Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Star4.59
102 reviews
PO Box 32, Wasco, Oregon, 97065, United States
Scenic ViewsStargazing

Quick Facts

617 ft

Price

$10 - $58/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Nov. 31 closes.

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Oregon State Park site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026
Cottonwood Canyon State Park
$10.00 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Tent camping fees start at $10 per night. Cabins range from $45 to $58 per night, depending on whether pets are allowed. An extra vehicle incurs a $7...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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

4.59

Top-Rated

Based on 102 reviews

307 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioussites

"User reviews for Cottonwood Canyon are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's cleanliness, thoughtful design, and variety of activities. Common themes include the park's stunning scenery, well-maintained facilities, and opportunities for stargazing and outdoor recreation."

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Campground Map

PO Box 32, Wasco, Oregon, 97065, United States

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

PO Box 32, Wasco, Oregon, 97065, United States

Nearby supplies
Amenities available in Condon to the south and Wasco in the north, with the little country store in Wasco having a butcher shop with excellent local beef.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Summer brings intense desert heat and dramatic winds that sculpt the landscape and whisper ancient stories through the canyons. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with snow occasionally dusting the sagebrush and rim rocks. But it's spring that truly enchants visitors, when desert wildflowers paint the hillsides in unexpected bursts of color and temperatures invite long days of exploration.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5

Spring noted for comfortable temps and blooming wildflowers; excellent season for visits.

Planning Tips

  • Operating Season: Nov. 31 closes.
  • Current Alerts: Fire bans are imposed mid-spring through early fall.

About Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Where the high desert meets the John Day River, Cottonwood Canyon State Park unfolds as a hidden gem of Eastern Oregon. This remote sanctuary offers adventurers a choice between primitive campsites under endless skies, cozy cabins nestled in the canyon, and spacious group camping areas perfect for gatherings. Miles of trails wind through dramatic landscapes where wildlife roams freely, and when darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a celestial theater that draws stargazers from across the Pacific Northwest.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers a variety of camping options, ranging from primitive tent sites to cabins. Group camping and hiker/biker camps are also available. The park balances basic accommodations with unique amenities like solar charging stations and sun shelters.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit
Seasonal Limit

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Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers diverse activities, including hiking, fishing, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The park features well-maintained trails along the John Day River and offers unique amenities like free bike and fishing pole rentals. The trails are suitable for various skill levels and provide opportunities for both relaxation and exploration.
Hiking
Fishing
Swimming
Biking
Boating
Wildlife viewing
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRattlesnakes are common; stay vigilant, especially near trails. Winds can be gusty, affecting tent setups.
Active AlertsFire bans are imposed mid-spring through early fall.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are standard in the area; details not provided.

Weather at Cottonwood Canyon State Park

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Reviews

From Booking Sources
4.6
102 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Cottonwood Canyon State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cottonwood Canyon are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's cleanliness, thoughtful design, and variety of activities. Common themes include the park's stunning scenery, well-maintained facilities, and opportunities for stargazing and outdoor recreation.
Review Summaries
Based on 102 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praise the park’s clean facilities, spacious campsites, and free amenities like fishing pole and bike rentals. The natural beauty and tranquility of the park are also recurring...
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Based on 102 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention challenges like high winds, lack of cell phone reception, and the need for additional shade structures. The presence of invasive plants like tumbleweeds and occasional rattlesnakes...
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Based on 102 reviews
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Last updated March 28, 2026
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Cottonwood Canyon State Park