Cougar Crossing Campground
Currently closed for the early season. Opens May 11, 2026 with sites available via Recreation.gov. Open year-round weather permitting, though Forest Road 19 is not maintained for snow and ice in winter.
Air Quality Alert issued August 5 at 1:16PM PDT by NWS Portland OR
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency have continued an Air Quality Advisory, which is IN EFFECT UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE. An Air Quality Advisory for Smoke remains in effect. Wildfires burning in the region combined with forecasted conditions will cause air quality to reach unhealthy levels at times until further notice. Pollutants in smoke can cause burning eyes, runny nose, aggravate heart and lung diseases, and aggravate other serious health problems. Limit outdoor activities and keep children indoors if it is smoky. Please follow medical advice if you have a heart or lung condition. More information about air quality can be found at: www.oregon.gov/DEQ www.lrapa.org
Air Quality Alert issued August 5 at 11:17AM PDT by NWS Portland OR
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency have issued an Air Quality Advisory, which is in effect until further notice. An Air Quality Advisory for Smoke has been issued. Wildfires burning in the region combined with forecasted conditions will cause air quality to reach unhealthy levels due to smoke at times until further notice. Pollutants in smoke can cause burning eyes, runny nose, aggravate heart and lung diseases, and aggravate other serious health problems. Limit outdoor activities and keep children indoors if it is smoky. Please follow medical advice if you have a heart or lung condition. More information about air quality can be found at: www.orcaa.org www.swcleanair.gov www.oregon.gov/DEQ www.lrapa.org
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
About
Cougar Crossing Campground occupies a scenic spot at the southern end of Cougar Reservoir where the South Fork of the McKenzie River flows in. Nestled among mixed conifers along Forest Road 19 (Aufderheide Drive), the campground offers 11 standard nonelectric sites on gravel spurs that can accommodate tents, trailers, or RVs up to 40 feet. Each site features back-in access with a 40-foot driveway. Vault toilets are available but there is no drinking water, so campers must bring their own supply. Firewood is sold on-site and campfires are permitted. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. The campground is the closest overnight camping option to Terwilliger Hot Springs, a popular natural hot spring about a mile away. Recreation opportunities abound in the surrounding area. The Three Sisters Wilderness, French Pete Trail, Box Canyon Trail, and Indian Ridge Lookout are all nearby. When reservoir levels are high, a primitive boat launch across from the campground provides lake access. Dispersed camping is prohibited in the Cougar Recreation Area, so all overnight stays must be in designated campgrounds.
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 south 5 miles to find Cougar Crossing Campground where the South Fork of the McKenzie River enters Cougar Reservoir.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $18 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 40ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 40ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Help.Willamette.McKenzieRiver@AmericanLL.com | |
| Phone | +1 (541) 822-3381 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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