Cougar Lake, also known as Cougar Reservoir, can be found on the South Fork McKenzie River in Oregon. Located in Lane County, it is just over 45 miles east of Eugene, Oregon. Back in the early 1960s, the United States Army Corps of engineers build a dam on the river nearby. This was done not only to create hydroelectricity and control flooding, but also became the birthplace of the reservoir which formed behind the dam.
Many people camp along the McKenzie River for its beautiful views, but it’s also well known for trout fishing as well as having a ton of boat launches. Cougar Crossing Campground can be found within Willamette National Forest next to the dam and is an RV campers paradise.
Cougar Lake is relatively easy to access and is surrounded by several different campgrounds. Cougar Crossing Campgrounds has both tent and RV camping available. There are 11 campsites in total, and the interior roads are gravel. There are vault toilets available as well as firewood for sale. You can easily get to Cougar Crossing Campground by taking Forest Road 19.
From this campground, you’ll get beautiful views of the surrounding forest as well as the McKenzie River and Cougar Lake. There are also a handful of hiking and biking trails available around the lake and along the river. Oregon experiences four seasons, but they’re fairly mild. You shouldn’t have to worry too much about snow or ice on the roads if you’re traveling here in the winter. But it is important to note that there could possibly be road closures when there is severe weather. Be sure to check online if Forest Road 19 is open before you head out the door for your adventure.
There are several campgrounds around Cougar Lake, the foremost being Cougar Crossing Campgrounds. This Corp campground will make you feel like you’re truly living off the land, as it doesn’t have any electrical hookups. You can bring your furry friend as long as they’re kept on a leash. The campground does provide fire rings and toilets for campers to use.
If you’re looking for an RV campground to take in the beautiful surroundings, but you don't want to give up amenities, check out one of the many other campgrounds nearby such as Slide Creek Campground, which at least has running water.
There are a variety of different hiking trails near Cougar Lake. Luckily, there are trails available for people of all types of skill levels. French Pete Trail and Box Canyon Trail are some of the more popular trail options. If you’re looking for a casual walk around the reservoir, that’s an option for you. If you want a strenuous hike, there are more intense trails available, as well. For your own safety, it is important to wear high-quality hiking boots and carry any animal deterrent that may be necessary, such as bear spray.
The Pacific Northwest is one of the most photographic areas in the country. No matter what type of camera you bring, you’re bound to get a beautiful shot. This is a great activity to take part in at Cougar Lake. Not only do you have the beautiful lake to photograph, there are also plenty of views of the mountains and the forests that surround you.
Indian Ridge Lookout will give you an incredible view to photograph or just take in with your eyes. Visiting Cougar Lake may also be a great place to photograph a plethora of different animals, including bears, elk, birds, and more.
While you’re in the area, you may want to visit Cougar Crossing Day Use Area. Here you’ll find plenty of amazing spots to enjoy a meal. There are plenty of picnic tables around, as well as vault toilets. You can always kick it old school and enjoy a picnic on a blanket laid on the ground.
To keep the area clean and preserved, there are garbage bins available to use for any trash you may have from your meal. Picnicking here is a great way to enjoy the view of the dam, the reservoir, and the river.
If you still enjoy being outdoors during the off-season, you’ll be able to enjoy ice fishing on and near Cougar Lake. For your own safety, please check to make sure the ice is thick enough before attempting to ice fish. You can find this information online before your trip. If it’s not thick enough, you can fish right on the McKenzie River! Rainbow trout are one of the more popular types of fish caught in the area. Chinook salmon is another fish type you’ll likely be able to catch! It’s important to note that you will want to keep your eye out for bull trout, as it is illegal to catch and keep them.
When you’re at Cougar Lake, you’re surrounded by a river and dense forests. These areas, along with the lake, are filled with an abundant amount of wildlife. In the lake and river, you’ll find a variety of fish, and in the forest, you’ll find animals such as bears, elk, bald eagles, turkeys, and more. Whether you’re renting an RV or driving your own, be sure to pack a pair of binoculars along with a book about wild animals. This can help you see your surroundings better and can teach you a thing or two about the wildlife you’re viewing!
Terwilliger Hot Springs can take your trip to a whole new level. If you’re looking for relaxation, Terwilliger Hot Springs is located deep in the forest under a canopy of trees. There are five rock-walled pools available that range between 90 and 112 degrees. It’s open year-round and a great way to relax after a long hike. Hot springs have a variety of health benefits, including reducing stress, boosting blood circulation, and pain relief. These hot springs are closed from sunset to sunrise every night, and each pool is cleaned daily. Even though there is a manned-kiosk there, you’ll feel secluded and will be able to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
