It’s no surprise that Cougar Hot Springs is one of the most popular in the state of Oregon. Also known as Terwilliger Hot Springs, these are a must if your in the area.
Luckily after the Terwilliger forest fire of 2018, Terwilliger Hot Springs survived. It doesn’t look as lush and green as it once did, but it is managed by a private company now. Due to the popularity, this regulation handles the amount of people coming to visit each year.
So what to expect? Let’s get into it.
Visiting Cougar Hot Springs
Since cougar hot springs are regulated, you must pay a fee to enter the hot springs. They are open from sunrise to sunset; be sure to check on changing times and closures before visiting. Call the local ranger: 541-822-3381.
We soaked sunrise and was able to pay as the host came into work when we left.
Cash and credit card is accepted for the $7 fee per person. This fee pays to manage the site, keep it clean, and ensure it is safe for guests.
Terwilliger hot springs often endures landslides, so it is also important to check for road closures and alternate routes. The road is not maintained, so proceed at your own caution. The forest service recommends to avoid during winter weather conditions.
Yes, the hot springs are actually hot. The top pool is 112 degrees getting colder as you go lower. There is a stream next to the hot springs if you need to rinse off in some very cold water to regulate your temperature. It is important to bring water and stay hydrated for your visit!
What is cool about visiting Terwilliger Hot Springs is that you can do an entire hot springs tour if you want! Check out my blog here on that itinerary.
Camping at Terwilliger Hot Springs
To save yourself on waking up extremely early to soak at sunrise, camping nearby at Cougar Crossing Campground grants you a short 5 minute drive uphill to the hot springs.
There are only 11 campsites at this campground, but half are first come first serve. We came in the fall when it was quite cold at night and only had 1 other group camping with us.
Since I live in Eugene I usually drive the same day, but this was a nice way to ensure more privacy. Although getting hot springs to yourself is always a roll of the dice.
The campground isn’t very private, so if that’s not your thing I wouldn’t advise staying here in the warmer months.
Up the road on HWY126 McKenzie Bridge Campground is another option-with 20 sites available, some you can reserve ahead of time.
Lodging : Cougar Hot Springs
If you’re looking to visit Cougar Hot Springs and stay someplace cozy, luckily there are a couple options upstream along the McKenzie River.
Horse Creek Lodge in McKenzie Bridge, where we got married is 23 miles from the hot spring. Horse Creek has cabins and tent and RV sites available for rental year round. Their cabins are cozy and dog friendly! We love visiting in the colder months to enjoy the wood burning fireplace. Tell the owners I sent you!
Laloma Lodge is across the street from Horse Creek in McKenzie Bridge. They have adorable retro inspired cabins along the McKenzie River. These cabins run $200 a night, are dog friendly, and they sell out!
Caddisfly Resort is where some of my family stayed when we got married and they loved it! There are 3 charming redwood cabins along the McKenzie River. Be sure to call for reservations.
One of three small cabins at Horse Creek Lodge
Leave No Trace
When visiting any hot spring it is important to leave no trace when you visit. Rules to abide by when visiting:
-no glass allowed; put your beverage in a reusable container that can’t break in the hot spring.
-pack out what you pack in. It is better to eat food away from the hot springs to keep it free of critters.
-Do not put lotion or oils on before entering the hot spring or while in the hot spring. It can contaminate the water.
-no cooking near the hot springs. There is a parking lot that is best for this with trash receptacles. If the trash is full bring your trash home with you.
Photo by Johannah Hendrickson
What To Pack
When I first visited hot springs in Oregon I was stunned to see naked people. This is very common here, but you don’t have to go nude if you don’t want to. Items you want to have with you:
-Water and electrolytes. Just like sitting in a hot tub you will feel dehydrated-be sure to hydrate while soaking and afterwards.
-Pack your Hydroflask reusable water bottle for this adventure!
-Towel and swimsuit. Maybe even a robe! The hike in is short so depending on weather sometimes people hike out in a robe.
–Teva water shoes-something easy to change in and out of. Plus it’s nice to walk around the slippery rocks in shoes you can get wet.
-Rainjacket-depending on the season you might want to layer up as you hike in an out of the hot springs. I prefer a Salomon Women’s Insulated Jacket.
Have you visited before? What was your experience? Please leave a comment below.
Pin For Later!
