Cottonwood Campground
3.41119 reviews17645 Hwy. 160, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Cottonwood Campground
$36.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$36.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$36.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees are $36 per night with an additional reservation fee of $8.25. Fees include one vehicle. Extra vehicles incur additional charges.
About this campground
Discover the peaceful embrace of Cottonwood Campground, where spacious tent and RV sites nestle among the winding waterways of the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Though sites come without hookups, they offer something far more valuable: direct access to a watery wonderland perfect for casting a line, taking a refreshing swim, or spotting elusive river otters at play. Each generously sized site offers its own character, from sun-drenched spots to shaded retreats beneath towering cottonwoods.
Cottonwood Campground offers tent and RV camping but lacks hookups for utilities. Walk-in sites and group sites are also available. Accessibility-adjusted sites are a feature.
Historical SignificanceYour camping adventure unfolds on storied ground once roamed by Native American tribes and later transformed by California's colorful past. The island bears the name of Sam Brannan, the charismatic entrepreneur who became California's first millionaire during the Gold Rush era and helped establish Mormon settlements throughout the region. Before Brannan's time, fur trappers navigated these same waterways, trading pelts and tales of adventure in this lush delta wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsThe Delta's gentle climate makes Cottonwood a year-round destination. Winter brings crisp mornings in the mid-40s warming to comfortable afternoons around 55°F—perfect for hiking without breaking a sweat. Summer transforms the landscape into a sun-lover's paradise, with temperatures dancing between 75-95°F. Even when heat waves push the mercury past 100°F, the famous Delta breeze sweeps in like nature's air conditioning, keeping evenings pleasantly cool for campfire gatherings.
ElevationPerched at a modest 40 feet above sea level, the campground rises just enough above the surrounding delta marshes to keep your feet dry while maintaining intimate connections to the wetland ecosystem below. This gentle elevation provides the perfect vantage point for watching morning mist rise from the sloughs and evening light paint the marshlands gold.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where ancient cottonwoods and graceful willows frame ever-changing views of marshes, sloughs, and winding levees. This riparian paradise serves as nature's grand hotel for an impressive cast of wildlife—from playful river otters sliding down muddy banks to industrious beavers engineering their aquatic homes. Birdwatchers will find themselves in heaven with 76 species calling this delta home, their songs providing the soundtrack to your camping experience.
Geological RegionCottonwood Campground sits at the heart of the magnificent Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, where two great rivers merge to create California's most extensive estuary. This intricate maze of waterways, emerald islands, and protective levees forms one of the West Coast's most important wetland ecosystems—a 1,000-square-mile mosaic where freshwater meets civilization, creating countless opportunities for adventure and discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityCottonwood Campground offers accessible tent sites with paved activity areas, accessible tables, and designated parking. Accessible restrooms and routes to facilities are provided.
Sites SizeCampsites accommodate units up to 36 feet and allow a maximum of eight people per site. Walk-in sites are also available.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as spacious but lacking privacy due to minimal vegetation or barriers. "The campsites were huge. We appreciated that aspect."
Total Campsites102 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from the entrance for reduced road/bridge noise. Sites near sloughs offer water access but can be windy.
Best CampsitesSite #38 is highly rated for its shade and proximity to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is not explicitly stated, but standard California State Parks limits typically apply.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per campsite is 8 guests.
Groups
Group sites accommodate up to 30 people, with larger groups requiring multiple reservations. RVs up to 36 feet long are permitted.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCottonwood Campground is laid out with loops, offering walk-in sites, tent sites, and open areas for group camping.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; closure of some campgrounds occurs from October 15 to May 15 with first-come-first-serve availability.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available during the off-season (October 15 to May 15) on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are subject to ReserveCalifornia rules; penalties may apply. Contact the park directly for specifics.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cottonwood Campground provides access to fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Activities like boating and beach-related recreation are present within the Brannan Island area. The campground’s proximity to the Sacramento River enhances opportunities for water-based activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible, including the Brannan Island Loop Trail, a 3-mile paved loop connecting campgrounds and day-use facilities. "I also liked the hiking loop on-site," one user noted.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant, featuring species like striped bass, sturgeon, catfish, and perch. "Boy were we lucky or what! We caught so many fishes - catfish, stripers, and an orange fish which I don't know," said a reviewer.Swimming
Swimming areas, including Seven Mile Slough, are present. However, reviews highlight limited access and murky water conditions in certain spots. "The swim area wasn't easy to access, and it was a little murky," according to one user.Biking
Paved trails are available for biking. "There are lots of paved trails that would be perfect for biking," suggested one camper.Boating
The campground provides access to boating with a ten-lane launch ramp and nearby parking. Boat slips are currently non-functional, requiring boats to be anchored or pulled out each night.Wildlife viewing
The Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta’s diverse habitats support species such as river otters, mink, and Swainson’s hawks. "The isolated swimming and fishing slough was really refreshing and lush with wildlife," one reviewer stated.Winter Activities
Fishing is popular during winter months due to slower seasonal use. No other winter activities explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are possible but not explicitly highlighted.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings. Firewood is available for purchase onsite.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWind speeds can reach 25 mph or more, posing tent stability challenges. Harmful algae blooms in water may pose risks; caution is advised near water bodies.
Active alertsHarmful algae bloom warnings and swimming restrictions are periodically issued. Check park alerts before arrival.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 37%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15.4 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital is in Rio Vista (3 miles). Police services are accessible via local authorities in Rio Vista. The ranger station is within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season runs from May to October. Heavy usage is noted during these months.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal requires visitors to transport garbage to centralized bins in day-use areas, as the campground lacks dumpsters. "We had to drive our garbage bags to the day-use area to dump our garbage in the overflowing dumpster," said a user.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to waterways including Seven Mile Slough and Sacramento River, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of shade, noisy campers, rude staff, high winds, and limited restroom cleanliness during busy periods.
HostHosts are available onsite and manage firewood sales, trash collection, and general inquiries.
Campground Map
17645 Hwy. 160, Rio Vista, CA 94571
Driving directionsThe park is accessible via Highway 160, located a few miles south of Rio Vista in Sacramento County. It is surrounded by the Sacramento River to the west, Three Mile Slough to the southeast, and Seven Mile Slough to the northeast. Visitors should anticipate navigating through a maze of waterways and marshes.
Accessible via Highway 160. Roads are paved but may experience traffic during peak times. The park is open sunrise to sunset, but gates close one hour after sunset.Nearby places
Rio Vista (3 miles), Isleton (5 miles), and Walnut Grove (19 miles).
Nearby supplies
Rio Vista offers grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel within 3 miles. Additional options are available in Isleton (5 miles).
Camper Reviews
3.4
119 reviews
Cottonwood Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cottonwood Campground are mixed, with some praising its spacious sites and river access while others criticize maintenance issues and hostile staff interactions.
Review Summaries
Based on 119 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the spacious campsites, clean bathrooms, fishing opportunities, and convenient proximity to water activities. "Beautiful area; I went fishing and they have nice campsites," said one...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include lack of shade, high winds, poor maintenance, rude staff, and limited swimming access. "Bathrooms were a mess...only 2 of the toilets were working," a user stated.
Based on 119 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers, secure tents due to wind, and arrive early for shade-covered sites. "Definitely bring guylines for your tent," advised a camper.
Based on 119 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and summer months see high usage, leading to crowded facilities and maintenance challenges. Winter months offer quieter experiences, ideal for fishing. "Winter temperatures range from 45 to 55...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The camping spaces are near the water, and there is a great fishing pier," said one reviewer. Another added, "The wind pulled the stakes out of our tents and our sun canopy. Our canopy went flying...
Based on 119 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #38 is noted for its shade and water access. Walk-in sites are praised for cleanliness but face parking challenges.
Based on 119 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible tent campsites are well-reviewed, with users appreciating paved activity areas and accessible restrooms.
Based on 119 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but restricted to campsites and paved areas. "Pets must be kept inside tents or vehicles during nighttime hours," according to park rules.
Based on 119 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025