How much does camping cost at Slide Creek?

Camping fees at Slide Creek range from $22-$44/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Slide Creek first-come first-served or reservation?

Slide Creek accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Slide Creek before I book?

Yes! Slide Creek has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Slide Creek?

Slide Creek is open April 16 - September 6, 2025. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Slide Creek?

Slide Creek does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Slide Creek have?

Slide Creek has 15 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Slide Creek?

Yes, pets are allowed at Slide Creek. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Slide Creek?

Slide Creek offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Slide Creek?

Popular activities at Slide Creek include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Slide Creek

Q: Can I have a campfire at Slide Creek?

Fire policies at Slide Creek: Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase ($7) but overpriced compared to local stores.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.11

88 reviews

, Blue River, OR, 97413, USA

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:RV Camping Oregon

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$22 - $44/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Peak season dates ar...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on American Land and Leisure Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Only 15 sites — this campground fills fast. Set up a free alert.

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,700 ft

Price

$22 - $44/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

15 campsites

Season

Peak season dates ar...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on American Land and Leisure Set up a cancellation alert Official Website

Get Directions

Slide Creek

$22.00 - $44.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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...

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

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Provider

801-226-3564.

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What Campers Say

4.11

Satisfactory

Based on 88 reviews

38 Google reviews

Most mentioned

locationhikingwatersites

Some mention

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"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."

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Campground Map

, Blue River, OR, 97413, USA

Slide Creek

, Blue River, OR, 97413, USA

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).

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.

Best Time to Camp at Slide Creek

Summer brings daytime highs in the 70s to low 80s°F and cool mornings in the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. Water temperatures hit the mid-60s°F in July and August, warm enough for swimming and comfortable kayaking. The boat ramp and reservoir are fully usable during these months. Expect moderate to busy crowds on holiday weekends, but weekdays stay quiet. Spring and fall bring rain and occasional snow flurries. Pack layers if you're visiting outside peak summer.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season: swimming, boating and warm days; mosquitoes and flies can be heavy.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 16 - September 6, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Peak season dates are April 16 - September 6, 2025. Out of season reservations are not available.
Current Alerts: Seasonal road closures may affect accessibility.

About Slide Creek

Slide Creek Campground sits on the eastern shore of Cougar Reservoir, a 1,280-acre lake at 1,700 feet elevation in the Willamette National Forest. The campground has 15 sites, a boat ramp, vault toilets, and a hand-pump water source. Fees run $22-44 per night. It's close to Terwilliger Hot Springs and offers easy access to fishing, swimming, and trail systems.

Slide Creek Campground accommodates tent camping, trailers, and RVs, with a focus on rustic facilities. There is also a group site available.

Historical Significance

Terwilliger Hot Springs sits a short distance from the campground. The naturally heated pools have drawn travelers for generations, making the area a longtime gathering spot for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs in the 70s to low 80s°F and cool mornings in the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. Water temperatures hit the mid-60s°F in July and August, warm enough for swimming and comfortable kayaking. The boat ramp and reservoir are fully usable during these months. Expect moderate to busy crowds on holiday weekends, but weekdays stay quiet. Spring and fall bring rain and occasional snow flurries. Pack layers if you're visiting outside peak summer.

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 SceneryCougar Reservoir stretches between forested ridges, its clear water reflecting Douglas fir slopes and volcanic peaks. The surrounding terrain includes steep canyon walls, narrow gorges, and cascading creeks that feed the reservoir. Wildlife sightings include Roosevelt elk, black bears, and bald eagles. The forest is dense enough to provide shade at most sites, though views of the water vary depending on your spot.

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.

Scenic ViewsSome campsites offer views of Cougar Reservoir. "Site 12 at least was big enough for at least 3 tents, with a great view of the river through the trees," shares one camper.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodging accommodations are available; however, the group site offers space for larger gatherings.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are specified.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

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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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe 15 sites are small to moderately sized, with some clustered close together. Reviews mention limited space between sites and tight quarters for RVs or large setups. A few group areas offer more room. The water pump is a bit of a walk from most sites, so bring containers. Site 11 is particularly small.

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.

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.

Site 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.

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 SitesChoose 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 gets frequent praise for its size and views. One reviewer notes it has plenty of room for multiple tents. Site 4 is described as flat, despite what Recreation.gov might indicate. Some sites are grouped close together with limited privacy, so check the layout if seclusion matters to you.

Need help booking Slide Creek?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Slide Creek Campground offers basic amenities suitable for tent, trailer, and RV camping. The campground features potable water accessible via a hand pump spring located a short hike from the restrooms, vault toilets, picnic tables, and campfire rings. Additional amenities include a boat ramp, parking for boat trailers, and a swimming beach. There is no running water, showers, or flush toilets, as highlighted in reviews: 'There are no showers or running water at any of the sites.' Firewood is available for purchase, although reviews note higher prices within the campground compared to nearby stores.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Group Sites

RV details

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

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitos 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.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsThe campground does not have flush toilets; vault toilets are the only restroom option available.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase ($7) but overpriced compared to local stores.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Noise regulations are not consistently enforced, according to reviews.

Emergency Services, Blue River, OR

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but there is no mention of recycling facilities.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to Cougar Reservoir, featuring a boat ramp and swimming areas.

Camp 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.

Weather at Slide Creek

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.1

88 reviews

Satisfactory

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 88 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 88 reviews

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 88 reviews

Pro 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 88 reviews

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 88 reviews

Camper 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 88 reviews

Site-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 88 reviews

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 88 reviews

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 88 reviews

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Nearby Campgrounds

57600 McKenzie Highway, Blue River, OR 97413, USA

Sunnyside Campground sits in a grove of towering conifers along Cougar Reservoir's southeastern shore at 1,700 feet elevation. The 10 tent-only sites run $18 per night and offer strong privacy, though the steep access road isn't suitable for motorhomes or trailers. There's no potable water, so bring everything you'll need for drinking, cooking, and washing.