Cougar Reservoir Hot Springs
Wikipedia's title for this place is Terwilliger Hot Springs; the record calls it Cougar Reservoir Hot Springs, and Cougar Hot Springs is a third name. It is a set of geothermal pools within the Willamette National Forest, Lane County, Oregon, about 26 miles from Oakridge and, by Wikipedia's count, 53 miles east of Eugene. The water runs hot, at the upper edge of a comfortable soak. Open to the public on Forest Service ground.
The pools drain into Rider Creek, which feeds Cougar Reservoir. Aufderheide Drive, also known as Forest Service Road 19, is close. The record measures the spring at under a hundred feet from the road, while Wikipedia says about a quarter mile, so expect some walking. Low elevation, wet, with substantial winter snow. Slide Creek campground is under a mile away.
Winter, December through February, is when the record says to come. It is hot enough that you should ease in and get out if you feel light-headed. Camping at Slide Creek is very close. The record carries no fee, though check current Forest Service notices.
The Terwilliger name comes from Wikipedia's entry, which also lists Cougar Hot Springs. The record's own name ties it to the reservoir it drains toward. The USGS keeps it in its thermal inventory.
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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 clos...
Cougar Reservoir Hot Springs is road-accessible, so you can bring more gear. The water runs hot, so extra hydration is key.
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