Hard Rock Campground
4.166 reviewsP.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97408, USA
Hard Rock Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates are $35 per night during peak season from April 30 to September 6. Reservation fees and change/cancellation fees may apply.
About this campground
Tucked away along the rushing waters of the South Fork McKenzie River, Hard Rock Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude in nature's embrace. This intimate, primitive group site rewards adventurers with the kind of peaceful seclusion that's increasingly rare, where the only sounds are the river's melody and the whisper of wind through ancient trees. Just moments from the sparkling waters of Cougar Reservoir, this hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for groups looking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with each other.
Hard Rock Campground is exclusively a tent-only, group camping site. It is designed for small groups of up to 10 people and lacks facilities for RVs or individual camping.
Historical SignificanceSet in the storied wilderness near Blue River, Hard Rock Campground occupies land that has witnessed centuries of natural and human history. The nearby salmon release points serve as a living reminder of the area's vital role in preserving Pacific Northwest ecosystems, where generations of salmon have returned to these pristine waters. This ecological heritage makes every visit a chance to witness the ongoing story of conservation and renewal in Oregon's wild heart.
Weather and SeasonsFrom April through September, Hard Rock transforms into a temperate paradise where crisp mountain mornings give way to pleasantly mild afternoons hovering around 45°F. The dry summer air carries the scent of sun-warmed Douglas-fir and creates perfect conditions for campfire gatherings under star-filled skies. As autumn fades to winter, the campground takes on a wilder character, with Pacific storms bringing dramatic rainfall and occasional snow dustings that transform the landscape into a moody, moss-draped wonderland.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 1,800-foot elevation, Hard Rock strikes the perfect balance between mountain ambiance and accessibility. This moderate altitude means you'll enjoy the crisp, clean air and cooler temperatures of the Cascades without the challenges of high-altitude camping, making it a welcoming destination for adventurers throughout the year.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where towering Douglas-fir sentinels create a living cathedral above your campsite, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. The crystalline waters of nearby Cougar Reservoir reflect the surrounding peaks like a mirror, while Balm Creek winds through the forest floor, its gentle babbling providing nature's soundtrack. At 1,800 feet, this verdant mountain sanctuary showcases the Cascades at their most lush and inviting, where moss-covered logs and fern-filled understory create an enchanted forest atmosphere.
Geological RegionHard Rock Campground rests on the dramatic western slopes of Oregon's iconic Cascade Mountains, where volcanic peaks meet temperate rainforest in a spectacular collision of ecosystems. This geologically dynamic region showcases the raw power of tectonic forces through its rugged topography, while the proximity to Cougar Reservoir and Balm Creek reveals how water has carved intimate valleys and gentle meadows from the ancient volcanic rock, creating the diverse mountain landscapes that make this corner of the Cascades so captivating.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe group site can host up to 10 people.
Sites PrivacyThe site offers moderate privacy but is not fully secluded. Reviewers note that there is a long driveway leading to the site, and it is possible for visitors or fishermen to pass through.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe group site is ideal for families and groups seeking seclusion and access to fishing/swimming holes. Dogs can roam freely.
Best CampsitesThe single group area is highly rated for its privacy and proximity to the McKenzie River.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within a 60-day rolling period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 10 guests per group site.
Groups
The campground has one tent-only group site that accommodates up to 10 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe single group site is accessible via a long driveway, offering seclusion and ample space for parking and camping.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open for reservations from April 30 to September 6 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityThis facility is reservation-only; no walk-up availability is allowed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival for group sites) result in forfeiting the first night's fee in addition to the cancellation fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Hard Rock Campground offers limited but enjoyable recreational opportunities, including fishing in the South Fork of the McKenzie River, hiking trails nearby, and wildlife viewing. Visitors have noted the peaceful atmosphere and the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
Hiking
Hiking trails are located nearby, such as the Castle Rock Trail, which offers dense Douglas-fir forests and impressive views of the McKenzie River valley.Fishing
The river provides catch-and-release fishing opportunities for wild redside and cutthroat trout. Cougar Reservoir, nearby, supports motorized boating and fishing activities.Swimming
There is a swimming hole along a private trail at the campground, as reported by reviewers. The water is calm and suitable for cooling off.Boating
Cougar Reservoir, located nearby, is open to motorized boating and offers a scenic setting.Wildlife viewing
Reviewers have mentioned opportunities to observe salmon drops in August, as the campground is near a release site for salmon retrieved from the Cougar Dam. Other wildlife sightings may include local flora and fauna.Winter Activities
No winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned, but the calm areas of the river might be suitable for activities like wading or relaxing by the water.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood must be sourced locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly specified.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include aggressive trespassers, wildlife interactions (bears), and fallen trees in the area. The campground is bear-aware, requiring proper food storage.
Active alertsSeasonal alerts like fallen trees blocking roads beyond the campground may occur.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available in Blue River, OR, for basic medical needs, and Coburg, OR, for comprehensive services.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 30 - September 6 (yearly)
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but no recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the South Fork of the McKenzie River and near Cougar Reservoir. The river provides fishing and swimming opportunities.
Common complaintsUser complaints include issues with trespassers walking into the site and lack of clear signage indicating the site is private and reservable.
HostCampground host is located at nearby French Pete Campground and can assist if needed.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR 97408, USA
Driving directionsFrom Blue River, OR, travel 4 miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19). Turn right on Aufderheide Drive and continue south about 3/4 mile. Veer right at the Y and continue 10 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible from Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19), which is paved and leads directly to the site. Seasonal conditions such as fallen trees may occasionally block areas beyond the campground.Nearby places
Blue River, OR (approximately 4 miles away), Coburg, OR (approximately 50 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in Blue River, OR, located approximately 4 miles away for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.2
6 reviews
Hard Rock Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise Hard Rock Campground for its secluded and scenic location. The peaceful setting, proximity to the river, and spacious site are commonly highlighted. Some complaints include occasional trespassers and lack of privacy due to the open driveway.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive comments emphasize the campground's privacy, scenic views, and proximity to the river. Reviewers appreciated the calm swimming hole, ample space for group activities, and the opportunity to...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints focus on trespassers accessing the site due to unclear signage, occasional disturbances from fishermen, and the lack of potable water or advanced facilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving the site well in advance due to its popularity. Bringing your own water and being prepared for primitive camping conditions are necessary. Some reviewers suggest adding...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular during summer months due to favorable weather and the salmon release event in August. Reviewers appreciate the cool water for swimming and the opportunity to relax by...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"There's a nice little spot on the river where the water is fairly calm, so our dogs can wander around the water." - Carrie Entler
"What a deal—a private campground all to yourself for $31 a night...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground offers only one site, which is described as spacious and clean. Reviewers noted that it is a tent-only group site ideal for small gatherings.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features are provided.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviewers note that the site is pet-friendly, with ample space for dogs to roam and play in the river. However, occasional fishermen and trespassers may disturb pets.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025