Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground
4.437 reviewsForest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR
Cottonwood Recreation Area Campground
$2.00 - $6.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
$6 per night for single units; $2 per night for extra vehicles.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this 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.
Weather and SeasonsPerched 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.
ElevationAt 6,100 feet above sea level, Cottonwood Recreation Area offers that perfect high-country experience where the air is crisp, the stars seem close enough to touch, and afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with dramatic flair. This elevation creates a refreshing escape from summer heat, though wise campers pack layers for those cool mountain evenings when temperatures can dip surprisingly low.
Natural Features and SceneryNature puts on a spectacular show at Cottonwood, where groves of quaking Aspens transform into rivers of gold each autumn, their leaves trembling like nature's own wind chimes. The resident conifers stand as sentinels, offering dappled shade and filling the air with their distinctive pine perfume. Lucky visitors might spot graceful deer browsing at dawn or catch sight of a black bear foraging in the distance. The jewel of the area, Cottonwood Meadows Lake, mirrors the sky and surrounding forest, creating postcard-perfect reflections that inspire photographers and painters alike.
Geological RegionTucked into the southeast corner of the magnificent Fremont-Winema National Forest, Cottonwood showcases the diverse ecology of Oregon's high country. This remarkable landscape tells the story of volcanic origins and glacial sculpting, where Ponderosa pines stretch skyward from volcanic soils, White firs cluster in protected draws, and ancient Aspens mark the presence of year-round water sources. The forest here represents a unique transition zone where the arid Great Basin meets the moisture-loving Cascade species, creating an unusually rich tapestry of plant and animal life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are available, and the campground sites are generally described as clean and accessible for individuals with mobility limitations.
Sites SizeThe campground offers a mix of sites, including standard campsites close to the lake and more secluded sites in Cougar Loop away from the water.
Sites PrivacySites are described as well-separated, offering solitude and privacy to campers.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakefront sites for proximity to Cottonwood Meadows Lake; sites in Cougar Loop offer more solitude.
Best CampsitesLakefront sites are popular for mooring boats and scenic views.
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.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Allowed guests per site not specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutCampground loops around Cottonwood Meadows Lake; Cougar Loop offers forested area away from the water.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally June 1 - October 15, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNot reservable online or via phone; first-come-first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis only.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations; cancellation details not applicable.
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
Two hiking trails are available: Cottonwood Meadows Lake trail (2 miles) and Cottonwood trail (4 miles). These trails support foot, horse, and mountain bike usage.Fishing
Fishing is available in Cottonwood Meadows Lake, which is stocked with rainbow and Brook trout. Native Redband trout can also be found.Biking
Trails support mountain biking and offer suitable terrain for riders of various skill levels.Boating
Boating is restricted to non-motorized and electric motor boats. The lake includes a boat ramp and carry-down access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as deer, ducks, and black bears are commonly sighted, providing a rich environment for observing nature.Winter Activities
Snow may be present during the offseason, and freezing temperatures are common.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like canoeing and kayaking are supported, although specific mentions are limited.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings provided at sites; no specific fire restrictions mentioned.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bear sightings reported; caution for mosquitoes, especially in forested areas.
Active alertsSeasonal reduced services; potable water unavailable during off-season.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.5 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
Lakeview Emergency Services: approximately 45 minutes away
Good to know
Peak season datesJune through October
Trash and recyclingThis is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility, requiring campers to manage their own waste and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Cottonwood Meadows Lake, which permits non-motorized and electric boats. Two day-use areas and a boat launch available.
Common complaintsMosquito presence noted in user reviews; occasional cold lodge temperatures mentioned during off-season.
HostSeasonal camp host available (specific contact information not provided).
Campground Map
Forest Rt. 3870, Lakeview, OR
Driving directionsFrom Lakeview, OR, travel west on Oregon Highway 140 toward Bly, then turn right on Forest Service Road 3870. Follow signs to the campground.
Road is paved until it branches into gravel. Gravel section has minor potholes.Nearby places
Lakeview: 45 minutes northwest (21.7 miles)
Nearby supplies
Lakeview: 45 minutes northwest, supplies including groceries and fuel available.
Camper Reviews
4.4
7 reviews
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 7 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...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
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...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend being prepared for cold weather due to the elevation of 6,100 feet and packing bug spray to deal with mosquitoes. One user specifically advised keeping food secure to avoid attracting...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate the campground is most enjoyable during the summer and early fall when temperatures are warmer and the lake is accessible for boating and fishing. During colder months, users noted...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'A very nice place. Road is paved all the way in to where it branches between the picnic areas and campgrounds.' (Ken Barber) 2. 'Always clean and always peaceful.' (Matthew Goeres) 3. 'Mosquitoes...
Based on 7 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Cougar Loop is noted for being away from the water and offering solitude, while lakeside campsites provide direct access to Cottonwood Meadows Lake.
Based on 7 reviewsAccessibility Features
Camping sites near the main campground are wheelchair accessible, and vault toilets are noted to be clean and suitable for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 7 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but users are advised to secure food to avoid attracting wildlife.
Based on 7 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025