Cottonwood (Ca)
3.8420 reviewsCottonwood (Ca)
$30.00 - $140.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual sites are $34 during peak season and $30 during first-come, first-served season. Group sites are $100-$140 depending on capacity. Reservation fees are separate and range from $3 (in-person) to $9 (online). Additional fees apply for modifications and cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled along the picturesque southwest shore of Frenchman Lake, Cottonwood Springs Campground invites you to experience the perfect blend of comfort and wilderness. With 20 thoughtfully designed single-family campsites welcoming both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers, this hidden gem offers something for everyone. Two spacious group sites can host your family reunions or outdoor gatherings, comfortably accommodating up to 50 guests and 12 vehicles. Each site features paved parking for easy access, sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals under the stars, and campfire rings with grills where stories and s'mores come to life. Modern amenities including accessible flush toilets and fresh drinking water ensure your wilderness escape doesn't mean roughing it.
Cottonwood Springs Campground accommodates a wide range of camping preferences, with facilities for tent and RV camping, as well as group sites.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through the golden days of summer, Cottonwood Springs transforms into an outdoor paradise. May through August brings seemingly endless blue skies and perfectly dry conditions that make every day ideal for adventure. While the transitional seasons can surprise visitors with crisp, freezing temperatures during certain weeks, the moderate climate creates a refreshing escape from valley heat. The dry mountain air and clear skies offer spectacular stargazing opportunities, making summer nights as memorable as the sun-drenched days.
ElevationPerched at 5,700 feet above sea level, Cottonwood Springs offers a true high-country experience. This elevation creates a naturally cooler retreat during summer months, though visitors should prepare for the thinner air and potential for dramatic weather changes. The altitude enhances both sunrise and sunset views, painting the sky in brilliant colors that reflect off Frenchman Lake's pristine waters.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere desert meets mountain, Cottonwood Springs showcases nature's incredible diversity. This rare ecosystem weaves together hardy desert flora with towering pine forests, creating a landscape unlike anywhere else. Drought-resistant wildflowers burst with color among the sagebrush, while majestic pines provide cooling shade and fill the air with their distinctive fragrance. Frenchman Lake sparkles as the centerpiece of this natural amphitheater, its waters beckoning swimmers, anglers, and paddlers to explore. Whether you're watching eagles soar overhead or discovering hidden coves along the shoreline, the scenery constantly rewards those who take time to explore.
Geological RegionDiscover a land shaped by fire and time in the northeast corner of the Sierra Nevada. This fascinating geological crossroads tells an ancient story through its unique blend of desert and mountain landscapes. Evidence of the Earth's powerful forces surrounds you – from weathered lava flows that speak of volcanic fury to erosion patterns that reveal millennia of natural sculpting. The rugged terrain creates a dramatic backdrop where drought-adapted plants thrive alongside pine forests, demonstrating nature's remarkable ability to adapt and flourish. This dynamic landscape continues to evolve, making each visit a chance to witness geology in action.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets are provided, and at least one accessible fishing trail is available within the campground.
Sites SizeThe group sites are large enough to accommodate 25 to 50 people, depending on the site, with allowances for six to 12 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThe sites offer some degree of privacy thanks to the surrounding pine forest. Some users noted the campground is quieter than sites closer to Frenchman Lake.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the lake provide easier access for water activities, while others are quieter and shaded. Campsite 001 is ideal for serenity and hiking.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001 is noted for its quiet and proximity to the lake. Campsite 016 is praised for its cleanliness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Generally, campsites allow two vehicles, with additional fees for extra vehicles.
Groups
Group site B accommodates up to 25 guests and six vehicles, while Group site D accommodates up to 50 guests and 12 vehicles. Both sites require reservations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are laid out in loops, each equipped with paved parking, tables, campfire rings, and grills. Group sites are larger and can accommodate multiple vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025, reservable until August 31, 2025. First-come, first-served season runs from September 1-28, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov, via app, through the contact center, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability during the season from September 1-28, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. Changes incur a $10 fee if altering dates entirely outside the original reservation period.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities, primarily centered around nearby Frenchman Lake. Activities include camping, fishing, swimming, boating, wildlife viewing, and hiking. Visitors also have access to the extensive road system in Plumas National Forest for exploration.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails near Frenchman Lake, and within the campground itself, there is an accessible fishing trail. One user noted enjoying a hike to the lake, which is approximately half a mile away from the campsite.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity, with an accessible fishing trail available on-site. Frenchman Lake supports a variety of fish species and is popular among anglers.Swimming
Swimming is available at Frenchman Lake, though no specific designated swimming areas within the campground are mentioned.Boating
Boating activities such as water skiing and jet skiing are popular at Frenchman Lake, which spans 1,580 acres. The Lunker Point Boat Launch Facility is located two miles from the campground.Wildlife viewing
The campground and surrounding areas offer opportunities for wildlife viewing. The area is home to diverse ecosystems with drought-tolerant plants coexisting with pine forests.Water Sports
Water sports include water skiing, jet skiing, and general boating on Frenchman Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings. Firewood is available within the campground.
- Quiet hours are set for 10:00 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears inhabit the area, and campers are advised to be bear-aware. Fire damage near the entrance of the campground is visible.
Active alertsNo emergency warnings were mentioned.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Slight rain showers
Precipitation: 2%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 48%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Very Light Rain - (2.00% chance)
Slight drizzle possible
Slight rain showers
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 can be accessed in nearby towns like Chilcoot and Loyalton. Specific facilities such as hospitals, police stations, or ranger stations are not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingNot mentioned specifically, but general campground cleanliness is noted by users, indicating some waste facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresFrenchman Lake is approximately 0.5 miles away via trail or a short drive, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
Common complaintsComplaints include issues with noise control, with loud music and unruly campers reported. Flush toilets are sometimes out of order, and water availability is inconsistent.
HostHosts are described as varying in effectiveness, with some praised for politeness while others are criticized for not enforcing quiet hours.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Reno, Nevada, travel north on Highway 395, then merge onto Highway 70 west and travel 5 miles to Chilcoot. Turn north on Highway 284 and continue for 8 miles to the Frenchman Lake Reservoir, then turn left before crossing the dam and travel 2.5 miles to the Cottonwood Campground.
The campground is accessible primarily via paved roads. Highway 284 leads directly to Frenchman Lake Reservoir, and the campground is reached by turning left before crossing the dam and driving 2.5 miles. No mentions of seasonal closures or challenging terrain were provided.Nearby places
Chilcoot (8 miles) and Loyalton (distance unspecified).
Nearby supplies
The towns of Chilcoot and Loyalton offer stores and services, including Goodwin's General Store in Chilcoot, which sells groceries, camping supplies, gas, and has a coffee/bakery shop.
Camper Reviews
3.8
20 reviews
Cottonwood (Ca) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Cottonwood Springs Campground highlight its scenic beauty, well-maintained facilities, and quiet atmosphere. However, concerns include inconsistent water availability, lack of attention from camp hosts, and issues with noisy campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
"Bathrooms were well taken care of" and "clean water available at many locations." The campground's proximity to Frenchman Lake and the shade provided by pine trees are frequently praised.
Based on 20 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include showers being out of order for years, noise violations going unenforced, and occasional issues with water availability. One user noted, "No showers have been fixed at this...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra water and supplies, as water availability can be inconsistent. Consider driving to neighboring campgrounds for showers. For a quieter experience, avoid weekends when the campground tends...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summers are generally busy with mixed reviews about noise and enforcement of quiet hours. Winter data is sparse, but no winter-specific activities are noted.
Based on 20 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice and quiet," said one reviewer. Another noted, "Great shade from the pine trees and the fire pits were clean." A user mentioned, "The camp hosts cannot control behavior, but these hosts did not...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 007 was mentioned by a user as being affected by fire damage. Site 016 received positive comments about cleanliness. Site 019 was noted for having water supply issues while another on the same...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
An accessible fishing trail is available, but no other specific reviews address accessibility for campers with disabilities.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet-related policies or experiences are available.
Based on 20 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025