gem an ideal basecamp for those seeking both relaxation and exploration.
Cougar Crossing Campground features 11 campsites, open year-round, that accommodate RVs and tents. It is designed for both individual and small group use.
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Amenities available

Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Cougar Crossing Campground provides access to various outdoor activities. The nearby South Fork of the McKenzie River and Cougar Reservoir offer scenic views. The campground is also conveniently located near Terwilliger Hot Springs, which is a popular attraction.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWinter road conditions are hazardous due to snow and ice. Additionally, one review mentions 'trash left by campers,' which may attract wildlife.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Cougar Crossing Campground

Reviews

4.3
27 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Cougar Crossing Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty of the area and the convenience of its location near Terwilliger Hot Springs. Some visitors appreciate the privacy and spaciousness of certain sites, while others note issues with litter and noise from other campers. The road leading to the campground is described as poorly maintained.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects mentioned by users include the scenic location, proximity to Terwilliger Hot Springs, and spacious campsites with picnic tables and fire pits. Visitors also appreciate the year-round...
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Based on 27 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of drinking water, presence of litter, limited privacy at some sites, and the poor condition of the access road with potholes and muddy areas.
Based on 27 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend selecting shaded sites like #2 or #3 for hot weather. High-clearance vehicles are suggested due to the poor road conditions. It's also recommended to visit Terwilliger Hot Springs...
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Based on 27 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground’s year-round availability is noted, but reviews suggest that winter conditions may make access difficult due to the unmaintained road. Summer visits are popular, and shaded sites are...
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Based on 27 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This is a very nice campground. There are 12 sites here, each with a picnic bench and fire pit.' - Anachronic X 2. 'Pick a shady campsite like #2 or #3 and #12 if it’s hot.' - Twistedhippie 3....
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Based on 27 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviewers recommend specific sites, such as #2 and #3 for shade, and caution against sites like #1 and #6, which offer little to no shade.
Based on 27 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features of the campground.
Based on 27 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 27 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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