Cottonwood Lake - Psicc (Co)

Star4.74
34 reviews
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Cottonwood Lake - Psicc (Co)
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly rate for a standard nonelectric site is $22 during the peak season (May 16 to October 11). No discounts, taxes, or incremental charges...
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Standard Site Fee$22.00
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
Total Campsite Fees$22.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
(661) 702-1420null

About this campground

Nestled on a gentle hillside and embraced by whispering aspen groves, Cottonwood Lake Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. Just a short stroll from the pristine waters of Cottonwood Lake, this beloved retreat invites you to cast your fishing line at dawn, paddle across mirror-like waters, or explore winding trails that reveal nature's secrets. Here, immaculate facilities meet untamed beauty, creating an unforgettable basecamp for your mountain adventures.
Cottonwood Lake Campground offers standard nonelectric campsites that are first-come, first-served. Some dispersed camping is permitted nearby when the main campground is full.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Cottonwood Lake into an aquatic playground, where sun-warmed days invite refreshing swims and lazy afternoon fishing sessions, while evenings bring that perfect mountain coolness for campfire stories. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflower blooms and crisp air, while autumn paints the aspens in brilliant golds—though visitors should note that some amenities may operate on limited schedules during these shoulder seasons.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of quaking aspens that dance in the mountain breeze, their leaves creating nature's own symphony while offering dappled shade and intimate camping spaces. The crystalline waters of Cottonwood Lake sparkle just beyond the trees, its cold, clear depths perfect for morning swims and afternoon paddling adventures. Framing this natural sanctuary, majestic mountain peaks rise against the horizon, painting an ever-changing backdrop that shifts from sunrise alpenglow to starlit silhouettes.
Geological Regionnull
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Campsite details

AccessibilityNo specific information provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are large enough to accommodate two two-person tents comfortably, according to user feedback.
Sites PrivacySites are described as providing moderate privacy due to young aspen trees separating them, though noise from neighbors is still audible.
Total Campsites24 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor shade and privacy, opt for sites surrounded by aspens. Arrive early on weekends to secure a spot.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highly recommend sites near aspens for better shade and privacy. Site 1 is noted for selling firewood.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Stay is limited to 14 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No specific details provided about group camping accommodations.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampground includes 24 sites arranged on a hillside, with some gravel surfaces and designated tent pads. Aspens provide shade and separation.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 16 to October 11 for reservations; first-come, first-served season starts June 20 and ends October 11.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be paid by scanning the QR code through the Recreation.gov mobile app. Users must download the app prior to arrival.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served during peak season (June 20 to October 11). Reviews suggest sites fill quickly, especially on weekends.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee applied. Late cancellations (from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) include additional fees such as forfeiting the first night's recreation use fee.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Cottonwood Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife viewing. The lake is a focal point for outdoor activities, and the surrounding area provides additional attractions like hiking trails and scenic views.
Hiking
The area offers numerous hiking trails with a variety of difficulty levels. Reviews mention that there are many hikes near the campground, making it a great destination for hiking enthusiasts.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Cottonwood Lake, with some reviews mentioning the types of fish caught and the quality of fishing. One user noted that the lake is best when freshly stocked with larger fish.
Swimming
Swimming is available at the lake, which is described as clear and refreshing but cold.
Boating
Boating activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at the lake. There is no specific mention of motorized boating or docking facilities.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes moose and mountain goats. Some users recommend keeping an eye out for wildlife near the lake and in the surrounding forest.
Winter Activities
No specific information provided about winter activities.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at Cottonwood Lake.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood available for sale from the camp host.
  • Quiet hours are null

Hazards

General hazardsReviews mention cold water temperatures in the lake, which may deter some swimmers. Remote location may result in limited cellular service.
Active alertsnull

Weather forecast

37
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 37%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 10 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

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Good to know

Peak season datesMay 16 to October 11
Trash and recyclingNo specific information provided about trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresLess than a mile from Cottonwood Lake, which is suitable for fishing, kayaking, and swimming.
Common complaintsSome campers noted gravel on the ground at campsites, limiting natural ground texture. Others complained about invasive mice issues.
HostReviews note friendly hosts who provide firewood for sale and assist with campsite availability.

Campground Map

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Driving directionsnull
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Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews

4.7
34 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Cottonwood Lake - Psicc (Co) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is frequently praised for its cleanliness, scenic views, and proximity to Cottonwood Lake. Visitors enjoy the fishing, hiking, and water activities, though some note that the sites can be close together with limited privacy.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean facilities, friendly and helpful camp hosts, proximity to the lake, and a variety of recreational opportunities like fishing, kayaking, and hiking.
Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

Lack of potable water, no cell phone service, and limited privacy between campsites. One user mentioned issues with campground hosts enforcing generator rules.
Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a site. Download the Recreation.gov app beforehand as cell service is unavailable. Bring enough water, as potable water is not reliably available.
Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during summer weekends and holidays. Several users noted that it is especially beautiful in the fall due to the aspen trees.
Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake is beautiful and is probably a little less than a mile down the road from the campground." – fanzbeans. "Absolutely stunning campground! The mountain views were unbeatable." – Colleen...
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Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #1 is noted for selling firewood. Campsites are generally described as clean and large enough for multiple tents. No specific reviews detail the best or worst sites by number.
Based on 34 reviews

Accessibility Features

No reviews specifically address accessibility features or experiences from users with disabilities.
Based on 34 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews address pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 34 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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