Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Star4.43
17 reviews
Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,100 ft

Price

$2 - $6/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open seasonally June...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Lakeview Ranger District site

Official Website
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Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground
$2.00 - $6.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$6 per night for single units; $2 per night for extra vehicles.
Standard Site Fee$6.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 17 reviews

14 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanhiking

"User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, scenic lake views, and well-separated campsites. Some reviewers noted occasional cold weather and mosquito problems."

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Campground Map

Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR

Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR

Nearby places
Lakeview: 45 minutes northwest (21.7 miles)
Nearby supplies
Lakeview: 45 minutes northwest, supplies including groceries and fuel available.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Perched at 6,100 feet, Cottonwood experiences the full drama of mountain weather. Summer arrives fashionably late, typically unveiling snow-free camping from mid-June through mid-October. Even in July, evening temperatures invite cozy campfire gatherings, while autumn mornings may greet you with a delicate frost that transforms the meadow into a crystalline wonderland. Winter's embrace can arrive suddenly at this elevation, making shoulder seasons an adventure for the prepared traveler.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5
Top 3% in OR

Aspen groves turn 'rivers of gold' in autumn; reviewers highlight fall scenery as a standout.

Planning Tips

  • Peak Season: June through October. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally June 1 - October 15, weather dependent.
  • Current Alerts: Seasonal reduced services; potable water unavailable during off-season.

About Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Escape to Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground, a serene mountain retreat nestled 45 minutes northwest of Lakeview, Oregon. This intimate campground features 22 thoughtfully placed sites, including four secluded walk-in tent spots for those seeking a more primitive experience and a dedicated horse camp complete with corral facilities for equestrian adventurers. Towering Aspen trees dance alongside majestic Ponderosa pines and fragrant White firs, creating a natural canopy that filters the mountain sunlight. The nearby Cottonwood Meadows Lake, regularly stocked with feisty Rainbow and Brook trout, beckons anglers and nature lovers alike. From mid-June through mid-October, friendly seasonal hosts ensure your stay is comfortable with well-maintained vault toilets, fresh potable water, sturdy picnic tables, and established campfire rings where memories are made under star-filled skies.
The Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground supports a range of camping options, including walk-in tent camping, combined sites for RVs and tents, and a dedicated horse camp area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
No official check-in time specified.
Check-out
No official check-out time specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive days.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides access to numerous recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking. Cottonwood Meadows Lake serves as the primary attraction for water activities such as fishing and boating, while hiking trails nearby offer additional exploration opportunities.
Hiking
Fishing
Biking
Boating
Wildlife viewing
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBlack bear sightings reported; caution for mosquitoes, especially in forested areas.
Active AlertsSeasonal reduced services; potable water unavailable during off-season.

Weather at Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

From Booking Sources
4.4
17 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, peaceful atmosphere, scenic lake views, and well-separated campsites. Some reviewers noted occasional cold weather and mosquito problems.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews

What Campers Love

Users consistently praise the campground for its clean facilities, scenic surroundings, and accessibility. The lake and hiking trails are frequently mentioned as standout features. Reviews also note...
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Based on 17 reviews

Common Concerns

Mosquitoes were reported as an issue during some stays. Cold temperatures were noted by one reviewer, who described the lodge as being as cold inside as it was outside. Limited amenities, such as no...
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Based on 17 reviews
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Last updated March 8, 2026
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