Yes it is open and VERY popular...if you go up the FS road on the south side of cougar, there is TONS of dispersed camping...minus the toilets, but if you like late noise makers, children crying constantly, and having ZERO privacy then Merrill lake is your jam!
Yes, just camped there June 29th. Pack in/out. Limited bathroom servicing. Posted signs say open April 15-Nov 15, but I'm sure closures did impact.
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