About MONA
Overview Known for fishing, boating, canoeing and other water sports, Mona campground is located on the northwest shore of Blue River Reservoir. The campground is situated on a long, narrow strip of mixed conifers along the shore, the thick vegetation secludes each campsite, allowing for privacy. Slopes of mixed conifers and other trees surround the area. Reservations are available May through mid-September. They can be made up to six months in advance, but must be made at least four days prior to your intended arrival date.Recreation Fishing, boating, swimming, and water skiing on Blue River Reservoir draw campers here. There is hiking on Buck Mountain Trail and Lookout Creek Old Growth Trail. Sightseeing is popular on the West Cascades National Scenic Byway.Facilities Mona Campground is popular for water play and fishing on Blue River Reservoir. There are 20 single and two double sites with tables and fire rings. Drinking water, vault toilets, and firewood for sale are provided. There is a host onsite. The campground road and parking spurs are paved, with mostly flat sites that accommodate either tents or trailers/RVs.Natural Features The campground sits on the northeastern shore of Blue River Reservoir and can be accessed by driving the West Cascades National Scenic Byway. It is located in the Willamette National Forest on the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains. Nearby Attractions Come for water play or fishing at Blue River Reservoir or for exploring the nearby trails and Scenic Byway.
How to Get There
Located 51 miles east of Eugene, OR. Follow Hwy 126 to the east, take a left turn on Forest Road 15 at Blue River Reservoir turn off. Follow Blue River Reservoir RD approximately 4 miles, take left turn across bridge to access campground. The campground entrance is on the left.
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 (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun 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 MONA
Heading to MONA? 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 MONA?
No central reservation system listed for MONA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233341) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to MONA?
Located 51 miles east of Eugene, OR. Follow Hwy 126 to the east, take a left turn on Forest Road 15 at Blue River Reservoir turn off. Follow Blue River Reservoir RD approximately 4 miles, take left turn across bridge to access campground. The campground entrance is on the left.
How do I contact MONA?
You can reach the park at phone: 801-226-3564 or email: Help.Willamette.McKenzieRiver@AmericanLL.com.
References & Official Resources
