Cottonwood Group Campsite
4.179 reviews671 North Washington, Afton, WY 83110, USA
Cottonwood Group Campsite
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$45.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for the group site during the peak season is $45. Additional fees may apply for reservation services, changes, or cancellations.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of western Wyoming's pristine wilderness, Cottonwood Group Campsite offers an enchanting escape where the melodic waters of North Fork Creek weave through towering pines and whispering aspens. Just below the majestic Salt River Pass and moments from the crystalline waters of Cottonwood Lake, this secluded haven invites groups to gather beneath nature's cathedral of emerald canopies and star-filled skies.
The Cottonwood Group Campsite primarily serves as a group tent camping area, with a focus on accommodating up to 25 guests. No specialized accommodations, such as cabins or RV-specific setups, are provided.
Weather and SeasonsFrom late spring through early fall, Cottonwood transforms into an outdoor paradise perfect for adventurers and nature seekers. While winter brings a blanket of moderate snow and crisp mountain air, the campground truly comes alive during its reservable season when warm days give way to cool, comfortable nights ideal for campfire gatherings and sleeping under the stars.
ElevationElevation data is not provided.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a natural wonderland where towering pines and quaking aspens create intimate groves of shade and solitude. North Fork Creek serves as the campground's gentle soundtrack, its pristine waters dancing over smooth stones while painting the landscape with ribbons of silver. Come summer, the forest floor erupts in a kaleidoscope of wildflowers—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and columbine—transforming the campground into a photographer's dream and nature lover's paradise.
Geological RegionPerched in the rugged forests of western Wyoming, this mountain sanctuary sits gracefully below the dramatic Salt River Pass, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking beauty. The surrounding terrain showcases nature's artistry through dense stands of evergreen pines interspersed with shimmering aspen groves, while nearby Cottonwood Lake reflects the sky like a perfect mirror. Summer brings an explosion of alpine wildflowers that carpet the forest floor, creating a living tapestry that changes with each passing week.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not mentioned.
Sites SizeSites accommodate up to 25 guests. Vehicle size is limited to van-sized or smaller.
Sites PrivacyThe campsite is surrounded by dense stands of pines and aspens offering shade and some privacy, as noted in the description: "Its banks and the surrounding canyon are forested by dense stands of pines and aspens, which offer excellent shade and privacy."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesThe group site is located at the far northern edge of the east loop, just past the water pump. It accommodates 25 guests and is suitable for groups camping in tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check in times were not explicitly mentioned.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified in the authoritative sources.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 25 guests are allowed at the group site.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 25 guests and is most suitable for tent camping. It can allow two vehicles to park directly at the site, with six additional vehicles accommodated at the nearby day-use area.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes a west loop with horse corrals and an east loop with the group site located at its far northern edge.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 1, 2025, and closes October 31, 2025. Reservations are available starting June 26, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed through Recreation.gov. Additional fees apply for online, contact center, or in-person bookings.
Walk-in AvailabilitySingle-family sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made prior to the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Additional penalties may apply for cancellations less than 14 days before check-in.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities. Official sources highlight hiking, biking, horseback riding, and fishing opportunities. Water-based activities include boating and canoeing. Wildlife viewing and hunting are also mentioned.
Hiking
The campground features hiking trails suitable for various skill levels. According to official sources: "Hiking... trails are in the area." Additionally, Slide Lake is noted as a great hiking destination based on a user review. Chris Fowler commented, "Slide Lake was a great hike!"Fishing
Fishing opportunities include brook and cutthroat trout in Cottonwood Lake, as stated in the official description: "The lake offers... fishing for brook and cutthroat trout."Biking
Mountain biking trails are available in the vicinity of the campground, according to official sources: "Hiking, mountain biking... trails are in the area."Boating
Boating and canoeing are available for smaller craft on Cottonwood Lake. Official sources specify: "The lake offers great canoeing and boating for smaller craft."Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlighted activity, with sightings of moose, deer, and rabbits mentioned by users. Chris Fowler stated, "We saw a rabbit, a deer, and a moose."Winter Activities
Winter recreation activities are not explicitly mentioned.Water Sports
Water-based activities are limited to canoeing, boating, and fishing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed on-site but ensure firewood is obtained near the destination to prevent pest transmission.
- Quiet hours are at 10 PM, as confirmed by user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include the narrow gravel road leading to the campground and wildlife in the area. User reviews also warn of non-potable water and overcrowding during peak times.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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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
Nearest emergency services are likely located in Afton, Wyoming. Contact information for the local office is 307-886-5300.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1, 2025 to October 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are advised to bring garbage bags and manage their own trash. No recycling facilities are explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near Cottonwood Lake and features peaceful North Fork Creek flowing through it.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention issues with overcrowding during the day, unsanitary restrooms, and misuse of firewood resources (trees being hacked). Additionally, reservations may not be honored due to campsite occupation by unauthorized users.
HostOffice hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays. Hosts may not be present at certain times.
Campground Map
671 North Washington, Afton, WY 83110, USA
Driving directionsFrom Afton, Wyoming, take Highway 89 south approximately 7 miles to Smoot. After a half-mile look for directional signs to Cottonwood Lake Campground. The Forest boundary is about one mile up the access road, and the campground is 6 miles beyond that. Continue past the first loop of the campground, then turn left at the 'Y' intersection onto the east loop. The group site is at the far northern edge of this loop, just past the water pump.
The Cottonwood Lake area is accessed via a narrow gravel road. Some user reviews describe the road as "bumpy" and potentially challenging, especially during evening arrivals.Nearby places
Afton (7 miles, approximately 15 minutes), Smoot (0.5 miles, less than 5 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in Afton, Wyoming, which is approximately 7 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
9 reviews
Cottonwood Group Campsite is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for Cottonwood Group Campsite are varied, with users praising the scenic beauty, wildlife, and peace of the area but highlighting concerns about bathroom cleanliness, overcrowding, and reservation management.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the natural beauty, wildlife sightings, clean restrooms (as noted by some users), and peace at night. Jacob Earl described it as "a great little campground out of the way. So...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include dirty restrooms, overcrowding during the day, poorly managed reservations, and challenges with the gravel road leading to the site. Alondra Crutchfield stated, "Bathrooms...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors should prepare for limited amenities, including no cell service, and ensure they bring supplies such as garbage bags and potable water treatment equipment in case water availability...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight abundant wildflowers and wildlife, though some visitors find the site crowded during peak times. Late spring or early fall might provide a quieter experience.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We saw a rabbit, a deer, and a moose." - Chris Fowler. "The road up to the camping was very bumpy and took us quite a time by car." - Magnus Engström. "At 10:00 it was quiet time and beautiful,...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 in Loop COGC received negative feedback due to reservation mismanagement, with Megan N and Brent M reporting other campers occupying their reserved site illegally.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies or experiences are not mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025