Red Diamond Campground
4.308 reviewsP.O. Box 8516, Coburg, OR, 97408, USA
Red Diamond Campground
$75.00 - $75.00 / 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$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The facility charges $75 per night for the Group Standard Area Nonelectric during peak season (April 30 to September 06). Discounts or taxes are not included in this base rate.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of a pristine river, Red Diamond Campground beckons groups seeking an authentic outdoor experience away from the crowds. This rustic hideaway accommodates up to 25 guests per site, creating the perfect setting for family reunions, scout troops, or friends gathering under towering forest canopies. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals, campfire rings for evening storytelling, and convenient parking areas. While portable facilities maintain the campground's back-to-nature charm, visitors should pack their own water supply to ensure a comfortable stay in this peaceful riverside retreat.
Red Diamond Campground supports group camping with a rustic, non-electric setup. It is ideal for larger camping parties who enjoy the outdoors.
Historical SignificanceRed Diamond Campground stands as a testament to Oregon's enduring wilderness, offering visitors a chance to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with the timeless rhythms of the forest.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of changing seasons at Red Diamond, where each time of year paints the landscape in different hues. Late spring through early fall marks the sweet spot for camping, with comfortable temperatures that invite long days of exploration and peaceful evenings by the fire. Summer visitors enjoy the added bonus of minimal mosquito activity, making outdoor dining and riverside relaxation even more pleasant. Winter transforms the campground into a quieter wonderland, though adventurous souls should prepare for possible rain showers or snow dustings that add drama to the forest scenery.
ElevationSet within Oregon's diverse topography, Red Diamond Campground offers visitors a chance to experience the unique climate and ecosystems that make the Cascade Range such a treasured destination.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Douglas firs create a natural cathedral above Red Diamond Campground, their ancient branches intertwining with vibrant maples and graceful alders to form a living canopy that filters sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The melodic rush of the South Fork McKenzie River provides a constant soundtrack, its crystal-clear waters tumbling over smooth stones just steps from your campsite. Gaze beyond your tent to discover the dramatic wooded slopes of the Cascade Range rising majestically around you, while nearby streams cascade down moss-covered rocks, creating intimate waterfalls that invite quiet contemplation and photography.
Geological RegionRed Diamond Campground sits in the heart of Oregon's legendary Cascade Range, where volcanic peaks and ancient forests tell the story of millions of years of geological drama. This midsection of the Cascades showcases nature's diversity through its impressive stands of Douglas fir, maple, and alder trees that thrive in the rich volcanic soils. The nearby South Fork of the McKenzie River has carved its path through this mountainous terrain over millennia, creating the stunning river valley that makes this campground such a special destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specified in the available materials or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground can accommodate up to 25 guests with ample space for large groups.
Sites PrivacySites are described as gated for privacy, although one review mentions they are along the road, reducing seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites offering privacy. Reviews suggest sites near the gated area for reduced traffic and disturbances.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsite numbers (001-03) mentioned in reviews as desirable for group camping.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights during a single visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests per group site.
Groups
The site accommodates up to 25 guests, allowing for larger camping groups with space for multiple tents and vehicles. Reviews indicate spaciousness and a gated setup.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop layout with picnic tables, campfire rings, and parking.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from April 30 to September 06 annually. Closed outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov. Additional fees apply for using different booking platforms.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability specified. Reservations required for group sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made up to midnight on the day before scheduled check-in for individual campsites. Group facility cancellations must occur at least 14 days before the arrival date to avoid penalties. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Red Diamond Campground have various recreational options, including fishing, kayaking, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Nearby trails such as Box Canyon Trail and Chucksney Mountain Trail offer diverse outdoor experiences.
Hiking
Numerous hiking opportunities are available, including nearby Box Canyon Trail, Chucksney Mountain Trail, Grasshopper Mountain Trail, and Roaring Ridge. Trails vary in difficulty and provide scenic views.Fishing
Fishing is available in the South Fork McKenzie River, although reviews mention the difficulty in accessing the river bank from the campground due to dense vegetation and steep slopes.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are available on trails within 10 miles, including Box Canyon Trail.Boating
Kayaking is a popular activity on the South Fork McKenzie River.Winter Activities
No information mentioned regarding winter activities.Water Sports
Kayaking is available and popular on the South Fork McKenzie River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated rings. Adherence to firewood guidelines is encouraged to prevent spread of invasive species.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep access to the river and dense vegetation make riverbank access challenging. Seasonal mosquito activity varies, with high activity reported in July.
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: 4.2 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 likely in Coburg, OR, approximately 44 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 30 to September 06 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, although recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the South Fork McKenzie River, though access to the riverbank is steep and wooded.
Common complaintsComplaints include inadequate restroom facilities (portable toilets often full), limited river access due to steep slopes, and unreliable availability of supplies at nearby locations.
HostThe campground host is described positively in reviews. Exact contact details or availability not provided.
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 and proceed south on Aufderheide Drive, taking the Y and climbing to the top of Cougar Reservoir. Continue south on Aufderheide Drive for 13 miles to Red Diamond Group Campsite.
The driving directions indicate paved roads and clear navigation details. The site is accessible year-round, but navigation involves forest roads and steep climbs that may pose challenges in snowy or icy conditions.Nearby places
Coburg, OR: approximately 44 miles northeast (travel time varies)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including water and firewood, may be available at French Pete Campground, but reviews indicate unreliable availability. Nearby cities also offer provisions.
Camper Reviews
4.3
8 reviews
Red Diamond Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground received positive feedback for its spaciousness, cleanliness, and suitability for group camping. Common issues include inaccessible riverbanks and poorly maintained portable toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciated the ample space for tents and vehicles, shaded areas, gated privacy, and proximity to outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
Based on 8 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some issues mentioned in reviews include the fullness of portable toilets, difficulty accessing the riverbank, lack of potable water, and occasional traffic attempting to use the facilities.
Based on 8 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers highly recommend bringing all necessary water supplies due to the lack of potable water on-site. Bug repellents may be necessary during peak mosquito seasons. Firewood availability is...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Late summer (August) experiences lower mosquito activity compared to earlier months like July. The river's cold water temperature makes it unsuitable for swimming at the campground during most times...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Great campsite for large groups. 2 Bucks are on site for bathroom usage, kept as clean as you can get from a Bucks in the middle of a warm summer." - Jake Charlson
"Red Diamond is a fantastic...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001-03 is noted for its riverside location and shade, but traffic attempting to use the facilities is mentioned as a concern.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features were not discussed in the reviews, leaving their effectiveness unclear.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically addressed pet policies or experiences.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025