Updated September 6, 2026
By Chris LaVoie
If you have been waiting for a better time to visit Terwilliger Hot Springs, also known as Cougar Hot Springs, here is some welcome news: several major changes have made this beloved forest soaking spot easier to enjoy.
The hours are longer, the parking lot is larger, hosts now live at the entrance, and a bridge restoration project has reopened access in 2026. There are also a few important rule changes, especially for visitors traveling with dogs.
Tucked into the Willamette National Forest near Blue River, Oregon, Terwilliger Hot Springs remains one of the most memorable adventures along the McKenzie River. You still get the same mossy forest, mineral-rich water, and peaceful mountain setting. Now, you have a little more flexibility when planning your soak.
The big Terwilliger Hot Springs updates
Here is the quick version of what has changed:
- New hours: The springs are now open from sunrise until 10 p.m., rather than closing at dusk.
- Expanded parking: The parking lot has been enlarged to hold approximately twice as many vehicles.
- On-site hosts: Hosts now live at the entrance, providing a more visible presence and helping visitors understand the rules and access process.
- No dogs: Dogs are not allowed at Terwilliger Hot Springs. The only exception is a bona fide service animal, which must remain leashed and under control.
- Access restored: Bridge restoration work has been completed, and access reopened in 2026.
That later closing time is especially exciting. A soak beneath the tall Douglas firs has always felt magical, but having until 10 p.m. gives visitors more time to enjoy a late-afternoon drive, a sunset along Forest Road 19, or a relaxing evening soak before heading back to their lodging.
What makes Terwilliger Hot Springs special?
The experience begins before you reach the water. From the parking area, a short, scenic trail leads through the forest toward Rider Creek and the springs. The walk is roughly a half-mile, depending on which access description you follow, and includes packed gravel, soil, natural terrain, and some steeper sections.
Then the trees open up and the steam begins to rise.
Terwilliger Hot Springs is arranged in a series of natural soaking pools, with six tiers getting hotter as you move uphill. That makes it easy to find your comfort zone. Start in a cooler lower pool, work your way upward, or settle into one spot and let the forest do the rest.
The pools are clothing optional, so visitors should arrive prepared for a relaxed, respectful atmosphere. Give other guests privacy, keep voices low, and remember that the experience depends on everyone treating the place, and one another, with care.
This is not a commercial spa. There are no changing rooms, massage tables, or reservation slots waiting with your name on them. What you get instead is something much better: warm mineral water, old-growth forest, fresh mountain air, and the feeling that you have discovered a secret tucked into the hillside.
Bigger parking should make arrival easier, but arrive thoughtfully
The enlarged parking lot is one of the most practical improvements at Terwilliger Hot Springs. With room for approximately twice as many cars, visitors should have a better chance of finding a legal parking space during busy periods.
Still, this is a forest recreation site, not a large resort parking area. Please do not double-park, block traffic, or park along Forest Service Road 19. Vehicles parked along the road can create dangerous conditions for drivers, pedestrians, emergency vehicles, and other visitors.
The day-use fee includes the parking lot, trail, lagoon, and hot springs. If the lot is full, be patient and follow directions from the hosts at the entrance rather than creating an unsafe roadside parking situation.
On-site hosts bring a helpful new presence
Hosts now live at the entrance to Terwilliger Hot Springs. That is a significant change for a site that has historically required visitors to navigate the rules and access process largely on their own.
The hosts can help keep the arrival experience organized and remind visitors about capacity, timing, payment, parking, and site rules. Please remember that their presence does not change the basic character of the springs. Terwilliger is still a first-come, first-served public recreation site with a two-hour soak limit.
A friendly greeting, a quick question, or a reminder about a rule can help everyone have a better visit. Follow posted instructions and be respectful of the people helping care for this special place.
Dogs are no longer allowed
One of the most important changes is the new dog policy: dogs are not allowed at Terwilliger Hot Springs, including the trail and soaking area. The exception is for bona fide service animals, which must be leashed and under control at all times.
Please make arrangements for your dog before you leave home. Do not bring a pet to wait at the entrance, tie a dog near the trail, or take a dog toward the pools. This rule protects the peaceful experience, helps reduce conflicts in a crowded setting, and keeps the site safer for visitors and wildlife.
If you are exploring the area with a dog, consider planning a separate dog-friendly adventure elsewhere along the McKenzie River rather than bringing your pet to Terwilliger.
Know before you go
A little preparation will make your visit much smoother.
Terwilliger Hot Springs is open year-round for day use. The current hours are sunrise until 10 p.m., and the site is closed from 10 p.m. until sunrise. The fee is $12 per person for a two-hour pass for visitors ages 12 and older. Payment is made on-site.
Capacity is limited to 65 people at a time, and visits are first come, first served. Each visitor has a two-hour soak limit, so plan your arrival with some flexibility during popular weekends and holidays.
Alcohol is not allowed. Camping is restricted to developed campgrounds in the Cougar Recreation Area, so do not plan to sleep in the parking lot or near the pools.
Forest Service Road 19 is open seasonally but is not maintained for snow and ice during winter. Conditions can change quickly, so check the road before driving. The short trail can also become slippery or difficult when snow and ice are present.
And if you are combining your visit with a winter waterfall adventure, remember that snowy waterfall hikes should only be attempted by experienced snow hikers carrying proper equipment. Forest trails can be difficult to navigate, and winter conditions create significant safety risks.
Plan your 2026 soak
The completed bridge restoration and reopened access make this a great year to return to Terwilliger Hot Springs. With longer hours, more parking, and hosts at the entrance, the arrival experience should feel more organized while the heart of the adventure remains unchanged.
Bring water, a towel, sturdy footwear, and a good attitude. Leave alcohol and pets at home. Keep your visit within the two-hour limit, pack out what you pack in, and help protect the forest that makes this place so memorable.
For the latest information, visit the Terwilliger Hot Springs listing on Visit McKenzie River and check the Willamette National Forest’s official Terwilliger Hot Springs page. You can also contact the McKenzie River Ranger Station at 541-822-3381 before your trip.
The springs are warmer. The evenings are longer. The road back in is open.
Looks like it is time to grab your towel and go exploring.
Frequently asked questions
What are the new hours at Terwilliger Hot Springs?
Terwilliger Hot Springs is open from sunrise until 10 p.m. The site is closed to all use from 10 p.m. until sunrise.
How much does Terwilliger Hot Springs cost?
The current fee is $12 per person for two hours for visitors ages 12 and older. The fee area includes the hot springs, trail, lagoon, and parking lot.
Do I need a reservation?
No. Terwilliger Hot Springs is first come, first served. Capacity is limited to 65 people at a time, and each visitor has a two-hour soak limit.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Dogs are not allowed at Terwilliger Hot Springs. Bona fide service animals are permitted but must be leashed and under control.
Is Terwilliger Hot Springs open in winter?
Yes, the hot springs are open year-round. However, Forest Road 19 is not maintained for snow and ice in winter, and the trail may become difficult or hazardous in snowy conditions.
Are alcohol and camping allowed?
No. Alcohol is prohibited, and camping is restricted to developed campgrounds in the Cougar Recreation Area. Terwilliger Hot Springs is for day use only.
