Sunnyside Campground
4.6112 reviews57600 McKenzie Highway, Blue River, OR 97413, USA
Sunnyside Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for all campsites during the peak season is $18. Out-of-season bookings are unavailable.
About this campground
Tucked into a magnificent grove of towering conifers along Cougar Reservoir's southeastern shores, Sunnyside Campground offers an intimate escape at 1,700 feet elevation. This secluded haven rewards adventurous spirits who navigate its steep entrance—please note that motorhomes and trailers should seek other options due to the challenging access road. Once you arrive, you'll find yourself in a pristine wilderness setting with vault toilets, garbage collection, fire rings, and picnic tables nestled among the trees. While you'll need to bring your own drinking water, the campground provides effortless access to the shimmering lake waters just steps away.
The campground caters to tent camping and offers standard nonelectric sites. Motorhomes and trailers are not recommended due to the steep entrance. "Motorhomes and trailers not recommended due to the steep entrance into the campground."
Historical SignificanceSunnyside Campground rests within the storied Willamette National Forest, where generations of outdoor enthusiasts have come to reconnect with nature's grandeur. This corner of Oregon has long served as a recreational sanctuary, where the forest's timeless rhythms continue to inspire visitors seeking respite from modern life's demands.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Pacific Northwest's gentle rhythm of seasons at Sunnyside. Summer days unfold with mild temperatures perfect for hiking and water activities, while evenings bring that refreshing mountain coolness that makes campfire gatherings magical. Spring and fall paint the landscape with nature's watercolors—expect occasional rain showers that nurture the lush forest canopy and fill the air with the sweet scent of cedar and fir.
ElevationPerched at 1,700 feet above sea level, Sunnyside Campground occupies that sweet spot where mountain air stays crisp without being harsh. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate—cool enough to escape summer's heat yet accessible enough for comfortable camping throughout the season. The forested setting at this altitude supports a rich tapestry of plant and animal life.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the mirror-like waters of Cougar Reservoir reflecting the surrounding peaks, while the South Fork of the McKenzie River whispers its ancient songs nearby. The campground's coniferous cathedral provides natural shelter, with Douglas firs and cedars creating a living green ceiling overhead. Spring and summer bring spectacular wildflower displays—look for lupines, rhododendrons, and Indian paintbrush splashing color through the understory. Keep your camera ready for frequent wildlife encounters, from chattering Douglas squirrels to soaring osprey fishing the reservoir's depths.
Geological RegionSunnyside Campground showcases the volcanic legacy of the Cougar Recreation Area within the majestic Willamette National Forest. Ancient lava flows shaped these mountains and valleys, creating the dramatic landscape that cradles today's Cougar Reservoir and nourishes the South Fork of the McKenzie River. The volcanic soils support dense coniferous forests and stunning wildflower meadows, while the varied terrain provides habitat for an impressive array of Pacific Northwest wildlife. This geological diversity makes every trail a journey through millions of years of Earth's history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities were not mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeReviews highlight that campsites vary in size, with some being large and providing ample space. "Ours was a larger one and we had lots of extra space." "We stayed in #10 and campsite was very spacious and secluded."
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is a strong feature of Sunnyside, with many sites being secluded. "Fairly secluded campground." "We stayed in campsite #10 and it was pretty secluded from the other sites."
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsite #10 for privacy and ample space. Sites #8 and #9 are recommended for larger groups.
Best CampsitesCampsite #10 is frequently praised for its spaciousness and seclusion ('We stayed in campsite #10 and it was pretty secluded from the other sites.'). Sites #8 and #9 may be connected for larger groups.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights allowed per visit and up to 14 nights total within rolling 60 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Limit one vehicle per campsite
- additional vehicles incur fees.
Groups
Group site details were not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 10 individual sites with vault toilets centrally located and access to hiking trails nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 16 to September 6 for reservations. Out-of-season bookings are not available.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites are available but limited. Sites tend to fill up during peak season weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (within 1 day of check-in) forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sunnyside Campground provides access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, and swimming in Cougar Reservoir. "Good swimming in the reservoir." "Hiking in the area is outstanding in nearby Three Sisters Wilderness, along Rebel Creek." The campground's proximity to Terwilliger Hot Springs offers campers a relaxing day-use area.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound near the campground, with trails such as Rebel Creek, French Pete Trail, Box Canyon Trail, and Indian Ridge Lookout providing options for all skill levels. "Hiking in the area is outstanding in nearby Three Sisters Wilderness, along Rebel Creek."Swimming
Swimming is possible in Cougar Reservoir, offering a refreshing experience. "Good swimming in the reservoir."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with the campground situated in a natural area rich in flora and fauna. "Wildflower and wildlife viewing are abundant."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within provided fire rings. Firewood should be sourced locally to prevent invasive species.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include steep terrain, bear activity, and seasonal weather conditions such as heavy rain or snow.
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
Closest emergency services include McKenzie River Clinic (14 miles, approximately 30 minutes), McKenzie Bridge Fire Department (14 miles, approximately 30 minutes), and Lane County Sheriff’s Office (50 miles, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes in Springfield).
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 16 to September 6.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground, making it convenient for campers to manage waste. Recycling facilities were not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated alongside Cougar Reservoir, the campground offers easy lake access.
Common complaintsCommon complaints from reviews include limited restroom facilities ('There is only one restroom for 10 camp sites which can get messy'), lack of potable water ('No water available'), and occasional dirty bathrooms ('The bathroom was disgusting but that's kind of to be expected').
HostCampground hosts are described as helpful and attentive ('Camp host was so helpful').
Campground Map
57600 McKenzie Highway, Blue River, OR 97413, USA
Driving directionsFrom Blue River, travel 4 miles east on Hwy 126 to Aufderheide Drive (FS road 19). Continue on Aufderheide Drive for 9.5 miles; turn left on FS road 1900-500 for .25 miles.
The campground entrance is steep, making it unsuitable for motorhomes and trailers. Roads leading to the campground are paved, but the final stretch involves a narrow forest road.Nearby places
Blue River (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes), McKenzie Bridge (14 miles, approximately 30 minutes), Springfield (50 miles, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies are available in Blue River (4 miles, approximately 10 minutes). Larger stores and fuel options are available in Springfield (50 miles, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes).
Camper Reviews
4.6
12 reviews
Sunnyside Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Sunnyside Campground receives largely positive reviews for its natural beauty, quiet atmosphere, and recreational opportunities. Common themes include spacious and secluded campsites, clean amenities, and proximity to notable attractions like Terwilliger Hot Springs. "Beautiful camp ground and amazing views." "Host was amazing and site was clean and orderly." Some negative points include maintenance issues with vault toilets and the lack of potable water. "The bathroom was disgusting but that's kind of to be expected."
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects noted by users include the natural scenery, spacious campsites, helpful hosts, and proximity to hiking trails and hot springs. "Beautiful camp ground and amazing views." "Host was...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the lack of potable water and occasional cleanliness issues of the vault toilets. "There is no potable (drinking) water at Sunnyside." "The bathroom was disgusting but that's kind...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users highlight the importance of bringing sufficient water due to the lack of potable water. It is also recommended to explore nearby trails and hot springs for a complete experience....
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Peak season reviews generally highlight the campground's tranquility and array of recreational opportunities. "Had a absolutely wonderful experience with very few people around." "Quiet with well...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is a beautiful camping ground. Feels like staying in a rainforest with tall trees and ferns around." "We stayed in #10 and campsite was very spacious and secluded." "Fairly secluded campground....
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 010 receives positive feedback for its spaciousness and seclusion, with guests noting proximity to vault toilets. "We stayed in campsite #10 and it was pretty secluded from the other sites."...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility reviews were not provided.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Users note that the campground is dog-friendly, adding to its appeal for pet owners. "Dog friendly."
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025