Located about two hours outside Eugene, just east off Highway 126, Cougar Reservoir offers the comforts of a hot tub with one caveat: Swimwear is entirely optional.
For the modest, the hot springs in Blue River can be a slightly shocking experience.
However, this feeling is part of what makes the trip unique to Oregon, Outdoor Program Resource Room Coordinator Ahsa Jensen said. Jensen first visited the hot springs on a program trip but said the nudity didn’t make her uncomfortable.
Sophomore Matt Moore, who has been to the hot springs six times, was also prepared for the nudity. He said it made for an interesting experience.
“I guess you just have to expect it,” he said. “And it makes for funny stories.”
One of Moore’s favorite stories about the hot springs was when two unknown men popped out of the shadows and surprised their group.
“You should have seen their faces,” he said. “He was harmless, but it was just hilarious nonetheless.”
The hot springs also give visitors the chance to meet many different personalities.
“The people are really friendly,” Jensen said. “They are all into relaxing and enjoying the natural environment.”
Jensen said she enjoys going to the hot springs because of the great atmosphere.
“It’s an awesome place to just sit and relax,” she said.
Moore shared similar sentiments.
“It’s always nice to go during the cold winter and let your muscles relax,” he said.
Unlike other hot springs, Cougar’s paths and changing facilities are made to look like they are natural. A small stream cascades into the four steaming pools, cooling them. Flat rocks surround each pool and are great for leaning against or sitting on. Jensen said recent renovations to the hot springs were inclusive of nature and don’t detract from the natural environment.
The springs are close enough to Eugene that one can make the trip in a day, but far enough away to feel like a vacation. In addition, they are relatively inexpensive.
“At a lot of other hot springs you pay, like, 12 bucks for a half-hour,” Jensen said. “These ones are free.”
The springs are about a 10-minute hike into the woods, allowing for a private experience year-round. Other area hot springs, like McCredie in Oakridge, are located closer to the road.
“Simply put, it is the definition of Oregon,” Moore said. “The Cougar Hot Springs are laid back, outdoors, enjoyable and a great place to get away for a couple hours.”