Pine Meadows Campground

For Oregonians seeking a refreshing escape that combines the tranquility of lakeside living with abundant outdoor activities, Pine Meadows Campground on Cottage Grove Lake is a cherished destination. Nestled in the low foothills of the Calapooya Mountains, this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility offers a serene environment amidst a diverse landscape of marshland, coniferous forests, and grasslands. It’s a place where the rolling hills of the Willamette Valley meet the shimmering waters of a beautiful lake, creating an ideal setting for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Pine Meadows Campground is celebrated for its well-maintained sites and family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors often commend the spaciousness of the campsites, many offering direct lake views, perfect for launching a personal pontoon boat or simply enjoying the scenery. As one camper noted about site 25, it was "Nice site with lots of space. Has a root bump in the pavement pad, but it actually leveled us on that side. It is a back in lake front and perfect for getting out personal pontoon boats to the water." This highlights the practical and enjoyable aspects that make this campground a recurring favorite for many.

It's important for prospective campers to know that Pine Meadows operates under specific U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations, including a strict alcohol prohibition. This rule, clearly stated during the reservation process, is in place to ensure a safe and family-friendly environment for all visitors. While occasional issues with rule adherence by other campers can arise, the fundamental commitment to providing a natural and enjoyable experience remains central to Pine Meadows' appeal. With nearly 100 sites, including options right on the lake, and amenities designed for comfort, Pine Meadows Campground is a wonderful choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Oregon’s natural beauty with peace of mind.

Pine Meadows Campground is conveniently located at 75166 Cottage Grove Reservoir Rd, Cottage Grove, OR 97424, USA. This places it directly on the shores of Cottage Grove Lake, approximately 4 miles east of the city of Cottage Grove in Oregon's southern Willamette Valley.

The campground is easily accessible from Interstate 5, with clear signage guiding visitors from either northbound (Exit 170) or southbound (Exit 172) directions. After exiting, you'll travel a few miles east, then turn onto Cottage Grove Reservoir Road, following it for about 2.5 miles directly to the campground. The roads leading to the campground are well-paved and generally suitable for all vehicle types, including RVs and trailers. While the campground offers a sense of being away from it all, its proximity to Cottage Grove (just a 15-minute drive) means that essential supplies, groceries, and dining options are within easy reach. This balance of natural immersion and convenient access makes Pine Meadows an excellent choice for Oregon locals seeking a getaway without a lengthy journey.

• Campsites: Pine Meadows Campground features nearly 100 campsites (95-97 total), accommodating both tents and RVs. Many sites offer scenic lake views. Sites 1-92 are standard sites with paved parking spurs, while primitive sites (A-O) are in a separate loop with more limited amenities (dirt/gravel spurs). Each site includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.

• Electrical and Water Hookups: Many standard sites (specifically 34) offer electrical hookups with water. Note that water may be shut off in these sites during the winter season (late fall to mid-March).

• Restrooms and Showers: The main campground (A-Loop) provides modern facilities including flush toilets and hot showers, available seasonally. Primitive sites have limited amenities with no flush toilets or showers.

• Dump Station: An RV dump station is available on-site for convenient waste disposal, a crucial amenity for RV campers.

• Potable Water: Drinking water spigots are available throughout the campground during the open season.

• Children's Play Area: A dedicated playground area is available for children, ensuring entertainment for younger campers.

• Swim Area: The campground features a designated swim beach for safe and enjoyable lake swimming.

• Reservations: Sites can be reserved, with a minimum stay of 2 nights on weekends and 3 nights on holiday weekends. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

• Alcohol Prohibition: As a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers facility, alcohol is strictly prohibited at all Cottage Grove Lake areas, including Pine Meadows. Campers must acknowledge this rule during reservation.

• Vehicle Limits: A maximum of two vehicles (included in the reservation fee) and eight individuals are allowed per campsite. No additional visitors or roadside parking are permitted.

• Lakeside Location & Access: The primary highlight of Pine Meadows is its direct access to Cottage Grove Lake. Many campsites are right on the shoreline, perfect for launching small personal watercraft like pontoon boats or kayaks directly from your site. Other boat ramps (Lakeside Park, Wilson Creek Park) are nearby for larger vessels.

• Excellent Water Recreation: Cottage Grove Lake is ideal for a variety of water activities, including boating, fishing (with bass, trout, and other species), swimming at the designated beach, and paddleboarding.

• Bird Watching Hotspot: The diverse natural setting, including marshland and grasslands, makes Pine Meadows a fantastic location for bird watching. It’s a designated stop along the Big River Loop of the Willamette Valley Birding Trail, with opportunities to spot waterfowl, bald eagles, osprey, and rare birds like the purple martin and yellow-breasted chat.

• Spacious and Shaded Sites: Campers often praise the generous size of the sites and the presence of mature trees that provide ample shade, offering a cool retreat during summer heat.

• Clean Facilities and Strong Presence of Rangers/Hosts: Reviews frequently highlight the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. While some past issues with noise have been noted, the presence of attentive camp hosts and rangers who maintain a "strong presence throughout the campground" is appreciated by many, ensuring rules are generally enforced for a pleasant stay.

• Natural Beauty: Surrounded by the low foothills of the Calapooya Mountains and a mix of forests and grasslands, the campground offers picturesque scenery and a natural setting for relaxation and exploration.

• Wildlife Viewing: In addition to birds, the area provides habitat for black-tailed deer, upland game birds, and other species, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.

To learn more about Pine Meadows Campground or to make a reservation, you can use the following contact information:

Address: 75166 Cottage Grove Reservoir Rd, Cottage Grove, OR 97424, USA

Phone: (541) 942-8657 (This is typically the direct line for the campground or a local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office managing the site.)

Mobile Phone: +1 541-942-8657 (Same as above)

Reservations for Pine Meadows Campground are primarily handled through Recreation.gov. It is highly recommended to book your site in advance, especially for weekend and holiday stays.

For Oregonians seeking a comfortable, activity-rich, and conveniently located camping experience, Pine Meadows Campground on Cottage Grove Lake is an excellent choice. Its prime location in the southern Willamette Valley, just a short drive from Cottage Grove and accessible via I-5, makes it an easy and practical getaway for many residents across the state. This accessibility means less travel time and more time enjoying the outdoors, a significant perk for busy families and weekend adventurers.

What truly makes Pine Meadows suitable for locals is its comprehensive offering of amenities and recreational opportunities. The presence of flush toilets, hot showers, a dump station, and electric/water hookups at many sites provides a comfortable camping experience that balances convenience with a natural setting. The lake itself is a major draw, offering everything from swimming at a dedicated beach to excellent fishing for various species, and ample space for boating and paddleboarding. For Oregon's active families, the children's play area and the opportunities for bird watching further enhance the appeal, providing activities for all ages and interests.

While the strict no-alcohol policy, as enforced by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, is a distinct feature, it contributes to a generally quieter and more family-oriented environment that many locals appreciate for a peaceful escape. The commitment to maintaining clean facilities and the visible presence of camp hosts and rangers ensure a well-managed and safe camping experience. Pine Meadows Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a well-loved local institution that provides a welcoming, activity-packed, and beautifully situated base for Oregonians to connect with nature, enjoy the water, and create lasting memories right in their own beautiful backyard.

Pine Meadows Campground

75166 Cottage Grove Reservoir Rd, Cottage Grove, OR 97424, USA