Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities. Learn more
Access Site OR

Slide Creek Campground

East Fork South Fork McKenzie River - Cougar Reservoir Smith Creek South Fork Mckenzie River

Source: oregon_gov Updated 1 year ago

City: Rainbow, OR
County: Lane County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 44.07646000, -122.22598330
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
Whitewater Run
III-IV Take-out McKenzie, South Fork - Dutch Oven Camp to Cougar Reservoir (Slide Creek Day Use Area)
View Run
Current Conditions
About This Access Site
Slide Creek Campground offers a convenient access point to the East Fork South Fork McKenzie River near Cougar Reservoir in the Willamette National Forest. The facility provides a boat ramp, ample parking, and day-use amenities including vault toilets and drinking water, making it suitable for kayakers, canoeists, and motorboaters. A swimming beach is also available for those looking to cool off.

Located near the scenic McKenzie River corridor about 55 miles east of McKenzie Bridge on Highway 126, this access point sits in a beautiful forest setting with mixed conifers and proximity to notable recreation areas. The site works well as either a launching point for downstream paddling or as a base camp—nearby campgrounds like Sunnyside and French Pete offer additional lodging options. Anglers also frequent the area for trout fishing opportunities. Note that the nearest group camping facilities charge $75 per night and require advance reservations through Recreation.gov.
Federal Facility Information
541-822-3381 Free Access Reservations Available

Overview
Horse Creek Group Campground is located on the banks of Horse Creek. The rushing water and tall Douglas fir trees offer a cool, shady spot to enjoy the outdoors.

A picnic area offers a great spot for grilling and group gatherings.Recreation
Fishing in Horse Creek is an enjoyable pastime. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trailhead is nearby, offering fun-filled hiking and biking...

Overview
Horse Creek Group Campground is located on the banks of Horse Creek. The rushing water and tall Douglas fir trees offer a cool, shady spot to enjoy the outdoors.

A picnic area offers a great spot for grilling and group gatherings.Recreation
Fishing in Horse Creek is an enjoyable pastime. The McKenzie River National Recreation Trailhead is nearby, offering fun-filled hiking and biking opportunities. The 26-mile trail boasts wonderful scenery along the river, and is an easy hike for all ages. There are also numerous developed boat launches that provide access to the McKenzie River.Facilities
Horse Creek accommodates up to 100 campers and 23 vehicles. The campground comes with drinking water, picnic tables, vault toilets and campfire rings. Visitors need to bring their own firewood. Natural Features
The campground sits along Horse Creek among Douglas fir and Western Red Cedar. The creek flows into the McKenzie River, a 90-mile tributary that transports snowmelt from the Cascade Range to the Willamette Valley.

Set along the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains, gorgeous, lush mountain landscapes are found in every direction.
Nearby Attractions
Cougar Reservoir is about 10 miles southwest and boasts excellent boating opportunities.

Read More Read Less
Nearby Campgrounds (8 within 10 miles)
SUNNYSIDE CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
FRENCH PETE CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
HORSE CREEK GROUP CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
COUGAR CROSSING CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
LOOKOUT CAMPGROUND AND BOAT LAUNCH - WILLAMETTE
On-site Reservable
HARD ROCK CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
RED DIAMOND CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
Cougar Crossing Campground
On-site
Nearby Recreation Areas
Cougar Lake Located within
Willamette National Forest Located within
McKenzie River Corridor Located within
Blue River Lake Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
LOOKOUT CAMPGROUND AND BOAT LAUNCH - WILLAMETTE On-site