Cougar Hot Springs: A Hot Spring Oasis in the Oregon's Forest

Nestled in a forest canyon of the Willamette National Forest, Terwilliger (Cougar) Hot Springs is a popular destination for all who enjoy bathing in a natural geothermal spa surrounded by the stunning beauty of an old-growth forest.

The hot springs feature a series of cascading pools built from rocks and logs, creating a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape. Thermal water emerges from a small cove at a steamy 116°F, feeding the uppermost—and hottest—pool. The water then flows into five additional pools, each slightly cooler than the one above. The crystal-clear blue water contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green forest, offering a serene and picturesque soaking experience.

The hot springs are accessible via an easy quarter-mile trail from the parking area kiosk. Visitors must pay a small cash fee before beginning their journey to this scenic oasis.

While no drinking water or other services are available, the site does provide composting toilets and a changing shelter near the pools, as well as a vault toilet at the parking area.

This is a day-use site, open from sunrise to sunset. Every Thursday from 8 am to 12 pm pools are closed for cleaning and maintenance.

Expect heavier traffic on weekends and holidays.

Officially named Terwilliger Hot Springs by the Forest Service, the site honors Hiram Terwilliger, an early settler who discovered and used the springs in the 1860s. Despite filing a mineral-rights claim in 1906, his request was denied, preserving the area for public use.

The hot springs were largely isolated until the 1960s, when the construction of Cougar Dam and improved roads made them more accessible. This accessibility led to a surge in popularity

Between the 1960s and 1990s, there were hundreds of people bathing in the hot springs and camping nearby. During the summer months, the area could see over a thousand visitors at once.

The increase in visitors brought various issues, including loud night parties, littering, drug use, alcohol abuse, loitering, panhandling, and tragically, a murder in 1996.

In 1998 the Forest Service implemented stricter regulations. The introduction of fee system for day-use, camping pr0ohibition within 9 miles of the hot springs, a night-closure policy, and an alcohol ban helped to make Cougar Hot Springs cleaner, safer, and more attractive for hot spring lovers.

The scenic Highway 126, which follows the beautiful McKenzie River, leads to other great places, including nearby hot springs.

Belknap Hot Springs is a developed resort with multiple pools, a secret garden, and other amenities.

Meanwhile, Deer Creek (Bigelow) Hot Springs provides a more rugged, natural soaking experience.

For those interested in history and conservation, visit the Leaburg Hatchery and Dam, where you can learn about fish conservation while enjoying picturesque river views.

Don’t miss the iconic Goodpasture Covered Bridge, one of Oregon's most photographed landmarks.

Finally, make sure to stop by the Cougar Reservoir Dam, where you can take in breathtaking views of the sparkling reservoir and surrounding forest.

Location: 55 miles east of Eugene • Cascade Mountains • Oregon • USA
Open: Year-round from sunrise to sunset
Development: Primitive
Clothing: Optional
Amenities: Changing shelter and compost toilets; Vault toilet at the parking area

Hiking distance: 0.25 miles
Road Access: Any vehicle
Day-use: Yes, fees apply
Managed by: US Forest Service

Elevation: 1,700 ft (518 m)

Water T° (source): 116°F (47°C)
Water T° (pools): 95°F (35°C) to 110°F (43°C)
Water acidity level: Neutral (pH=7.76)
Springs type: Sodium Chloride
Flow rate: 29 gallon/min (110 l/min)
Chemical used: None

Average dissolved solids: 1,800 Mg/L

Cations

Sodium (Na) - 392 Mg/L
Calcium (Ca) - 225 Mg/L
Potassium (K) - 6.3 Mg/L
Boron (B) - 5.1 Mg/L
Lithium (Li) - 0.52 Mg/L
Magnesium - 0.1 Mg/L

Anions

Chloride (Cl) - 788 Mg/L
Sulfate (SO4) - 260 Mg/L
Silica (SiO2) - 50 Mg/L
Carbonate (CO3) - 21 Mg/L
Fluoride (F) - 0.8 Mg/L