Cottonwood (Tx)
4.50212 reviewsPO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, USA, 79834
Cottonwood (Tx)
$16.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual sites cost $16 per night during the peak season (November 1 - December 31, 2025), and the group tent-only area costs $60 per night. Entrance fees for Big Bend National Park are separate.
About this campground
Discover your desert sanctuary at Cottonwood Campground, where ancient cottonwood trees create a verdant refuge in Big Bend's southwestern wilderness. At 1,900 feet elevation, this tranquil retreat offers 30 individual sites and one group campsite, each thoughtfully positioned beneath nature's canopy. Here, the modern world fades away—no generators disturb the desert silence, no hookups tether you to civilization. Instead, you'll find the essentials for authentic desert camping: sturdy picnic tables, secure bear boxes, raised grills for evening cookouts, and clean pit toilets. Fresh drinking water flows from spigots throughout this remote haven, where stargazing becomes an nightly ritual and the desert's natural rhythms guide your days.
Cottonwood Campground offers primitive camping options suited for tents, small RVs, and group camping. It is entirely dry camping with no utility hookups, making it ideal for campers seeking a quiet and remote experience.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at the nearby Castolon Historic District, where a former military outpost now welcomes visitors as a fascinating interpretive center. This corner of Big Bend whispers stories of frontier soldiers, Mexican traders, and Native peoples who once traversed these borderlands. Follow the legendary Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to discover hidden historical gems scattered across the landscape—each adobe ruin and weathered foundation a testament to the generations who sought fortune, freedom, or simply survival in this unforgiving yet beautiful terrain.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the Chihuahuan Desert, where autumn and winter transform Cottonwood into a cool-weather paradise. As darkness falls, temperatures can plunge below freezing, creating crystalline mornings perfect for hot coffee and sunrise photography. But come mid-March, the desert awakens with fierce intensity—summer temperatures regularly soar past 100°F, turning the landscape into a shimmering expanse that tests even seasoned adventurers. Spring and fall offer fleeting windows of perfection, when wildflowers bloom and temperatures balance between extremes.
ElevationPerched at 1,900 feet above sea level, Cottonwood occupies a sweet spot in Big Bend's varied topography. This modest elevation creates a microclimate where desert floor meets cooler air currents, especially noticeable during autumn and winter nights when temperatures drop dramatically. The elevation provides just enough lift to catch cooling breezes while remaining low enough to explore the Rio Grande's riparian corridors without strenuous climbs.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an unexpected desert paradise where majestic cottonwood trees stretch their branches toward endless Texas skies. These verdant giants, nourished by their proximity to the legendary Rio Grande, create a rare riparian ecosystem that attracts an impressive array of birdlife—from brilliant vermillion flycatchers to elusive zone-tailed hawks. Just minutes away, the magnificent Santa Elena Canyon awaits, where sheer limestone walls rise 1,500 feet above the Rio Grande, creating one of North America's most spectacular river gorges. This natural amphitheater transforms with the light, painting shadows and highlights that photographers dream about.
Geological RegionWelcome to the heart of Big Bend country, where the Rio Grande carves its famous curve through ancient volcanic landscapes and limestone plateaus. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history, from fossil-rich sedimentary layers to dramatic igneous intrusions. The campground's cottonwood grove thrives in this unique convergence of desert and river ecosystems, creating an ecological crossroads where Chihuahuan Desert species mingle with riparian life. Santa Elena Canyon stands as the crown jewel of this geological theater, its towering walls revealing the slow, patient work of water against stone over countless millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the official sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeSites are described as level and spacious, with gravel or dirt parking pads. The group site is large enough for multiple tents and vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced, providing a decent level of privacy. The group site offers ample space for large groups.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites like 7, 5, or 13 for comfort. Avoid grassy areas during irrigation to prevent flooding and bugs.
Best CampsitesSite 7 is highly praised for shade and proximity to wildlife (owls). Site 5 is noted for its quiet location and shade. Site 13 offers partial shade and stargazing opportunities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is up to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Campsites allow a varying number of guests depending on size and regulations.
Groups
The group site is walk-in and tent-only, with vehicle parking restricted to an adjacent area. It is spacious and includes multiple bear boxes and grills for larger groups.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCottonwood Campground features a single loop layout with dirt/gravel parking spaces, picnic tables, and raised grills at each site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen November 1 through December 31 for peak season. Release periods follow a rolling 14-day window for reservations.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website or app, or through their contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific walk-up availability mentioned; reservations required and restricted to 14 days in advance.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual campsites can be canceled prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Group sites require cancellation 14 days prior to arrival to avoid penalties.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Cottonwood Campground is particularly popular among bird watchers due to its proximity to diverse ecosystems supporting rare and unique bird species. Hiking trails are located nearby, and the area is known for wildlife viewing and stargazing opportunities. The Santa Elena Canyon and Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive provide scenic views and additional recreational activities.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available near Cottonwood Campground, including the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, which is highly recommended by users for its stunning views.Boating
Boating permits for the Santa Elena Canyon are available at the nearby ranger station. The canyon offers excellent opportunities for boating enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of Cottonwood Campground, with frequent sightings of birds such as great horned owls, vermilion flycatchers, roadrunners, and occasional appearances by javelinas and bobcats.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Castolon Visitor Center nearby offers historical and educational exhibits about the area. Occasional ranger-led programs are held across the park.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not specifically mentioned, but the campground remains operational during colder months. Visitors are advised to bring extra blankets and warm sleeping bags as temperatures can drop significantly at night.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible in the nearby Rio Grande, especially for exploring Santa Elena Canyon.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No ground fires permitted. Charcoal may be used in raised grills provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly specified but no generators are allowed ensuring a peaceful environment.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as bears, bobcats, and javelinas frequent the area. Extreme heat in summer and flooding due to irrigation can occur. Coyotes may pose a threat to pets.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 are likely available in Marathon, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember 1 to December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingRecycling bins and animal-proof dumpsters are available at the campground. Trash disposal is emphasized due to wildlife such as javelinas and bobcats frequenting the area.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Rio Grande and Santa Elena Canyon, known for its stunning views and recreational activities like boating.
Common complaintsExtreme heat during summer. Lack of showers or dump stations. Occasional flood irrigation attracts bugs.
HostCampground hosts are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness. Specific host noted is Bonnie.
Campground Map
PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, USA, 79834
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 miles south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 miles to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn right at the intersection and go 13 miles west. Take a left at the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and drive 23 miles to Cottonwood Campground. Note: Old Maverick Road is an unpaved road that is very rough. GPS units may send you down that road. Do not take it unless you have four-wheel drive and high clearance.
Road access is paved until the campground except for Old Maverick Road, which is unpaved and very rough. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for that road.Nearby places
Marathon: Approximately 66 miles and 1.5-hour drive
Fort Stockton: Roughly 130 miles and a 2.5-hour drive.
Nearby supplies
A small store up the hill at Castolon sells limited groceries, ice, and cold drinks. Larger grocery stores and fuel are available in Marathon, approximately 66 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
212 reviews
Cottonwood (Tx) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of vault toilets, the peaceful and remote atmosphere, and excellent opportunities for bird watching and stargazing. However, the lack of hookups, extreme heat during summer months, and occasional issues with flood irrigation and bugs are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 212 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews praise the quiet and remote setting, clean facilities, abundant shade, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Vault toilets were frequently described as 'spotlessly clean,' and many...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include lack of cell service, extreme heat during summer months, flood irrigation causing wet tent areas, and bug infestations such as gnats and black flies. Some users also mentioned the...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend choosing shaded sites for better comfort, particularly sites like #7 and #13. Bringing extra water and supplies is advised due to the remote location. A red headlamp is suggested...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter months are highly recommended for camping due to cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. Summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures over 100°F, making camping less comfortable.
Based on 212 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Vault toilets were spotlessly clean and odor-free.' - 'The peace of this place restored us.' - 'Great horned owls kept us entertained.' - 'Great place for stargazing, but gnats were unmerciful.'
Based on 212 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #7 is noted for its excellent shade and owl sightings. Site #13 has partial shade and is close to the bathrooms. Site #24 is close to the river and offers views of Mexico. The group site is...
Based on 212 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Specific accessibility features were not mentioned, but the campground overall is described as level and clean.
Based on 212 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Wildlife such as coyotes and javelinas can pose a threat to pets, so caution is advised.
Based on 212 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025