Cougar Reservoir Area
In the summer months, Cougar Reservoir is a popular place for boating, swimming and fishing. Cougar Reservoir is located outside of Blue River along Aufderheide Drive, part of the West Cascades National Scenic Byway.
Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds in the Cougar Recreation Area. There are three developed campgrounds near the reservoir, Cougar Crossing, Slide Creek, and Sunnyside. The popular Terwilliger Hot Springs is along Rider Creek just west of the reservoir.
In late summer, early fall through spring, the water levels on Cougar Reservoir are frequently drawn down to the point where boat launches are no longer available. Reservoir and river level information is available from the US Army Corps of Engineers. Watch for obstructions near the shoreline such as submerged stumps, logs and rocks. Small craft should stay out of open waters when it is windy since dangerous waves can build up suddenly.
Located on the confluence of the South Fork of the McKenzie River and the south end of Cougar Reservoir, Cougar Crossing is open year round and offers 11 sites that can acc
The mixed conifers at 16 site (14 single, 2 multiple) Slide Creek Campground provide a beautiful wooded setting for this unique camping destination along the east bank of t
Slide Creek boat ramp and swim area is located in the Slide Creek Campground on the
Sunnyside Campground is located along the southeast side of Cougar Reservoir. A large grove of conifers provides shade to the 13 semi-private campsites.
Enjoy the 1/4 mile hike along the Rider Creek Trail (#3319) to the clothing optional hot springs.
Aufderheide Scenic Byway (Forest Service Road 19) is part of the 220 mile West Cascades Scenic Byway, which runs north to south, skirting the northern half of Oregon's Casc