Slide Creek
4.2339 reviews, Blue River, OR, 97413, USA
Slide Creek
$22.00 - $44.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$31.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly rates range from $22 to $44 during peak season, depending on site type. Additional fees include an $8 reservation fee online, and a $9 fee via contact center. Service fees for any cancellations or modifications are $10.
About this campground
Perched on the eastern shores of the pristine Cougar Reservoir, Slide Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect blend of waterfront tranquility and mountain exploration. This well-appointed basecamp invites you to launch your kayak from the convenient boat ramp at dawn, spend afternoons hiking nearby trails, and unwind at your picnic table as the sun sets over the water. Essential comforts include vault toilets and fresh spring water accessed through a charming hand pump, adding a touch of rustic authenticity to your outdoor experience.
Slide Creek Campground accommodates tent camping, trailers, and RVs, with a focus on rustic facilities. There is also a group site available.
Historical SignificanceJust steps from your campsite lies the legendary Terwilliger Hot Springs, where generations of travelers have soaked in naturally heated pools surrounded by ancient forest. This sacred gathering place has long served as a crossroads where outdoor enthusiasts share stories and forge connections, making Slide Creek not just a campground, but a gateway to one of Oregon's most cherished natural sanctuaries.
Weather and SeasonsAt 1,700 feet elevation, Slide Creek offers a refreshing mountain climate where crisp mornings give way to comfortable afternoons. Peak summer months deliver ideal conditions for swimming and boating, while shoulder seasons bring dramatic weather shifts that paint the landscape in ever-changing moods. Adventurous souls visiting in spring or fall should pack layers and rain gear, as mountain showers and occasional snow flurries remind visitors they're truly in the heart of the Cascades.
ElevationRising 1,700 feet above sea level, Slide Creek occupies a sweet spot in the Cascade foothills where mountain air stays refreshingly cool even on summer days. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate that keeps mosquitoes at bay while offering relief from valley heat, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking comfortable camping conditions without venturing into alpine extremes.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Willamette National Forest, where towering Douglas firs frame your campsite and the melody of cascading streams provides nature's soundtrack. The surrounding landscape unfolds in dramatic contrasts—from steep canyon walls to gentle lakeshores, creating diverse habitats that support an impressive cast of wildlife. Keep your camera ready for encounters with majestic Roosevelt elk grazing in meadows, black bears foraging for berries, and bald eagles soaring overhead against a backdrop of volcanic peaks.
Geological RegionSlide Creek Campground sits within the spectacular Willamette National Forest, a realm where ancient volcanic forces carved deep canyons and thrust peaks skyward, creating today's dramatic topography. The star attraction, Cougar Reservoir, stretches across 1,280 acres of crystal-clear water cradled between forested ridges at 1,700 feet elevation. This geological wonderland showcases nature's artistry through cascading waterfalls, narrow gorges, and densely wooded slopes that tell the story of millions of years of Pacific Northwest evolution.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible potable water source via hand pump, but requires a hike. Vault toilet location may limit accessibility for disabled campers. Group site offers spacious accommodations.
Sites SizeSites are described as small to moderately sized, with limited space for RVs or large equipment. 'Sites are definitely on the smaller side' and 'Site 11 was super small.'
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites are clustered close together, offering limited seclusion. Reviews highlight lack of privacy: 'Sites are closer than expected,' 'Not much between them.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Site 12 for space and views, or Site 4 for level ground. Avoid Site 6, as it's not level despite official descriptions. Sites near restrooms may experience foot traffic.
Best CampsitesSite 12 is frequently praised for its size and views. "Site 12 is the best in the campground. Plenty of room for multiple tents," states one review. Site 4 is described as flat, despite being labeled otherwise by Recreation.gov.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
.
Check-out
.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. A total of 14 nights within any rolling 60 days is allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites accommodate up to 4 guests. Larger group sites are available.
Groups
The group site is spacious and suitable for larger gatherings, accommodating multiple tents as user reviews indicate: 'We rented the group spot for our family and all of the space we like to have.'
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 15 sites, many of which are small and close together. Some sites are additional group areas with a larger layout.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season dates are April 16 - September 6, 2025. Out of season reservations are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, both online and through the app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available. "Most sites are first-come-first-serve," mentions one reviewer.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before check-in incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee if canceled late (after midnight the day before check-in). No-shows face a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Slide Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily centered around Cougar Reservoir and the surrounding natural areas. Activities include swimming, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and hiking. The nearby Terwilliger Hot Springs is a popular attraction, as mentioned in user reviews: 'Wonderful location! Even though the reservoir was low, the swimming was excellent.'
Hiking
The campground is close to the Olallie Trail Area, which has an extensive network of hiking trails. This includes trails open to biking, offering diverse terrain for exploration.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include catching rainbow trout in Cougar Reservoir. 'Anglers might catch some quality rainbow trout,' as described in the official overview.Swimming
Swimming activities are available at the reservoir, with reviews describing clear water conditions once away from the shore: 'The swimming was excellent. Once you got a few feet from shore, the water was crystal clear.'Biking
Half of the Olallie Trail Area is accessible for biking, with trails varying in difficulty.Boating
Boating activities include kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boarding. The campground has a boat ramp and designated parking for boat trailers.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife species commonly seen include bald eagles, black tail deer, and Roosevelt elk. 'Native wildlife includes bald eagles, black tail deer, and bobcats.'Winter Activities
:nullWater Sports
Water activities include canoeing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and water skiing on the Cougar Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase ($7) but overpriced compared to local stores.
- Quiet hours are Noise regulations are not consistently enforced, according to reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitos are reported as a major concern, especially in certain sites like 011 (due to drainage).
"Be bear aware; keep all food out of sight in approved containers."
Active alertsSeasonal road closures may affect accessibility.
Weather forecast
92
°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
, Blue River, OR
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 - September 6, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but there is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Cougar Reservoir, featuring a boat ramp and swimming areas.
Common complaintsSeveral complaints mention mosquitos, small campsite sizes, lack of privacy, and challenging access to water. "Water pump is a bit of a walk from the sites," notes one reviewer.
HostThe campground host is generally well-reviewed, described as knowledgeable and friendly. However, some reviewers note that the host didn't enforce noise regulations in certain situations.
Campground Map
, Blue River, OR, 97413, USA
Driving directionsFrom Blue River, travel 4 miles east on Hwy 126 to Aufderheide Drive (FS road 19). Proceed on Aufderheide Drive for 9.5 miles to FS road 1900-500 and continue for 1.5 miles to Slide Creek Campground.
Roads to the campground are gravel and feature potholes that may pose a challenge for sedans. The last mile from Cougar Crossing is especially potholed. "Follow the sign to the right at the dam and don't follow Google to the left," advises multiple reviewers. Some users also report confusing signage and detours due to road closures.Nearby places
Eugene, Oregon - 50 miles
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in nearby stores, but ice availability is reported to be limited. Firewood prices at the campground ($7) are higher than nearby stores ($5).
Camper Reviews
4.2
39 reviews
Slide Creek is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Slide Creek Campground receives mixed reviews from users. Positive aspects highlighted include its scenic location, proximity to Cougar Reservoir and Terwilliger Hot Springs, clean vault toilets, and helpful camp hosts. Negative sentiment revolves around small site sizes, lack of privacy, mosquitoes, limited water access, and occasionally noisy neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's natural beauty, water clarity for swimming, and proximity to hiking and biking trails. 'Wonderful location,' 'sites are well maintained,' and 'great spot for...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Negative feedback includes: 'Sites are small,' 'Bathrooms are disgusting,' and 'Mosquitoes couldn’t have been worse.' Other concerns include the long walk to potable water and a lack of privacy.
Based on 39 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water containers due to the distance from campsites to the water pump. Use bug repellent to mitigate mosquitoes. Avoid Google Maps directions to the dam and follow signs to stay on...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews emphasize swimming and water activities, while off-season reviews highlight the quiet and solitude. Mosquitoes and flies are more prevalent in warmer months.
Based on 39 reviewsCamper Quotes
'No cell service, but that was a plus for us,' 'Wonderful location! Even though the reservoir was low, the swimming was excellent,' 'Vault toilets were clean and didn’t stink at all.'
Based on 39 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews include comments about the flatness and size of sites: 'Site 6 is not level,' 'Site 4 looked much flatter,' 'Site 12 is the best in the campground.' Sites near bathrooms may...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews mention challenges such as the long walk to potable water and vault toilets being the only restroom option. 'Accessible potable water requires a hike,' limiting options for...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews mention pets enjoying the natural setting: 'Went here with my dog in May of 2023, it’s the happiest I’ve ever seen him!'
Based on 39 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025