USFS · Group Campground · Fee
Camping groups looking for a more rustic riverside experience will enjoy Red Diamond Campground. This small site is located adjacent to the South Fork of the McKenzie River and offers a quiet, primitive setting. The campground which accommodates up to 25 people and 10 vehicles provides plenty of shade for warm, summer days. The campground is laid out on one loop with picnic tables, campfire rings and ample parking. Portable toilets and trash collection are provided. No water is available, so be sure to bring your own supply. Reservations only, via Rec.gov. Fishing, kayaking and swimming are three popular activities on the river. Picnicking is also a lot of fun at the campground. Hiking trails can be found in the surrounding area and the Cougar Reservoir is just a short drive north. Nearby is the Box Canyon Trail Area with excellent opportunities for mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. Try Chucksney Mountain Trail, Grasshopper Mountain Trail and Roaring Ridge.
From the USFS.Official page
No. Red Diamond Group Campground charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through recreation.gov.
From Blue River, OR, travel 4 miles east on Highway 126 to Aufderheide Drive (Forest Service Road 19).Proceed south on Aufderheide Drive, taking the Y and climbing to the top of Cougar Reservoir. Continue south on Aufderheide Drive for 13 miles to Red Diamond Group Campsite.
Camping is restricted to developed campgroundsCamping is not allowed more than 14 days in a 60 day period.Check-in time: 2:00 pm or later. Check-out time: 1:00 pmUse of chainsaws in the campground is prohibitedDogs MUST be on leash at all times within the
No other services within 50 mi on the record.
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.