Cottonwood Group
4.5738 reviews74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA, USA, 92277
Cottonwood Group
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$55.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Tent Only Area, Non-electric sites available at $55 per night, valid through the year.
About this campground
Discover the raw beauty of the Colorado Desert, where expansive vistas and remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities await at every turn. This pristine desert landscape offers campers an authentic wilderness experience, with strategically positioned sites that serve as perfect vantage points for observing the desert's diverse inhabitants in their natural habitat.
Cottonwood Group Campground is exclusively designed for group tent camping. RVs and habitable trailers are prohibited.
Historical SignificanceThis ancient landscape has witnessed thousands of years of human history, from indigenous peoples who first called this desert home to the pioneers and prospectors who later traversed these lands. The area remains a testament to the enduring relationship between humans and the desert environment.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the desert's dramatic seasonal transitions, from mild winter days perfect for hiking to warm summer nights ideal for stargazing. Spring brings wildflower blooms that transform the landscape, while autumn offers comfortable temperatures and crystal-clear skies.
ElevationSituated in the low desert region, the gentle elevation provides sweeping panoramic views across the desert floor while maintaining easy accessibility for all visitors. The terrain offers both intimate desert experiences and grand vistas that stretch to distant mountain ranges.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Colorado Desert reveals its subtle beauty through vast expanses of creosote and brittlebush, punctuated by dramatic rock formations and desert washes. This seemingly sparse landscape comes alive with hidden treasures - from blooming cacti to ancient Joshua trees marking the transition zones, creating a photographer's paradise at golden hour.
Geological RegionNestled within the Colorado Desert ecosystem, this remarkable region spans the southern reaches of Joshua Tree National Park into the heart of Southern California's desert country. The characteristic flat, open shrubland creates an immersive desert experience where the horizon seems endless and the night sky touches the earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not specifically detailed in the sources.
Sites SizeThe group campsites are described as spacious, accommodating multiple large tents. For example, Esther N (2021) noted that their site had space for 2 six-person tents and 1 two-person tent. Amrit S (2022) mentioned that the site could easily fit 15 people.
Sites PrivacyThe sites lack significant natural privacy due to limited vegetation. However, they are equipped with shade shelters that provide some coverage. Several reviews mention that the campground is quiet and secluded, especially during weekdays.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
The campground has three group sites with amenities such as picnic shelters, fire rings, and ample space for tents. These sites can accommodate groups of varying sizes, with reviews mentioning capacities ranging from 15 people to larger groups of 36.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonJanuary 1, 2025 opens end December 2025
Reservation PlatformsThrough recreational government structure
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation PolicyLate Cancellation fees $10.00 service fee forfeited first night usage cost cancellation defined 14-day window.
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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Cottonwood Group Campground offers a variety of activities, primarily focused on its natural surroundings. Stargazing and wildflower viewing are standout attractions, as the campground provides dark, uninterrupted night skies and early spring blooms. Several hiking trails originate at or near the campground, making it a good base for exploring the Colorado Desert.
Hiking
The campground serves as a starting point for several hiking trails, and additional trailheads are within a 1-2 hour drive. The trails cater to various experience levels, though specific trails and their details are not provided in the data.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Some user reviews suggest biking is possible in the area, though no specific trails or paths are detailed.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as coyotes, quail, and rattlesnakes have been frequently observed. One user stated, "Coyotes, rattles, and quail are easy to spot" (Javier T, 2021).Winter Activities
No activities specific to winter are detailed.Water Sports
There are no water sports available or mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
24-Hour Emergency Phone located at the Visitor Center.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described, but user reviews occasionally note issues with trash left by previous visitors, suggesting a need for better enforcement of Leave No Trace practices.
Campground Map
74485 National Park Dr, Twentynine Palms, CA, USA, 92277
Driving directionsTake Interstate 10 to the Mecca/Twentynine Palms exit and follow signs to Joshua Tree National Park. The exit is 25 miles east of Indio, California.
Accessible via Interstate 10 with signage directing visitors.Nearby places
Indio (25 miles), Twentynine Palms (null), Chiriaco (12 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies are not explicitly described in both authoritative and user-provided content
thus marked as null.
Camper Reviews
4.6
38 reviews
Cottonwood Group is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the campground for its cleanliness, spaciousness, and suitability for group camping. The dark skies for stargazing and the well-maintained facilities are consistent highlights. However, some users reported issues with squatters and disturbances at night, as well as occasional restroom cleanliness concerns during high-use periods.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
1. Clean and spacious facilities.
2. Excellent stargazing opportunities.
3. Well-maintained restrooms with running water.
4. Ample parking and tent space.
5. Shaded picnic areas and fire rings.
6....
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
1. Occasional issues with unauthorized visitors and noisy groups.
2. Restrooms becoming messy during peak times.
3. Lack of enforcement against disruptive behaviors after visitor center hours.
4....
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
1. Bring a dolly or cart to transport equipment, as parking is not directly adjacent to camp areas.
2. Carry extra firewood; one user mentioned going through six bundles during a December stay.
3....
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is most popular from October through May due to mild daytime temperatures (70-90°F) and cooler nights (40-60°F). Summer sees reduced activity due to extreme heat. Spring brings early...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Clean, beautiful campground and surrounding areas for hiking. Great place to disconnect from work and the city." - Mike C, 2020.
2. "The campground's dark skies are amazing for stargazing." -...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
1. Site G01: Spacious, clean, and well-maintained. Accommodates multiple tents.
2. Site G02: Praised for its ample space and clean facilities. Users appreciated the shaded picnic areas and fire...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly discussed in user reviews.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain leashed. Some users appreciated the pet-friendly policies, though no specific pet-related amenities were highlighted.
Based on 38 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025