About SLIDE CREEK
Overview Slide Creek Campground is a unique camping destination just 50 miles from Eugene, Oregon. Located on the east bank of the Cougar Reservoir, it is known for handy access to boating and many water activities. It is also near Terwilliger Hot Springs, a pristine area with 5 soaking pools fed by the Rider Creek waterfall.Recreation Activities on the reservoir include water skiing, swimming, fishing and canoeing. Anglers might catch some quality rainbow trout. The campground is close to a large network of hiking trails in the Olallie Trail Area. Half of the trails are open to biking as well.Facilities Both campground and the day use area guests have access to drinking water, vault toilets, a boat ramp, ample parking and a swimming beach. A separate parking lot is available for boat trailers. The facility has 15 campsites that can accommodate tents, trailers or RVs and come equipped with campfire rings and picnic tables.Natural Features The Willamette National Forest stretches for 110 miles with varied landscapes of high mountains, narrow canyons, cascading streams, and wooded slopes. Native wildlife includes Roosevelt elk, black bear, bald eagles, black tail deer and bobcats. Cougar Reservoir sits at 1,700 feet in elevation and is an estimated 1,280 acres. Some campsites have views of Cougar Reservoir and all sites are an easy walk to the swimming area.
How to Get There
From 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.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SLIDE CREEK
Heading to SLIDE CREEK? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SLIDE CREEK?
No central reservation system listed for SLIDE CREEK. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233339) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SLIDE CREEK?
From 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.
How do I contact SLIDE CREEK?
You can reach the park at phone: 801-226-3564 or email: Help.Willamette.McKenzieRiver@AmericanLL.com.
References & Official Resources
