Cottonwood Point
4.23337 reviews2105 N. PAWNEE
Cottonwood Point
$0.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$70.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range by season and site type. Standard electric sites cost $18-$23 during peak season and $16-$23 during non-peak season. Standard non-electric sites are $0-$10. Group electric sites range $70-$100 depending on season. Group picnic areas cost $20.
About this campground
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Marion Reservoir, Cottonwood Point beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its sprawling, tree-canopied sites that offer both adventure and respite. This haven combines the serenity of lakeside camping with exceptional wildlife watching opportunities, where deer graze at dawn and birds fill the air with their morning songs. Whether you're casting a line at sunrise or exploring wooded trails, this spacious campground serves as your gateway to countless recreational pursuits and breathtaking Kansas sunsets.
Cottonwood Point accommodates a variety of camping styles, including individual sites, group camping areas, and picnic shelters. Sites come with full hookups, water/electric hookups, or nonelectric options.
Historical SignificanceBeyond the natural splendor lies a region steeped in prairie heritage and artistic spirit. The nearby communities of Marion and Hillsboro celebrate this legacy through vibrant Art and Craft shows that showcase local artisans and traditions. These events offer campers a chance to connect with the area's cultural heartbeat, discovering handmade treasures and stories passed down through generations of Kansas craftspeople.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic Kansas climate where each season paints the landscape with its own palette. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for swimming and boating, while spring and fall offer mild temperatures ideal for hiking and wildlife photography. The prairie winds add character to your camping experience, rustling through the cottonwoods and bringing the occasional refreshing rain shower that leaves the air crisp and clean. Peak camping season unveils the reservoir at its finest, with comfortable temperatures that invite you to explore from dawn to dusk.
ElevationSet within the gently rolling terrain of the Kansas prairie, the campground's modest elevation creates an intimate connection with the surrounding landscape.
Natural Features and ScenerySince its completion in 1968, Marion Reservoir has transformed the prairie into an outdoor paradise where 6,200 acres of sparkling water meet 6,000 acres of pristine public lands. This stunning marriage of land and water creates endless vistas where the sky seems to stretch forever, reflected perfectly in the reservoir's mirror-like surface. Ancient cottonwoods provide natural shade canopies, while the shoreline reveals hidden coves and peaceful fishing spots waiting to be discovered.
Geological RegionCottonwood Point sits at the heart of the magnificent Kansas prairie ecosystem, where endless grasslands meet the expansive waters of Marion Reservoir. This unique convergence creates a diverse habitat where prairie meets shoreline, supporting an intricate tapestry of wildlife and vegetation. The 6,200-acre reservoir, embraced by 6,000 acres of rolling public lands, showcases the subtle beauty of the Great Plains—a landscape that reveals its magic to those who take time to explore its gentle contours and hidden treasures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible amenities include boat ramps, drinking water, grills, parking, trails, and shelters.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, offering ample room for setups such as large RVs or groups.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced providing privacy, but some loops are described as more open with less seclusion.
Total Campsites164 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite-specific advice includes bringing leveling blocks for unlevel sites, avoiding algae bloom periods, and selecting waterfront sites for scenic experiences.
Best CampsitesUsers favor campsites near water for fishing and views. Site #107 and #30 are particularly highlighted for space and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Three tents or two tents and one RV permitted per campsite.
Groups
Group camping and picnic areas are available, accommodating larger gatherings with nearby shelters.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into several loops with spacious and shaded sites. User reviews praise the layout for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from April 1st through December 31st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be first-come-first-serve (not reservable), evident from reviews mentioning challenges in securing such sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations permitted before arrival with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night’s use fee in addition to the cancellation fee.
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
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Popular activities at Cottonwood Point include camping, boating, fishing, hunting, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The campground provides direct access to Marion Reservoir, offering recreational opportunities both on land and water.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are available, including the Willow Walk Nature Trail which is popular among wildlife enthusiasts.Fishing
Fishing opportunities abound with channel catfish, walleye, white bass, and wipers commonly caught. Anglers appreciate the availability of a boat ramp for lake access.Swimming
Swimming areas are accessible, although users have noted occasional blue-green algae warnings impacting water activities.Biking
Biking is a common activity, with trails offering scenic views through the forest around the lake.Boating
Campers enjoy boating activities supported by two accessible boat ramps. Some users have faced challenges with dock access during flooding.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, with frequent sightings of white-tailed deer, pelicans, raccoons, and various waterfowl.Winter Activities
Winter activities mentioned include hiking and observing wildlife during colder months.Water Sports
Opportunities include kayaking and fishing, with some areas described as suitable for launching kayaks directly from sites.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed, but pits may require cleaning upon arrival based on user reviews.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsReviews mention blue-green algae warnings, hazardous winds, and mosquito presence near wooded areas.
Active alertsActive alerts include algae blooms and flooding-related closures (mentioned in user reviews).
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 57%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Emergency services nearest to Marion Reservoir include hospitals, police stations, and possibly ranger stations in Marion and Hillsboro. Specific facilities not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1, 2025 - October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but complaints about raccoons accessing trash and occasional maintenance lapses have been noted.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located directly on Marion Reservoir’s shoreline with access to two boat ramps between sites 62 and 67.
Common complaints"Grass needed mowing," "spider webs on shelters," and "unmowed areas" repeatedly mentioned in reviews. Additional concerns include lack of camp hosts and unmaintained security measures.
HostPreviously had camp hosts, but now host-less according to recent reviews. "Camp hosts John and Cheryl are so Friendly and helpful. We will miss them."
Campground Map
2105 N. PAWNEE
Driving directionsFrom Marion, Kansas, take Highway 56 for about 4 miles. Turn north on Old Mill Road and continue almost three miles, then follow signs to the campground.
Accessible via paved roads, well-maintained highways, and clear signage. Information about seasonal closures or challenging terrain not provided.Nearby places
Hillsboro (~12 miles), Marion (~4 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies for groceries, camping essentials, and fuel are available in the nearby communities of Marion (~4 miles) and Hillsboro (~12 miles).
Camper Reviews
4.2
337 reviews
Cottonwood Point is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight Cottonwood Point as a peaceful and scenic campground with well-maintained sites and friendly staff. Frequent issues include maintenance lapses, invasive camp visitors, and occasional closures of restrooms and amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 337 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include spacious campsites, full hookups, lake views, clean facilities, and opportunities for fishing and wildlife watching. Visitors appreciate the peaceful ambiance and...
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Common Concerns
Commonly noted issues include unmaintained grass and weeds, lack of camp hosts, invasive behavior by strangers entering occupied campsites, and intermittent closures of restrooms and showers....
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing leveling blocks due to uneven sites, being prepared for blue-green algae warnings, and bringing insect repellent for mosquitoes near wooded areas.
Based on 337 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are marked as ideal times for camping due to moderate temperatures and fewer bugs. Summer experiences high mosquito presence and occasional water activity disruptions due to algae....
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Camper Quotes
1. 'Cottonwood Point is a beautiful campground. The campsites are full hookup and spacious, with covered picnic tables and grills.' - Jacob Welsh
2. 'Very quiet campground. We enjoyed the walks and...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #159 noted for its clean picnic table and grill. Site #37 experienced disturbances from intruders multiple times, leading to an early departure. Site #45 praised for its peaceful atmosphere and...
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Accessibility Features
Sites are generally accessible, with paved roads and accessible trails. Complaints have been raised about uneven pads and inaccessible facilities during closures.
Based on 337 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but leash rules have not always been enforced. Some users noted disturbances from unleashed dogs approaching their campsites.
Based on 337 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025