Hot springs enthusiasts find themselves just minutes from Terwilliger Hot Springs at this small Forest Service campground along the South Fork McKenzie River. Cougar Crossing sits within forested terrain where conifers provide cover for the 14 sites, though reviewers note privacy remains limited across the open tent area.
The campground operates on a reservation-only basis, with half the sites accommodating RVs up to 40 feet and the remainder designated for tent camping. Access requires navigating past Cougar Reservoir, and as Katie S. notes, the location can be "hard to find because there is limited signage around the reservoir." The internal road shows signs of wear according to multiple visitors.
Wildlife activity runs high in this area, with recent camper reports of large cougars moving through the campground at night. The adjacent river supports fishing opportunities, though swimming access remains limited. Pit toilets serve the campground, and cell service does not reach this canyon location. For those planning extended stays in the region, places to camp around Mckenzie Bridge provide additional options within the broader area.
The $18 nightly rate includes picnic tables and fire rings, making this a functional base for early morning visits to the nearby natural hot springs.
Description
Overview
Cougar Crossing Campground is located on Forest Road 19 about 10 miles south of the Hwy 126 junction.
Recreation
Hiking is popular as the Three Sisters Wilderness, French Pete Trail, Box Canyon Trail, Indian Ridge Lookout, and Cougar Recreation Area are nearby. Many folks also come to the area to bathe at Terwilliger Hot Springs (clothing optional). There is creek and river access, and opportunities for lake recreation. When the reservoir lake level is high, there is a primitive boat launch across from the campground available for use.
Facilities
Cougar Crossing offers 11 sites that can accommodate either RV or tent camping. Vault toilets are provided. There is firewood for sale. The interior roads and spurs are gravel. There is no drinking water.
Natural Features
Nestled in among a mix of conifers, the campground rests beside the South Fork of the McKenzie River and the south end of Cougar Reservoir. It is the closest campground to Terwilliger Hot Springs.
Contact Info
For facility specific information, please call (801) 226-3564.
Nearby Attractions
The campground and nearby Terwilliger Hot Springs have a colorful history and attract many visitors year round. There is plenty to explore at nearby trails and Three Sisters Wilderness.
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Warning 1 Alert is In Effect
There is 1 alert for this campground. Camp safely!
Please be aware that a ROAD CLOSURE on Willamette McKenzie River 19RD/Aufderheide, is effective from April 1, 2026, through April 30, 2026, and will affect this campground for both reservations and first-come, first-served (FCFS) access.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCougar Crossing Campground — Willamette National Forest is located in Oregon
Directions
From 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
Coordinates
44.0577778 N
122.2198083 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Contact
General Info
Reservations
Drive Time
- 1 hr 11 min from Eugene, OR
- 1 hr 39 min from Albany, OR
- 1 hr 44 min from Bend, OR
- 1 hr 47 min from Corvallis, OR
